Get ready to embark on a culinary journey to Mexico with our irresistible Mexican Lasagna recipe. Bursting with vibrant flavors and layers of cheesy goodness, this dish is a surefire way to tantalize your taste buds and satisfy even the pickiest of eaters. With just 15 minutes of prep and 15 minutes to bake, this mouthwatering casserole is perfect for busy weeknights or casual gatherings with friends and family. Whether you’re a meat and potatoes enthusiast or a fan of bold and zesty flavors, this Mexican-inspired twist on a classic lasagna is guaranteed to become a new favorite in your recipe repertoire.
Ingredients:
- 1 pound lean ground beef
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1/2 small yellow onion, grated or finely chopped
- 2 teaspoons smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- 1 tablespoon New Mexico chile powder
- 1 teaspoon kosher salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 (14.5 oz) can fire-roasted diced tomatoes
- 1 (15 oz) can black beans, rinsed and drained
- 1 1/2 cups frozen sweet corn
- 1 (4 oz) can fire-roasted diced green chiles
- 1 (10 oz) can enchilada sauce (or homemade enchilada sauce)
- 12 8” large flour tortillas
- 8 ounces Pepperjack cheese, shredded
- 4 ounces Colby Jack cheese, shredded
- 6 oz can sliced olives, drained
- 2 scallions, finely chopped
- 2 tablespoons chopped cilantro
Instructions:
- Prepare the Beef Mixture: In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add ground beef and onion, cooking until beef is browned and onion is tender. Drain excess fat if necessary.
- Season the Beef: Stir in smoked paprika, cumin, New Mexico chile powder, kosher salt, and black pepper, ensuring the beef is evenly coated with the spices.
- Add Remaining Ingredients: Add fire-roasted diced tomatoes, black beans, frozen sweet corn, fire-roasted diced green chiles, and enchilada sauce to the skillet. Stir well to combine and simmer for 5-7 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.
- Layer the Lasagna: Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). In a 9×13 inch baking dish, spread a thin layer of the beef mixture on the bottom. Top with a layer of flour tortillas, overlapping as needed to cover the bottom of the dish.
- Add Cheese and Repeat: Sprinkle a layer of Pepperjack and Colby Jack cheese over the tortillas, followed by a layer of sliced olives, scallions, and cilantro. Repeat the layers until all ingredients are used, ending with a layer of cheese on top.
- Bake: Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 15 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 5-10 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Serve and Enjoy: Remove from the oven and let cool for a few minutes before slicing into squares. Serve hot and enjoy the delicious flavors of Mexican Lasagna!
Cook Notes and Variations:
- Vegetarian Option: Make this dish vegetarian-friendly by substituting the ground beef with plant-based meat alternatives or additional vegetables such as bell peppers, zucchini, or mushrooms.
- Spice Level: Adjust the heat level of the dish by increasing or decreasing the amount of chile powder and diced green chiles to suit your taste preferences.
- Topping Variations: Customize your Mexican Lasagna with your favorite toppings such as diced avocado, sour cream, salsa, or jalapeños for an extra kick of flavor.
Keto and Low-Carb Versions:
- To make a keto-friendly version of this recipe, substitute flour tortillas with low-carb tortillas or thinly sliced zucchini layers.
- Replace the canned enchilada sauce with a homemade keto-friendly version made from tomato sauce, chili powder, cumin, and garlic powder to reduce the carbohydrate content.
Experience the ultimate fusion of flavors with our Best Mexican Lasagna Ever recipe. From the savory spices of smoked paprika and cumin to the creamy richness of melted cheese, each layer of this delectable casserole is a symphony of taste sensations. Whether you’re hosting a casual dinner party or simply craving a hearty and satisfying meal, this Mexican-inspired twist on a classic lasagna is sure to impress. So gather your ingredients, preheat your oven, and get ready to indulge in a culinary adventure that will transport your taste buds south of the border.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):
- Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
- Yes, you can assemble the Mexican Lasagna ahead of time and refrigerate it overnight before baking. Simply cover the baking dish with plastic wrap or aluminum foil and store it in the refrigerator until ready to bake. Allow the lasagna to come to room temperature before baking as directed.
- How do I store leftovers?
- Leftover Mexican Lasagna can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Reheat individual portions in the microwave or oven until warmed through before serving.
- Can I freeze leftovers?
- Yes, you can freeze leftover Mexican Lasagna for future meals. Wrap individual portions in plastic wrap or aluminum foil and place them in a freezer-safe container or resealable plastic bag. Frozen lasagna will keep well for up to 2-3 months. To reheat, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and bake in the oven until heated through.
- Can I use different types of cheese?
- Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with different cheeses to customize the flavor of your Mexican Lasagna. Monterey Jack, cheddar, or Mexican blend cheese would all work well in this recipe.
- Can I add extra vegetables to the dish?
- Yes, you can add extra vegetables such as bell peppers, zucchini, or mushrooms to the beef mixture for added flavor and nutrition. Simply sauté the vegetables along with the ground beef until tender before assembling the lasagna.
- Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
- Yes, you can make gluten-free Mexican Lasagna by using gluten-free flour tortillas or corn tortillas instead of traditional flour tortillas. Be sure to check the labels of canned ingredients such as diced tomatoes and enchilada sauce to ensure they are gluten-free as well.
- Can I use ground turkey or chicken instead of ground beef?
- Absolutely! Ground turkey or chicken would make excellent substitutes for ground beef in this recipe. Just be sure to cook the meat thoroughly before adding the seasonings and other ingredients.
- How can I make this dish spicier?
- To increase the heat level of the dish, you can add extra diced green chiles, jalapeños, or a sprinkle of cayenne pepper to the beef mixture. Adjust the amount of chile powder to taste for a spicier kick.
- What can I serve with Mexican Lasagna?
- Mexican Lasagna pairs well with a variety of side dishes such as Spanish rice, refried beans, a crisp green salad, or homemade guacamole and chips. Choose your favorite accompaniments to complete the meal and enhance the flavors of the dish.
- Can I make individual portions of Mexican Lasagna?
- Yes, you can make individual portions of Mexican Lasagna by assembling the ingredients in individual ramekins or small baking dishes. Simply layer the ingredients as directed, adjusting the quantities to fit the size of the dishes, and bake until heated through and bubbly.