Taco Lasagna

why make this recipe

Taco Lasagna is a fun twist on traditional lasagna, combining all the flavors of your favorite tacos into a layered dish. It’s easy to make and perfect for feeding a crowd. With a blend of seasoned meat, beans, cheese, and salsa, this dish is both satisfying and delicious. It’s a great way to bring everyone together for a hearty meal that everyone will love.

how to make Taco Lasagna

Ingredients :

• 1 ½ pounds lean ground beef
• 1 cup green bell pepper, diced
• 1 cup onion, diced
• ¼ cup taco seasoning
• 2/3 cup water
• 1 (15 ounce) can black beans, drained and rinsed
• 1/8 cup chopped cilantro
• 1 1/2 cups thick salsa
• 9 taco size tortillas
• 1 (14.5 ounce) can refried beans
• 3 cups shredded Colby jack cheese

Directions :

1. Preheat the oven to 350 degrees F. Spray a 9×13 baking dish with non-stick cooking spray.
2. Heat a large skillet on medium-high heat and add the ground beef, green peppers, and onion. Cook until browned. Drain any extra fat.
3. Add in the taco seasoning and water, then let simmer on low for 1-2 minutes.
4. Stir in the salsa, black beans, and cilantro until well combined. Remove from heat.
5. Place two tortillas into the bottom of the baking dish. Cut one tortilla in half to cover any extra space.
6. Spread 1/3 of the refried beans on top of the tortillas.
7. Layer 1/3 of the taco meat mixture over the refried beans, followed by a thin layer of shredded cheese.
8. Add two more tortillas on top. Repeat with another layer of refried beans, meat mixture, and cheese.
9. Finish with two tortillas on top and the remaining shredded cheese.
10. Cover with aluminum foil and bake for 30 minutes or until hot and bubbly. Remove the foil for the last 5 minutes to brown the cheese.
11. Add your favorite toppings like tomatoes, olives, jalapenos, avocados, or sour cream, and serve!

how to serve Taco Lasagna

Taco Lasagna is best served hot straight from the oven. You can cut it into squares and plate it. Top each serving with fresh toppings like chopped tomatoes, sliced jalapenos, or a dollop of sour cream. This adds a nice touch and extra flavor, making your meal even more enjoyable.

how to store Taco Lasagna

To store Taco Lasagna, let it cool completely. Then, cover it tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil and place it in the refrigerator. It can be stored for up to 3-4 days. You can also freeze leftovers for up to 2-3 months. When ready to eat, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight and reheat in the oven or microwave.

tips to make Taco Lasagna

• Use lean ground beef to keep the dish healthier, but feel free to substitute with ground turkey or chicken if preferred.
• Make sure to drain the beans properly to avoid excess moisture in the lasagna.
• Customize the layers by adding your favorite ingredients, such as corn or different types of cheese.
• If you like it spicy, consider adding diced jalapenos or hot salsa to the meat mixture.

variation

You can make a vegetarian version of Taco Lasagna by omitting the ground beef and adding more beans, vegetables, or even tofu for added protein. You can also use flour tortillas instead of corn tortillas if desired.

FAQs

Q: Can I make Taco Lasagna ahead of time?
A: Yes, you can prepare it in advance. Assemble the layers and cover it in the fridge a day before baking. Just bake it when you’re ready to serve.

Q: Can I use a different type of cheese?
A: Absolutely! Feel free to use any cheese you like—cheddar, pepper jack, or even mozzarella can work well.

Q: Is Taco Lasagna gluten-free?
A: To make it gluten-free, use gluten-free tortillas and check the labels on other ingredients like taco seasoning and refried beans.