Taco night just got a whole new twist—say hello to Easy Taco Lasagna, the ultimate mashup of two family favorites! Imagine layers of seasoned beef, creamy beans, gooey melted cheese, and soft tortillas all baked into a comforting, crowd-pleasing casserole. Whether it’s a weeknight dinner or a game day snack, this easy dish comes together quickly and disappears even faster.
Why You’ll Love Easy Taco Lasagna
This taco-inspired bake brings together all your favorite Tex-Mex flavors in a lasagna-style format. It’s hearty, cheesy, and so easy to make!
This recipe is for you if you’re craving something that’s:
- Quick and easy – perfect for busy weeknights.
- Cheesy and comforting – like your favorite tacos in casserole form.
- Customizable – mix and match beans, cheese, or even add veggies.
- Great for leftovers – it reheats beautifully for lunch or dinner the next day.
- Kid-approved – a guaranteed family hit!
Ingredients You’ll Need
Let’s break down what makes this taco lasagna so satisfying:
- Ground Beef (1.5–2 lbs): Juicy and flavorful—feel free to use lean or mix in ground turkey for a lighter version.
- Taco-Sized Tortillas (12): Flour tortillas hold up well during baking and create perfect layers.
- Beans (1 can, 16 oz): Pinto, black, or refried—whatever you prefer! They add protein and creaminess.
- Taco Seasoning (1 oz packet): Your favorite store-bought mix or homemade version will bring all the spice.
- Shredded Cheese (3.5 cups): A mix of cheddar, pepper jack, or Mexican blend—divided into thirds to layer throughout.
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Cook the Beef:
In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef until browned. Drain any excess fat. Add taco seasoning and a splash of water (about ¼ cup). Stir in the beans and simmer for 2–3 minutes until thickened and heated through.
2. Preheat the Oven:
Set your oven to 375°F (190°C) and lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
3. Assemble the Layers:
Start by placing a few tortillas at the bottom of the dish to create a base layer (cut them if needed to fit).
Spread ⅓ of the beef and bean mixture over the tortillas.
Sprinkle ⅓ of the shredded cheese over the beef.
Repeat layers two more times: tortillas, meat, cheese—ending with a final layer of cheese on top.
4. Bake:
Cover with foil and bake for 20 minutes. Remove foil and bake uncovered for another 10 minutes until the cheese is bubbly and golden.
5. Cool and Serve:
Let the lasagna rest for 5–10 minutes before slicing. Garnish with sour cream, chopped cilantro, green onions, or jalapeños if desired!
What to Serve with Taco Lasagna
- A crisp green salad with lime vinaigrette
- Mexican-style rice or corn salad
- Tortilla chips and guacamole
- Pickled jalapeños or salsa on the side
Tips for Success
- Make it vegetarian: Skip the beef and use sautéed bell peppers, onions, and extra beans.
- Spice it up: Add diced green chiles, hot sauce, or use pepper jack cheese for heat.
- Make ahead: Assemble the lasagna the night before and refrigerate. Bake when ready!
- Storage: Leftovers can be refrigerated for up to 4 days and freeze well for up to 2 months.
FAQ
Q: Can I use corn tortillas instead?
A: Yes! They give a slightly different texture and a more authentic Mexican flavor.
Q: Can I make this gluten-free?
A: Absolutely—just use gluten-free tortillas and double-check your taco seasoning and beans.
Q: What’s the best cheese for taco lasagna?
A: A Mexican blend works great, but feel free to use any combo of cheddar, mozzarella, Monterey Jack, or pepper jack.
Q: Can I add veggies to the layers?
A: Yes! Bell peppers, corn, or even zucchini work well.
This Easy Taco Lasagna is a keeper for busy nights and fun gatherings alike. It’s bold, cheesy, and full of taco flavor—what’s not to love? Give it a try and let me know how you made it your own!
Easy Taco Lasagna
Ingredients
- 1.5 –2 lbs ground beef
- 12 taco-sized flour tortillas or 9 burrito-sized
- 1 can 16 oz beans (pinto, black, or refried)
- 1 packet 1 oz taco seasoning
- 3.5 cups shredded cheese Mexican blend, cheddar, pepper jack, or your choice, divided into thirds
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
- In a large skillet, cook ground beef over medium heat until browned. Drain excess fat. Stir in taco seasoning according to packet instructions.
- Spread a thin layer of beans on the bottom of a 9×13 inch baking dish.
- Layer 3 tortillas to cover the bottom. Spread a third of the seasoned beef over tortillas, then sprinkle a third of the shredded cheese. Repeat layering two more times ending with cheese on top.
- Cover with foil and bake for 30 minutes. Remove foil and bake an additional 10 minutes or until cheese is bubbly and golden.
- Let rest 5 minutes before slicing and serving.
