Mexican Lasagna Recipe: A Delightful Casserole to Savor
Description:
Indulge in the delightful flavors of Mexican cuisine with our Mexican Lasagna. This visually appealing casserole, when garnished as directed, is not only a feast for the eyes but also a treat for the taste buds. Perfect for family gatherings or dinner parties, this dish is best enjoyed with Mexican rice, salsa, and a refreshing frozen margarita.
Recipe Category:
Mexican
Keywords:
< 60 Mins, Oven
Ingredients:
- 1 1/2 pounds ground beef
- 1 1/2 teaspoons ground cumin
- 1 tablespoon chili powder
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon pepper
- 1 can diced tomatoes (approximately 14.5 ounces)
- 10-12 corn tortillas
- 2 cups small curd cottage cheese
- 1 cup Monterey Jack pepper cheese, shredded
- 1 egg
- 1/2 cup cheddar cheese, shredded
- 2 cups lettuce, shredded
- 1 fresh tomato, diced
- 3 green onions, chopped
- 1/4 cup black olives, sliced
Nutrition Facts (per serving):
- Calories: 569
- Fat Content: 32.3g
- Saturated Fat Content: 15g
- Cholesterol Content: 150.3mg
- Sodium Content: 1187.2mg
- Carbohydrate Content: 28g
- Fiber Content: 4.9g
- Sugar Content: 4.4g
- Protein Content: 42.1g
Aggregated Rating:
4.5 stars based on 4 reviews
Servings and Yield:
Information not specified; adjust ingredients proportionally for larger servings.
Instructions:
-
Prepare the Beef Mixture:
- In a large skillet, cook the ground beef over medium heat until it is thoroughly browned. Drain any excess fat.
- Add the ground cumin, chili powder, garlic powder, crushed red pepper flakes, salt, and pepper to the beef. Mix well to combine.
- Stir in the diced tomatoes and allow the mixture to heat through.
-
Assemble the Casserole:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Cover the bottom and sides of a 13x9x2-inch baking dish with a layer of corn tortillas.
- Pour the seasoned beef mixture over the layer of tortillas, spreading it evenly.
- Place another layer of corn tortillas over the beef mixture.
-
Prepare the Cheese Layer:
- In a medium bowl, combine the cottage cheese, shredded Monterey Jack pepper cheese, and egg. Mix until well blended.
- Pour this cheese mixture over the second layer of tortillas, spreading it evenly.
-
Bake the Casserole:
- Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake, uncovered, for 30 minutes or until the cheese is bubbly and slightly golden.
-
Garnish and Serve:
- Remove the casserole from the oven and let it cool slightly.
- Sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese, lettuce, diced tomatoes, chopped green onions, and sliced black olives diagonally across the center of the casserole.
- Serve warm with sides of Mexican rice and salsa, accompanied by a frozen margarita for a complete meal.
Serving Suggestions:
- Pair this Mexican Lasagna with a side of Mexican rice for a wholesome meal.
- A fresh salsa or guacamole can add an extra layer of flavor.
- Serve with a refreshing frozen margarita to complete the Mexican dining experience.
Cooking Tips:
- For a spicier kick, increase the amount of crushed red pepper flakes or add a chopped jalapeño to the beef mixture.
- To save time, you can prepare the beef mixture a day ahead and store it in the refrigerator until you’re ready to assemble the casserole.
- Substitute ground turkey or chicken for a leaner version of this dish.
- If you prefer a creamier texture, mix in a small can of cream of mushroom soup with the beef mixture before layering.
Variations:
- Vegetarian Mexican Lasagna: Replace the ground beef with a mix of sautéed vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, and mushrooms. Use vegetarian refried beans or black beans for added protein.
- Chicken Mexican Lasagna: Swap the ground beef for shredded cooked chicken. This can be a great way to use up leftover rotisserie chicken.
- Mexican Lasagna Rolls: Instead of layering, roll the beef mixture and cheese mixture in the tortillas and place them seam side down in the baking dish. Top with cheese and bake as directed.
Presentation Tips:
- For a more festive presentation, arrange the toppings in colorful rows across the casserole.
- Garnish with a sprinkle of fresh cilantro and a few lime wedges on the side.
Storage and Reheating:
- Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- To reheat, cover with aluminum foil and bake at 350°F (175°C) until heated through, about 20 minutes. Alternatively, microwave individual portions on high for 2-3 minutes.
This Mexican Lasagna recipe is sure to become a family favorite, bringing the vibrant flavors of Mexico to your dining table. Its rich, cheesy layers combined with the seasoned beef and fresh toppings make for a delightful meal that is both satisfying and visually appealing. Enjoy this dish with loved ones and make every meal a celebration!
