Mexican Lasagna - No Lasagna Noodles! Recipe

Name: Mexican Lasagna - No Lasagna Noodles!
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 40 min
Total time: 60 min
Ingredients: 1.5 pounds ground beef; 0.25 cup water; 1 (1 ounce) packet taco seasoning mix; 12 (8 inch) flour tortillas, or more if needed; 1 (14 ounce) can refried beans; 3 cups shredded Colby-Jack cheese; 1 (8 ounce) jar taco sauce; 1 cup shredded Colby-Jack cheese

Cook Time: 40 minutes

This taco lasagna is a crowd-pleasing dish with layers of seasoned ground beef, refried beans, tortillas, and melted Colby-Jack cheese. Perfect for family dinners or gatherings!

Ingredients

1 pounds ground beef
cup water
1 (1 ounce) packet taco seasoning mix
12 (8 inch) flour tortillas (or more if needed)
1 (14 ounce) can refried beans
3 cups shredded Colby-Jack cheese
1 (8 ounce) jar taco sauce
1 cup shredded Colby-Jack cheese (for topping)

Directions

Preheat the oven to 350F (175C) and grease a 9x13-inch casserole dish.
Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef and cook, stirring frequently, until its crumbly, browned, and no longer pink about 10 minutes. Drain any excess grease and discard.
Add cup water and taco seasoning mix to the skillet. Stir well, and cook until the mixture thickens, about 5 to 10 minutes. Remove from heat.
Place 3 tortillas at the bottom of the prepared casserole dish. Spread about half of the refried beans over the tortillas, followed by half of the seasoned ground beef. Top with 1 cup of shredded Colby-Jack cheese.
Layer 3 more tortillas over the cheese, and spread the remaining refried beans and half of the taco sauce over this. Add another 1 cup of shredded Colby-Jack cheese.
Arrange 3 more tortillas on top. Spread the remaining seasoned ground beef and top with another cup of shredded Colby-Jack cheese.
Place the final 3 tortillas on top of the lasagna, and drizzle with the remaining taco sauce. Top with the remaining 1 cup of shredded Colby-Jack cheese.
Bake the lasagna in the preheated oven for 20 to 25 minutes, or until the top tortilla layer is golden brown.
Sprinkle the remaining 1 cup of shredded Colby-Jack cheese over the lasagna. Turn on the ovens broiler and place the lasagna under the broiler for 3 to 5 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.

Nutrition Facts

Serving Size	Calories	Fat	Carbs	Protein
1 serving	369	20g	28g	19g

Nutrition Breakdown

Total Fat: 20g (26% DV)
Saturated Fat: 11g (54% DV)
Cholesterol: 61mg (20% DV)
Sodium: 748mg (33% DV)
Total Carbohydrate: 28g (10% DV)
Dietary Fiber: 3g (9% DV)
Protein: 19g (38% DV)
Vitamin C: 2mg (2% DV)
Calcium: 26mg (2% DV)
Iron: 2mg (13% DV)
Potassium: 199mg (4% DV)

*Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000-calorie diet. Your daily values may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.

Author: LoLaBelle

History of Mexican Lasagna

The concept of lasagna is traditionally Italian, but the fusion of Mexican and Italian flavors has led to the creation of dishes like Mexican Lasagna. It is believed that Mexican Lasagna first gained popularity in the United States, where a blend of Italian-style lasagna and Mexican ingredients like tortillas, ground beef, and taco seasoning created a unique, hearty casserole. Unlike traditional lasagna that uses pasta noodles, this version swaps them out for flour tortillas, making it more accessible and convenient for home cooks, especially those looking for a quick meal option with a flavorful twist.

Regional Variations

Though Mexican Lasagna is popular across the United States, its variations can be found throughout different regions of Mexico and among Mexican-American communities. In some versions, corn tortillas may replace flour tortillas for a gluten-free alternative, or additional layers of beans, guacamole, or sour cream might be included. Certain regions may also incorporate different types of cheese, such as queso fresco or Cotija, depending on local preferences. The use of fresh salsa or enchilada sauce can also vary from family to family, making each rendition unique.

How it Differs from Traditional Lasagna

Mexican Lasagna deviates from the traditional Italian recipe in several key ways. The most obvious difference is the substitution of lasagna noodles with tortillas, which gives the dish a different texture and flavor. Additionally, the use of ground beef, taco seasoning, refried beans, and taco sauce infuses the dish with distinctly Mexican flavors. While classic Italian lasagna often features layers of ricotta or bchamel sauce, Mexican Lasagna typically uses a more savory combination of cheese, salsa, and seasoned meat, making it a heartier and spicier dish compared to its Italian counterpart.

Where It's Typically Served

Mexican Lasagna is a popular comfort food that is often served in casual settings such as family dinners, potlucks, or taco-themed gatherings. It is commonly found in households across North America, particularly in areas with large Mexican or Mexican-American populations. Given its ease of preparation and hearty, filling nature, it is a go-to dish for busy weeknight meals. It is also popular in Tex-Mex restaurants, where variations of the dish are made to cater to local tastes and preferences.

Interesting Facts

Despite its name, Mexican Lasagna is not a traditional Mexican dish, but rather a Tex-Mex creation that blends Italian and Mexican flavors.
The use of tortillas in place of pasta noodles is not only a flavor enhancer but also a practical substitution, especially in regions where tortillas are more common and accessible than traditional pasta.
Mexican Lasagna is a versatile dish that can be adapted to suit different dietary needs, such as gluten-free or vegetarian diets, by swapping out ingredients like the flour tortillas or using plant-based meat alternatives.
The dish is often topped with various garnishes such as sour cream, fresh cilantro, sliced olives, and avocado, making it even more customizable and flavorful.

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FAQ about Mexican Lasagna - No Lasagna Noodles! Recipe

Store leftover Mexican lasagna in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3–4 days. You can also freeze it for longer storage. If freezing, wrap the lasagna tightly in plastic wrap or foil before placing it in a freezer-safe container. It will keep in the freezer for up to 3 months. When ready to eat, reheat in the oven or microwave.

Yes, you can prepare the Mexican lasagna a day ahead. After assembling it, cover it tightly with plastic wrap or foil and refrigerate it overnight. The next day, bake it as directed. If you’re making it in advance and freezing it, it’s best to bake it first and then freeze the cooked lasagna. Reheat thoroughly before serving.

Yes, you can use a different type of cheese. Cheddar cheese, mozzarella, or a blend of Mexican cheeses would all work well. The choice of cheese will alter the flavor profile slightly, but it will still be delicious.

The recipe as written contains flour tortillas, which are not gluten-free. However, you can substitute gluten-free corn tortillas or other gluten-free tortilla options to make this dish gluten-free.

Yes, you can substitute ground turkey or chicken for the beef. This will make the dish leaner, but it will still taste great. Just be sure to cook the poultry thoroughly before adding the seasonings.

Yes, you can make this recipe vegetarian by omitting the ground beef and using a plant-based protein, like crumbled tofu, tempeh, or beans, as a substitute. You can also increase the amount of refried beans for added protein.

To prevent the tortillas from getting too soggy, you can lightly crisp them in a skillet or in the oven before assembling the lasagna. This step helps them hold their shape and absorb less moisture from the sauce and other ingredients.

Mexican lasagna pairs well with a variety of sides. Consider serving it with a fresh salad, Mexican rice, refried beans, or sautéed vegetables. You can also top it with sour cream, guacamole, or fresh cilantro for extra flavor.

The lasagna is done baking when the top layer of tortillas begins to brown and the cheese is melted and bubbly. If you are unsure, you can insert a knife into the center to check that it is hot throughout.

Yes, you can make the lasagna in a smaller pan. Just be sure to adjust the ingredient quantities as needed. A 9x9-inch pan would work well for a smaller portion. The baking time may be shorter, so keep an eye on it as it bakes.

Comments

almondmoose

10/06/2025 01:52:54 PM

This was an excellent recipe! The only thing that was tweaked was I added onions, jalapenos, and tomatoes to the meat while it was cooking, and a garnish of cilantro. Sour cream is a must.

seattlemama

06/23/2021 12:31:49 AM

As is it’s 5 stars, but to make it even more yummier, do salsa instead of taco sauce (add a layer on the meat each time) and add sour cream layers when you do the salsa so yum with sour cream. The salsa gives it more flavor than taco sauce. Our entire fam, including all the kids love it! We put out out chopped green onions, sliced avocado, olives, and more sour cream so people can top with what they want. You can make this with corn tortillas instead if you need a gluten free option which I’ve made it that way too and also good!

Jennifer Korpak Bechtel

02/24/2019 05:46:23 PM

Delicious and easy-to-make! I added a layer of sour cream after the ground beef mixture in the first layer, and added a 10 oz. can of tomatoes with chili peppers to the ground beef mixture. We love olives, so we put sliced olives over the cheese at the very end. Sliced avocados and cilantro at serving time added a nice touch, too!

Shawna R Siegfired

09/02/2019 07:36:01 PM

I made more then a few changes but worth it. I added 2 cans of rotel tomatoes, sliced olives, a small can of enchilada sauce, half a jar of taco bell mild taco sauce and I added the beans to the meat sauce. Let simmer for it is a little runny. Then I did crisp up the tortillas in some oil constantly popping the bubbles just so they don't get to soggy while cooking. I did add extra seasoning because the taco packet is not enough for us but turned out awesome! Will make again!

Samuel Green

02/23/2019 04:45:17 PM

Even my dog seemed interested in the smell.

milwauk

01/04/2025 10:07:10 PM

This was tasty. And easy. But could use a bit more liquid in my opinion . I mixed the refried beans with the taco meat which made the beans easier to spread . I would recommend using an extra bottle of taco sauce and using half of that to coat the bottom of the baking dish to keep the tortillas soft .

Dmd D

01/25/2017 12:12:20 AM

This turned out really good! My 11 year old boys gave it a 10 out of 5! I used chicken instead of beef. I diced chicken breast and put it in the slow cooker with chicken boullion for 3 hours, drained the juice and shredded the chicken. Then proceeded per the recipe.

Hetzler

09/12/2021 01:45:07 PM

Tastes good, too much work for results. Beans were difficult to spread, so added jalapeño dip to bean to soften and held the tortilla in hand while spreading beans. Will make again, but will simplify.

Lynne Frasche

10/01/2013 01:13:01 PM

Wow! Just what I was looking for! I added a can of undrained Rotel to the meat and omitted the water...Other than that....followed recipe, and it was GREAT! Going into my meal rotation. Thanks for this one!

genibean

02/23/2019 02:53:02 PM

I have made this for years, using fresh spices and home made sauce instead of mixes and jars. You can adjust flavor better when you put your own spices and sauces. The mixes are one note and bland. I Serve the beans on the side because not everyone in my house likes them. All have lettuce, olives, sour cream etc for toppings. The tortilla can get mushy so the toppings can add some texture. Everyone enjoys it. But... this is a casserole, not lasagna. Lasagna is a type of pasta. Just because it layered does make it lasagna. But it is yummy.

Nicole Virgo

12/05/2014 02:26:26 PM

Excellent. I love anything Mexican. And this was super easy. Helpful hint: mix retried beans right in with the taco meat and layer as directed . I added salsa to my meat mixture as well.

Kenneth Harris

02/15/2024 05:45:29 PM

Fast, easy, and tastes way above its difficulty.

SturdyAhi7416

10/03/2022 12:55:47 AM

It's aight

Jennie Conrad

06/14/2022 06:13:31 PM

I make this in a large, greased,spring form pan. Allow to sit 15 minutes after it comes out, then remove side of pan, cut, serve, enjoy

Robert Walsh

11/29/2021 02:46:03 AM

Quick easy meal! Almost like havin loaded nachos but with tortillas. A snack that's a meal. Good. Next time I'm just going to throw broken tortilla chips down for the base and see how that works.

Lennie

07/16/2020 11:49:40 PM

This was fabulous! I added onions and jalapenos to the meat and used spicy hot taco seasoning. Yummy. Will make 3 meals for just the 2 of us. Served with fresh garden veggies.

Karl Olschesky

01/24/2020 10:11:26 PM

Very good. Next time I will add an additional 1/2 pack of taco seasoning and a can of green chilies to the salsa.

bpevytoe13

11/02/2019 10:55:43 PM

Mixed tomatoes in with meat sauce as well as garlic salt & black pepper. Used low sodium taco seasoning. Mixed the can of vegetarian refried beans in with meat sauce. Added a little more cheese for the cheese layers. Since I was making dinner for only 2 people, I sectioned off the leftover food into squares for individual servings.

Diane Smith

10/20/2019 12:38:25 AM

This dish was good. My hubby was impressed.

Bill

07/18/2019 03:18:30 AM

I didn't make any changes, but did add some sour cream and fresh Cilantro when I served it . YUM!

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