Mexican Lasagna | Southwest Lasagna Recipe

If you're a fan of Mexican food and Italian classics, Mexican Lasagna is the perfect dish for you. This Southwest Lasagna recipe combines the best of both worlds, merging the richness of lasagna with the zest of Mexican spices.

Why Your Family Will Love This

• Easy.
• Delicious.
• Versatile.

Mexican Lasagna with Tortilla Shells is a fantastic twist on a traditional recipe, infusing the vibrant flavors of Mexican cuisine with the comforting layers of a classic lasagna. The combination of seasoned meats, hearty beans, tangy tomatoes, and gooey melted cheese sandwiched between layers of tortilla shells creates an irresistible meal.

Where Did Mexican Lasagna Originate?

Mexican lasagna is not a traditional Mexican dish and does not have a specific origin in Mexican culinary history. It is considered a fusion dish that combines elements of Mexican and Italian cuisines.

The exact origin of Mexican lasagna is difficult to pinpoint, as it likely emerged from the creativity of home cooks and chefs who sought to combine the flavors and ingredients of both cuisines.

Ingredients You'll Need

• Ground Beef
• Onion
• Garlic
• Bell Pepper
• Black Beans
• Corn
• Diced Tomatoes
• Tomato Sauce
• Chili Powder
• Cumin
• Oregano
• Salt and Pepper
• Flour Tortillas
• Mexican Cheese Blend
• Cilantro

How To Make Mexican Lasagna

1. Preheat your oven. Preheat your oven to 375F.
2. Cook the meat and veggies. In a large skillet or frying pan, cook the ground beef over medium heat until browned. Add the diced onion, minced garlic, and diced bell pepper. Cook until the vegetables are tender and the meat is fully cooked.
3. Season the cooked meat and veggies. Drain any excess grease from the skillet. Add the black beans, corn, diced tomatoes, and tomato sauce to the skillet, stirring well to combine. Season the mixture with chili powder, cumin, dried oregano, salt, and pepper. Allow the flavors to meld together over medium heat for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally.
4. Begin Layering. Grease a baking dish and layer the bottom with a thin amount of the meat and vegetable mixture. Place a tortilla shell on top to cover the mixture.
5. Add some cheesy goodness. Spoon a generous portion of the meat and vegetable mixture onto the tortilla shell, spreading it evenly. Sprinkle a handful of shredded cheese on top.
6. Finish layering. Place another tortilla shell on top and repeat the layering process until all the ingredients are used, finishing with a layer of meat and vegetables and a generous amount of shredded cheese on top.
7. Cover and bake. Cover the baking dish with foil and bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes. Then, remove the foil and continue baking for an additional 5-10 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
8. Let the lasagna rest. Once the Mexican Lasagna with Tortilla Shells is cooked to perfection, remove it from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes. Garnish with fresh cilantro leaves for a vibrant touch.
9. Serve and enjoy! Slice the lasagna into portions and serve it warm.

Tips And Tricks

Here are some tips and tricks to help you make a delicious Mexican lasagna:

• Choose the Right Tortillas. Opt for large flour tortillas that are sturdy enough to hold the layers of filling without becoming too soggy. Corn tortillas can also be used, but they may require slightly different handling.
• Precook the Tortillas. To prevent the tortillas from becoming too soft during baking, you can choose to lightly fry or bake them for a few minutes before assembling the lasagna. This will give them a crispy texture and help maintain their structure.
• Don't Overload the Layers. While it's tempting to pile on the filling and cheese, try to maintain a balance of flavors and textures. Overfilling the layers can make the lasagna difficult to slice and serve neatly.
• Let It Rest. After removing the lasagna from the oven, allow it to rest for a few minutes before slicing. This will help the layers set and make it easier to serve without losing its shape.

Variations

• Vegetarian or Vegan- Skip the meat and opt for a vegetarian or vegan version of Mexican lasagna. Replace the ground meat with plant-based alternatives like crumbled tofu or tempeh. You can also add additional vegetables such as zucchini, spinach, or mushrooms for added flavor and texture.
• Gluten-Free- If you're following a gluten-free diet, use gluten-free tortillas or substitute them with thinly sliced zucchini or eggplant. Ensure that all the ingredients, such as sauces and seasonings, are also gluten-free.
• Green Chile- Add a spicy kick by incorporating roasted green chiles into the filling. You can use canned or fresh roasted green chiles, depending on availability. The mild heat and smoky flavor of the chiles will add depth to the dish.

Feel free to experiment and combine different ingredients and flavors to create your own signature variation of Mexican lasagna. Let your creativity guide you, and don't be afraid to try new ingredients and techniques.

What Do You Serve With Mexican Lasagna?

When it comes to serving Mexican lasagna, there are several complementary dishes and accompaniments that can enhance your meal. Here are a few suggestions:

1. Mexican Rice- Serve a side of flavorful Mexican rice to complement the lasagna. The combination of aromatic rice, spices, and vegetables pairs well with the bold flavors of the lasagna.
2. Refried Beans- Refried beans make an excellent side dish for Mexican lasagna. Their creamy texture and savory taste add depth and richness to the meal. You can either make them from scratch or use canned refried beans for convenience.
3. Guacamole and Salsa- Offer a platter of fresh guacamole and salsa for a refreshing contrast. The creamy guacamole, made from ripe avocados, and the tangy salsa will provide a cool and vibrant element to balance the richness of the lasagna.
4. Tortilla Chips- Serve a bowl of tortilla chips alongside the Mexican lasagna. They can be used for scooping up the lasagna or enjoyed on their own with salsa or guacamole.

The goal is to create a well-rounded and satisfying meal that celebrates the vibrant and bold flavors of Mexican cuisine.

How Long Does It Last?

Once the Mexican lasagna has cooled down, cover it tightly with plastic wrap or transfer it to an airtight container. Properly refrigerated, Mexican lasagna can typically last for up to 3-4 days.

Can You Freeze It?

If you have a larger batch of Mexican lasagna or want to save some for later, you can freeze it. Wrap the lasagna tightly with plastic wrap and then foil to protect it from freezer burn. Frozen Mexican lasagna can retain its quality for up to 2-3 months.

More Mexican-Inspired Dishes

• Slow Cooker Chipotle Chicken
• Salsa Chicken
• Shrimp Fajitas
• Carne Guisada
• Instant Pot Tamale Pie

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