Mexican Lasagna – No Lasagna Noodles!

Mexican Lasagna – No Lasagna Noodles is a unique twist on traditional lasagna, combining the delicious flavors of Mexican cuisine with a simple, noodle-free layering technique. This recipe uses flour tortillas instead of pasta, resulting in a fun and flavorful dish that’s perfect for family dinners, potlucks, or any gathering. It’s hearty, cheesy, and packed with savory ingredients that are sure to please everyone at the table.

Why Make This Recipe

There are several reasons to whip up a dish of Mexican Lasagna. First, it’s quick and easy to prepare, making it a great option for weeknight dinners or last-minute gatherings. It incorporates familiar Mexican flavors, such as taco seasoning, refried beans, and cheese, which can be a big hit among both adults and kids. Additionally, using tortillas instead of lasagna noodles makes this dish gluten-friendly, appealing to those who might need a wheat-free alternative. Lastly, it’s versatile! You can easily modify the recipe to cater to various tastes or dietary preferences.

How to Make Mexican Lasagna

Making Mexican Lasagna is a straightforward process that requires just a handful of ingredients and steps. Here’s how to do it:

Ingredients:

• 1 ½ pounds ground beef
• ¼ cup water
• 1 (1 ounce) packet taco seasoning mix
• 12 (8 inch) flour tortillas
• 1 (14 ounce) can refried beans
• 3 cups shredded Colby-Jack cheese
• 1 (8 ounce) jar taco sauce
• 1 cup shredded Colby-Jack cheese

Directions:

1. Preheat the Oven
   Begin by preheating your oven to 350 degrees F (175 degrees C). This ensures it’s the right temperature for baking your lasagna once it’s assembled.

2. Cook the Ground Beef
   In a large skillet over medium heat, cook and stir the ground beef until it is browned. Make sure to drain any excess grease to keep your dish from becoming too oily. Then, stir in the water and taco seasoning mix until well combined.

3. Layer the Ingredients
   In a 9×13 inch baking dish, spread a thin layer of the beef mixture on the bottom. Lay 6 tortillas over the beef, then add half of the refried beans on top. Sprinkle 1 ½ cups of shredded Colby-Jack cheese over the beans. Repeat these layers until all ingredients are used.

4. Top the Lasagna
   Finish your layering by placing the remaining tortillas on top. Pour the taco sauce over everything and sprinkle with the last cup of shredded cheese.

5. Bake the Lasagna
   Place your assembled lasagna in the preheated oven and bake for about 25 minutes. You’ll know it’s done when it’s heated through and the cheese is melted and bubbly.

How to Serve Mexican Lasagna

Once your Mexican Lasagna is baked, it’s time to serve! Let it cool for a few minutes before cutting into squares. This helps the layers hold together better. Serve it warm with a side of salsa, guacamole, or a fresh salad. You can also add toppings such as sour cream, chopped cilantro, or jalapeños for an extra flavor kick. This dish pairs wonderfully with a refreshing drink, like a cold Mexican soda or a margarita.

How to Store Mexican Lasagna

If you have leftovers, storing them is easy! Once the Mexican Lasagna has cooled down, cover it tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil, or transfer it to an airtight container. It can be refrigerated for up to 3-4 days. For longer storage, consider freezing portions of the lasagna. Just make sure to wrap them securely. When you’re ready to eat, you can reheat it in the oven or microwave until heated through.

Tips to Make Mexican Lasagna

• Add Veggies: Consider adding bell peppers, onions, or corn to the beef mixture for added texture and flavor.
• Use Other Meats: If you prefer, you can substitute ground turkey or chicken for the beef.
• Cheese Variations: Feel free to mix different types of cheese, such as Monterey Jack or cheddar, to customize the flavor.
• Make it Spicy: If you enjoy spicy food, add diced jalapeños or hot salsa to the layers for some heat.

Variations

There are many ways you can change things up with this Mexican Lasagna recipe. For a vegetarian version, skip the ground beef and use extra beans, veggies, or lentils instead. You could also try different sauces, like enchilada sauce, for a new twist. For a lighter version, whole wheat tortillas can be used to make this dish even healthier.

FAQs

1. Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare the Mexican Lasagna the day before and store it in the refrigerator. Just bake it when you’re ready to serve.

2. Can I use corn tortillas instead of flour tortillas?
Absolutely! Corn tortillas will work just as well; however, you may want to warm them slightly before layering for easier handling.

3. What can I do with leftover Mexican Lasagna?
Leftover Mexican Lasagna can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for 3-4 days. It also freezes well for longer storage.

4. How can I make this recipe dairy-free?
To make this dish dairy-free, use dairy-free cheese alternatives and skip the sour cream toppings.

In conclusion, Mexican Lasagna – No Lasagna Noodles is a fun and delicious dish that holds all the charm of traditional lasagna while packing a punch with Mexican flavors. It’s simple to make, easy to modify, and sure to impress your family and friends. Enjoy your cooking!