Mexican Taco Lasagna is a delicious and comforting dish that combines the flavors of tacos with the layers of lasagna. Here’s how you can make it:
**Ingredients:**
– 1 lb ground beef (or turkey)
– 1 small onion, chopped
– 1 packet (1 oz) taco seasoning mix
– 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
– 1 can (15 oz) corn kernels, drained
– 1 can (10 oz) diced tomatoes with green chilies, drained
– 1 cup salsa
– 1 cup ricotta cheese (or substitute with sour cream or cream cheese for a creamier texture)
– 2 cups shredded Mexican blend cheese (or cheddar cheese), divided
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro (optional)
– 9-12 lasagna noodles, cooked according to package instructions
– Optional toppings: chopped lettuce, diced tomatoes, sour cream, sliced jalapeños
**Instructions:**
1. **Preheat the oven:** Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×13 inch baking dish with non-stick spray or oil.
2. **Cook the ground beef:** In a large skillet, cook the ground beef and chopped onion over medium-high heat until the beef is browned and the onion is softened, about 5-7 minutes. Drain off any excess fat.
3. **Add taco seasoning and vegetables:** Stir in the taco seasoning mix, black beans, corn kernels, diced tomatoes with green chilies, and salsa. Cook for another 2-3 minutes until heated through and well combined. Remove from heat and set aside.
4. **Prepare the ricotta cheese mixture:** In a small bowl, mix the ricotta cheese with 1 cup of shredded cheese and chopped cilantro (if using). This will be the cheesy layer of the lasagna.
5. **Assemble the lasagna:** Spread a thin layer of the meat mixture on the bottom of the prepared baking dish. Layer with cooked lasagna noodles (about 3-4 noodles, depending on the size of your dish). Spread half of the remaining meat mixture over the noodles. Dollop half of the ricotta cheese mixture evenly over the meat layer. Repeat with another layer of lasagna noodles, the rest of the meat mixture, and the remaining ricotta cheese mixture.
6. **Top with cheese:** Sprinkle the remaining 1 cup of shredded cheese evenly over the top of the lasagna.
7. **Bake:** Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 25 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbly and the lasagna is heated through.
8. **Serve:** Remove from the oven and let it cool slightly before serving. Garnish with optional toppings such as chopped lettuce, diced tomatoes, sour cream, and sliced jalapeños.
9. **Enjoy!** Cut into squares and serve warm. This Mexican Taco Lasagna is a hearty and flavorful dish that combines the best of tacos and lasagna into one delicious meal.
This recipe is versatile and can be customized to your taste preferences. It’s perfect for family dinners or potluck gatherings, and it’s sure to be a crowd-pleaser!
