Taco Lasagna Recipe: Fully Detailed and Refined

This layered masterpiece brings together the bold flavors of tacos with the comforting structure of lasagna. Each bite is a savory explosion of seasoned meat, creamy sauce, and melted cheese.


Yield: 6-8 servings

Prep Time: 20 minutes

Cook Time: 25-30 minutes

Total Time: 50 minutes


Ingredients

For the Beef Filling:

  • 1 lb ground beef (80/20 or leaner)
  • 1 small onion, finely chopped
  • 2 garlic cloves, minced (optional but flavorful!)
  • 1 tsp garlic powder
  • 1 tsp onion powder
  • 1 tsp smoked paprika
  • 1 tsp cumin
  • 1/2 tsp chili powder (or adjust for spice preference)
  • 1 packet taco seasoning (or homemade mix)
  • 1/4 cup water (to combine with taco seasoning)

For the Sauce:

  • 1 (10.5 oz) can fiesta nacho cheese soup
  • 1 (10 oz) can Rotel (diced tomatoes with green chilies)
  • 3 tbsp sour cream (adds creaminess to the sauce)
  • 1/4 cup milk (to thin the mixture slightly, optional)

For Assembly:

  • 6 large burrito-sized flour tortillas
  • 2 cups shredded Mexican blend cheese (or cheddar, Monterey Jack, or Colby Jack)

Optional Toppings:

  • Diced fresh tomatoes
  • Chopped green onions
  • Sliced black olives
  • Fresh cilantro
  • A dollop of sour cream
  • Salsa or guacamole

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Beef Mixture

  1. Brown the Beef: Heat a skillet over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef and cook, breaking it up with a spatula, until no pink remains.
  2. Add Seasonings: Stir in the chopped onion, garlic (if using), garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, cumin, and chili powder. Sauté until the onion is soft and fragrant (about 4 minutes).
  3. Incorporate Taco Seasoning: Mix the taco seasoning packet with 1/4 cup of water and pour it into the beef mixture. Stir well and simmer for 2-3 minutes until the liquid is absorbed. Remove from heat.

Step 2: Make the Sauce

  1. Combine Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the fiesta nacho cheese soup, Rotel (with its juices), sour cream, and optional milk until smooth.
  2. Add Beef: Mix the cooked beef into the sauce, ensuring it is evenly coated.

Step 3: Assemble the Taco Lasagna

  1. Prepare the Pan: Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with nonstick spray.
  2. First Layer: Place 2 flour tortillas at the bottom of the dish, slightly overlapping to cover the surface.
  3. Add Beef Mixture: Spread 1/3 of the beef and sauce mixture evenly over the tortillas.
  4. Sprinkle Cheese: Add a generous layer of shredded cheese on top of the beef mixture.
  5. Repeat Layers: Add another layer of tortillas, beef mixture, and cheese. Repeat once more, creating three full layers.
  6. Top Layer: Finish with 2 tortillas on top and sprinkle a thick layer of shredded cheese over them.

Step 4: Bake

  1. Preheat the Oven: Set your oven to 350°F (175°C).
  2. Cook: Bake the taco lasagna uncovered for 25-30 minutes, or until the cheese on top is melted, bubbly, and golden.
  3. Rest: Allow the lasagna to cool for 5-10 minutes before slicing, making it easier to serve without falling apart.

Tips for the Best Taco Lasagna

  • Choose Your Cheese Wisely: A mix of sharp cheddar and Monterey Jack adds depth and creaminess.
  • Add Crunch: Include crushed tortilla chips or Doritos between layers for texture.
  • Layer Evenly: Spread each layer consistently to ensure every bite has the perfect ratio of filling and tortillas.

Serving Suggestions

This dish pairs well with:

  • Cheesy Mexican Rice: Cook rice with broth, tomato paste, and seasonings, then stir in shredded cheese.
  • Refried Beans: Warm canned or homemade refried beans and serve on the side.
  • Tortilla Chips with Salsa: Add a crunchy, dippable option.

Variations

  1. Vegetarian Taco Lasagna: Use black beans, pinto beans, or even lentils in place of beef. Add sautéed veggies like zucchini, corn, and bell peppers for extra flavor.
  2. Chicken Taco Lasagna: Swap the ground beef for shredded rotisserie chicken or seasoned diced chicken breast.
  3. Spicy Kick: Use hot Rotel and add chopped jalapeños to the layers.
  4. Low-Carb Option: Replace tortillas with thinly sliced zucchini or eggplant for a keto-friendly version.

Storage & Reheating

  • Refrigerate: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
  • Freeze: Wrap individual portions tightly in foil or plastic wrap and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight.
  • Reheat: Warm in the microwave for 1-2 minutes or in the oven at 350°F for 10-15 minutes until heated through.

This Taco Lasagna is a family-friendly, easy-to-make dinner that satisfies every craving. Layers of seasoned beef, creamy sauce, tortillas, and melted cheese combine for a crowd-pleaser that’s perfect for weeknight meals, potlucks, or casual get-togethers. Enjoy! 🌮🧀

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