Indiana Mexican Lasagna: A Delightful Twist on a Classic
Recipe Name: Indiana Mexican Lasagna
Cook Time: 40 minutes
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour
Description: This is one of our family favorites and I guarantee it will be a hit for you too! It’s VERY easy to make and can be “personalized” at the table.
Recipe Category: Meat
Keywords: Mexican, < 60 Mins, Oven, Easy
Servings: Approximately 8-10 servings (one 9 x 13 casserole dish)
Aggregated Rating: 4/5
Review Count: 1
Calories per Serving: 401.7
Fat Content: 17.3 g
Saturated Fat Content: 5.9 g
Cholesterol Content: 51.4 mg
Sodium Content: 537.5 mg
Carbohydrate Content: 39.4 g
Fiber Content: 2.4 g
Sugar Content: 1.5 g
Protein Content: 20.4 g
Ingredients
- 1 – 1 1/2 lbs ground beef
- 1 flour tortilla (typically you will need a few for layering)
- 1 cheese (use a blend of Mexican cheeses, such as Monterey Jack, Cheddar, or Queso Blanco)
- 1 head lettuce, shredded (for serving)
- Green onion, chopped (for serving)
- Black olives, sliced (for serving)
- Tomatoes, diced (for serving)
- Sour cream (for serving)
- Salsa (for serving)
- 1 package burrito seasoning mix
- 1 can (14 oz) enchilada sauce (you may need more depending on preference)
Instructions
-
Prepare the Beef
- Brown the ground beef in a large skillet over medium heat until fully cooked, breaking it up into crumbles as it cooks.
- Drain the excess fat and return the beef to the skillet.
-
Season the Beef
- Add the burrito seasoning mix to the beef, following the directions on the back of the package. Usually, this involves adding some water and simmering until the sauce thickens and coats the beef.
-
Prepare the Baking Dish
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a 9 x 13 inch baking dish, spread a thin layer of enchilada sauce to coat the bottom.
-
Layer the Tortillas and Beef
- Lay two flour tortillas on the bottom of the baking dish, overlapping them in the middle to cover the entire surface.
- Spread about one-third of the seasoned beef mixture over the tortillas.
- Sprinkle about one-fourth of your cheese blend over the beef.
-
Add Enchilada Sauce
- Drizzle a modest amount of enchilada sauce over the cheese and beef. Use about one-fourth of your sauce. It’s important not to use too much, as you don’t want the lasagna to become overly saucy.
-
Repeat Layers
- Continue layering tortillas, seasoned beef, cheese, and enchilada sauce two more times, ending with a layer of tortillas on top.
-
Finish with Sauce and Cheese
- Spread the remaining enchilada sauce over the top layer of tortillas.
- Cover generously with the remaining cheese.
-
Bake the Lasagna
- Cover the baking dish with a lid or aluminum foil.
- Bake in the preheated oven for about 30 minutes.
-
Melt and Bubble
- Remove the lid or foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
-
Rest and Serve
- Allow the lasagna to sit for about 10 minutes before cutting it into squares. This resting time helps it set and makes it easier to serve.
-
Personalize at the Table
- Serve with shredded lettuce, chopped green onion, sliced black olives, diced tomatoes, sour cream, and salsa.
- Each person can customize their slice to their taste!
Tips and Variations
1. Customize the Protein
While the recipe calls for ground beef, you can easily substitute with other proteins:
- Chicken: Use seasoned shredded chicken or pre-cooked chicken strips.
- Vegetarian: Substitute the beef with a combination of black beans, corn, and bell peppers for a vegetarian version. Ensure to season them well to add depth of flavor.
2. Cheese Choices
A good cheese blend makes a difference:
- Traditional: Use a mix of shredded Cheddar and Monterey Jack.
- For a Kick: Add a little Pepper Jack cheese for a spicy note.
- Authentic Touch: Queso Blanco or a Mexican blend from your local store.
3. Tortilla Types
- Flour Tortillas: The recipe uses flour tortillas, but you can use corn tortillas if you prefer, which offer a slightly different texture and flavor.
4. Enchilada Sauce
- Homemade: If you have time, consider making your own enchilada sauce for a more personalized flavor.
- Store-bought: Store-bought sauces are perfectly fine and save time.
5. Additional Toppings
You can further customize your lasagna with toppings like:
- Guacamole: Adds a creamy and tangy flavor.
- Jalapeños: Fresh or pickled for a spicy kick.
- Cilantro: Fresh chopped cilantro adds a burst of freshness.
6. Layer Addition
- Beans and Corn: Adding a layer of refried beans or whole black beans can increase the heartiness of the lasagna.
- Rice: Incorporate a layer of Spanish rice for added texture and flavor.
7. Serving Suggestions
- Sides: Serve with a simple side salad or some Mexican rice.
- Beverages: A cold cerveza (beer) or a refreshing margarita pairs wonderfully with the lasagna.
- Dessert: Consider serving a light dessert like churros or flan to complete the meal.
8. Storing and Reheating
- Leftovers: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Reheating: Reheat individual portions in the microwave, or the entire dish in a 350°F oven until warmed through.
9. Freezing
- Make-Ahead: This dish can be assembled and frozen before baking. When ready to use, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and then bake as directed.
- Freeze Portions: Alternatively, freeze portions for an easy lunch or dinner option. Thaw in the refrigerator or microwave and then heat.
Nutritional Information (per serving)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 401.7 |
| Fat | 17.3 g |
| Saturated Fat | 5.9 g |
| Cholesterol | 51.4 mg |
| Sodium | 537.5 mg |
| Carbohydrates | 39.4 g |
| Fiber | 2.4 g |
| Sugar | 1.5 g |
| Protein | 20.4 g |
Note: Nutritional values are approximate and can vary based on ingredient brands and specific quantities used.
Final Thoughts
Indiana Mexican Lasagna combines the hearty appeal of lasagna with vibrant Mexican flavors, creating a dish that’s sure to please a crowd. Its versatility allows for a range of customizations, making it adaptable to various dietary preferences and tastes. Whether you’re hosting a family dinner or looking for a satisfying weeknight meal, this recipe is a convenient and flavorful option that’s bound to become a favorite. Enjoy experimenting with different ingredients and toppings to make it your own!
Feel free to share this recipe with friends and family, or save it for a special occasion. Enjoy the process of making and sharing this delicious meal!
