Taco Lasagna

Make an easy and delicious Taco Lasagna packed with layers of seasoned ground beef, melted cheese, black beans, and zesty enchilada sauce. This hearty dinner recipe is perfect for busy weeknights, meal prep, or a crowd-pleasing family dinner. Using simple pantry ingredients, this Mexican-inspired lasagna brings bold flavors and a cheesy, oven-baked finish. Serve with your favorite toppings like sour cream, avocado, or hot sauce for a complete meal!

Ingredients

Meat Mixture

• 1 lb. ground beef
• 1 small onion, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 oz. packet taco seasoning
• 2/3 cup water
• 15 oz. can black beans, drained and rinsed

Cheese Layer

• 15 oz. Ricotta cheese
• 1 tablespoon dried oregano
• 1 egg

Sauce and Layers

• 10 oz. red enchilada sauce
• 24 oz. salsa (thick & chunky recommended)
• 12 uncooked lasagna noodles
• 4 cups shredded cheddar cheese, divided

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Instructions

Preparing the Meat Mixture

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F.
2. In a large skillet over medium heat, brown the ground beef. Add the diced onions halfway through and the garlic during the last minute. Drain excess grease.
3. Stir in the taco seasoning and water. Bring to a boil, then reduce to a simmer. Cook until the mixture thickens. Mix in the black beans and set aside.

Assembling the Layers

4. In a bowl, combine the enchilada sauce and salsa.
5. In a separate bowl, mix the Ricotta cheese, oregano, and egg.
6. Spoon a thin layer of the enchilada sauce mixture over the bottom of a 9×13-inch baking dish. Place 4 uncooked lasagna noodles on top.
7. First Layer: Spread 1/3 of the Ricotta mixture, followed by 1/3 of the meat mixture, 1/3 of the sauce mixture, and 1 cup of shredded cheese.
8. Second Layer: Repeat the first layer with 4 more noodles, another portion of Ricotta, meat, sauce, and cheese.
9. Third Layer: Add the last 4 noodles, the remaining Ricotta, meat, and sauce. Do not add cheese yet.

Baking

10. Cover tightly with foil to trap steam and cook the noodles.
11. Bake for 45 minutes. Remove the foil, sprinkle the remaining 2 cups of cheese over the top, and bake for another 15 minutes.
12. Let rest for 15 minutes before serving. Garnish with parsley, sour cream, or green onions if desired.

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy and hearty – A delicious twist on classic lasagna with bold taco flavors.
• One-pan meal – Everything bakes together for a simple and satisfying dinner.
• Family favorite – Perfect for gatherings, meal prep, or weeknight dinners.
• Customizable – Adjust spice levels, swap proteins, or add different cheeses.

Tips

• Don’t overcook the meat – Since it will continue cooking in the oven.
• Seal the foil tightly – This ensures the noodles cook properly using the steam.
• Use freshly shredded cheese – It melts better than pre-shredded cheese.
• Let it rest – Allowing it to sit before slicing helps the layers hold together.

Variations and Substitutions

• Protein options – Swap ground beef with ground turkey, chicken, or a meatless alternative.
• Cheese options – Use Monterey Jack, Colby, or a Mexican cheese blend.
• Extra heat – Add chopped jalapeños or spicy salsa for more kick.
• Low-carb – Use low-carb tortillas instead of lasagna noodles.

FAQs

Can I make this ahead of time?

Yes! Assemble the lasagna up to 24 hours in advance and refrigerate. Bake as directed, adding an extra 10 minutes to the covered baking time.

Can I freeze taco lasagna?

Absolutely! Assemble, cover tightly, and freeze for up to 3 months. Bake from frozen at 375°F for 60-70 minutes, or thaw overnight and bake as directed.

How do I store leftovers?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat individual portions in the microwave or the oven at 350°F until heated through.

Serving Suggestions

• Pair with: Mexican rice, refried beans, or a fresh green salad.
• Toppings: Sour cream, diced avocados, cilantro, or hot sauce.
• Side ideas: Serve with tortilla chips and guacamole for a complete meal.

Taco Lasagna is a flavorful, cheesy, and satisfying dish that brings the best of tacos and lasagna together into one irresistible meal!