Easy Mexican Tortilla Lasagna
This Mexican Tortilla Lasagna is a flavor-packed, cheesy, and hearty Tex-Mex twist on the classic Italian comfort food. Layers of tender tortillas, seasoned beef, black beans, corn, tomatoes, and melty cheese make this dish the ultimate crowd-pleaser. Whether you’re feeding a hungry family or bringing a dish to a potluck, this recipe is a guaranteed hit. And the best part? It’s quick to prep, easy to customize, and even better as leftovers!
Ingredients & What They Do
- 1 lb ground beef – Adds savory, meaty richness and forms the hearty base of the lasagna layers.
- 1 small onion, chopped – Brings mild sweetness and aromatic depth to the beef mixture.
- 3 cloves garlic, minced – Enhances the flavor with a bold, aromatic kick.
- 1 oz packet taco seasoning – Delivers classic Tex-Mex flavor with a perfect blend of chili, cumin, and paprika.
- 15 oz can black beans, drained & rinsed – Adds fiber, texture, and protein, balancing out the richness of the beef.
- 15 oz can corn, drained – Introduces subtle sweetness and a pleasant pop in every bite.
- 10 oz can diced tomatoes with green chilies – Infuses mild heat and acidity to cut through the richness.
- ½ cup salsa – Adds moisture, flavor, and zesty spice to the filling.
- 8 flour tortillas (8-inch) – Replaces lasagna noodles and creates the perfect soft, layered texture.
- 3 cups shredded Mexican cheese blend – Melts beautifully and adds a creamy, cheesy finish.
- ¼ cup chopped cilantro (optional) – Brings freshness and a pop of color as a garnish.
Customization Tip: Use pepper jack for added heat or swap in corn tortillas for a gluten-free version with a firmer bite.
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Preheat & Prep: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with cooking spray or butter.
- Cook the Beef Mixture: In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef and chopped onion until the beef is browned and the onion is soft (about 5–7 minutes). Drain excess fat.
- Add the minced garlic and sauté for another 1–2 minutes until fragrant.
- Stir in taco seasoning, black beans, corn, diced tomatoes with chilies, and salsa. Simmer the mixture for 5 minutes to blend the flavors.
- Assemble the Lasagna: Start by placing 2 tortillas at the bottom of your baking dish, overlapping slightly. Spread a layer of the beef mixture over the tortillas and top with 1 cup of shredded cheese.
- Repeat the layering process two more times: tortillas, beef mixture, cheese.
- Finish with a final layer of tortillas topped with the remaining cheese.
- Bake: Cover the dish with foil and bake for 25 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10–15 minutes until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown.
- Cool & Serve: Let the lasagna rest for 10 minutes before slicing. Garnish with chopped cilantro and serve warm.
Why You’ll Love This Mexican Tortilla Lasagna
- Easy to Make: No need to pre-cook noodles – tortillas save time and effort.
- Incredibly Versatile: Customize with your favorite protein, beans, cheese, or heat level.
- Family Favorite: A dish that’s cheesy, comforting, and kid-approved.
- Perfect for Leftovers: Tastes even better the next day, making it a great meal prep option.
Pro Tips for Perfect Results
- Drain everything well: Avoid soggy layers by draining the beans, corn, and tomatoes thoroughly.
- Let it rest before slicing: The lasagna will set up and slice cleanly if you wait 10 minutes after baking.
- Add spice if you like heat: Mix in chopped jalapeños or use a spicier salsa for more kick.
- Double the recipe: Make two pans and freeze one for a ready-made dinner on busy nights.
Serving Suggestions
Serve your Mexican Tortilla Lasagna with a side of Mexican rice, a scoop of guacamole, and a drizzle of sour cream. Add a fresh lime wedge and crispy tortilla chips to round out the meal. Pair with iced tea or a margarita for the ultimate Tex-Mex feast!