Taco Lasagna

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Taco Lasagna – A Cheesy Mexican-Inspired Comfort Dish

Taco Lasagna is the ultimate weeknight dinner when you’re craving something hearty, cheesy, and full of bold Tex-Mex flavor. This layered casserole combines all the best taco elements—seasoned beef, refried beans, black beans, salsa, tortillas, and gooey cheese—baked into a bubbly, golden, irresistible lasagna-style dish. It’s perfect for feeding a crowd and easily customizable with your favorite toppings.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 45 minutes
Servings: 8
Calories per Serving: 540 kcal

Ingredients

  • 1 ½ pounds lean ground beef
  • 1 cup green bell pepper, diced
  • 1 cup onion, diced
  • ¼ cup taco seasoning (or homemade)
  • 2/3 cup water
  • 1 (15-ounce) can black beans, drained and rinsed
  • 1/8 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
  • 1 ½ cups thick salsa (avoid thin salsa)
  • 9 taco-size flour tortillas
  • 1 (14.5-ounce) can refried beans
  • 3 cups shredded Colby Jack cheese

Optional Toppings

  • Diced tomatoes
  • Sliced black olives
  • Sliced jalapeños
  • Diced avocado or guacamole
  • Sour cream
  • Shredded lettuce
  • Green onions

Instructions

  1. Preheat Oven & Prepare Dish
    Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly spray a 9×13-inch baking dish with non-stick cooking spray.
  2. Cook the Filling
    In a large skillet over medium-high heat, cook the ground beef, green peppers, and onion until the meat is fully browned and the vegetables are tender, about 6–8 minutes. Drain excess fat.
  3. Season the Meat
    Stir in the taco seasoning and water. Let the mixture simmer on low for 1–2 minutes until slightly thickened.
  4. Add Beans, Salsa & Cilantro
    Mix in the salsa, black beans, and chopped cilantro. Stir until well combined, then remove the skillet from the heat.
  5. Layer the Lasagna
    Start assembling the lasagna in the prepared dish:

    • Bottom layer: Place 2 tortillas flat on the bottom, and cut a third one in half to fill the empty space.
    • Refried beans: Spread ⅓ of the can evenly over the tortillas. (Tip: If your beans are too thick, mix them with a tablespoon or two of water to soften.)
    • Meat mixture: Add ⅓ of the beef mixture on top.
    • Cheese: Sprinkle with a light layer of shredded cheese.
  6. Repeat Layers
    Repeat the same layering steps two more times (tortillas, beans, meat, cheese). Finish with a final layer of tortillas and top generously with the remaining cheese.
  7. Bake
    Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake for 30 minutes, or until the lasagna is hot and bubbly throughout.
    For a golden cheesy top, remove the foil during the last 5 minutes of baking.
  8. Serve
    Let the taco lasagna sit for a few minutes before slicing. Serve warm with your choice of toppings for extra flavor and freshness.

Recipe Tips

  • Refried Beans: If too dry, stir in a bit of water before spreading.
  • Salsa Consistency: Use a thick salsa to avoid making the filling watery.
  • Make Ahead: Assemble the lasagna a day in advance, cover, and refrigerate. Bake just before serving.

Nutrition (Per Serving)

  • Calories: 540 kcal
  • Protein: 30g
  • Carbohydrates: 25g
  • Fat: 36g
  • Saturated Fat: 18g
  • Fiber: 3g
  • Sugar: 4g
  • Cholesterol: 107mg
  • Sodium: 1203mg
  • Vitamin A: 1255 IU
  • Vitamin C: 20mg
  • Calcium: 411mg
  • Iron: 4mg

This Taco Lasagna is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser—perfect for family dinners, potlucks, or any time you want a cozy and flavor-packed meal. The leftovers are just as delicious the next day, making it a great meal prep option too!

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