Layered Taco Lasagna That Breaks All the Rules (and Tastes Incredible)
This taco lasagna is a layered weeknight hero, packed with seasoned beef, melty cheese, and tortillas—all baked into one cozy, cheesy dish. Perfect for feeding a crowd or meal-prepping ahead of time, this recipe delivers big Tex-Mex flavor in every slice.
Ingredients
- Flour tortillas 6–8: Soft taco size works best.
- Ground beef 1 lb: Or sub ground turkey or plant-based crumbles.
- Onion 1 small, diced: For depth.
- Bell pepper 1 small, diced: Adds sweetness and color.
- Corn kernels 1/2 cup: Optional, but gives great texture.
- Taco seasoning 1 packet or homemade: Spice blend with chili powder, cumin, garlic powder.
- Diced tomatoes 1 can: Adds moisture and tang.
- Salsa 1/2 cup: Choose your heat level.
- Cheddar or Mexican blend cheese 2 cups shredded: Melty and rich.
- Olive oil 1 tbsp: For sautéing.
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 375°F. Lightly grease a 9×13 baking dish.
- Cook the meat: In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium. Sauté onions and bell peppers until soft (3–5 min). Add ground beef, break it up, and cook until browned. Drain excess grease.
- Spice it up: Stir in taco seasoning, corn, diced tomatoes, and salsa. Simmer for 5–7 minutes until thickened slightly.
- Layer: Start with a layer of tortillas at the bottom of the dish. Add 1/3 of the meat mixture, sprinkle cheese. Repeat for 2–3 layers, ending with cheese.
- Bake: Cover loosely with foil and bake for 20 minutes. Remove foil and bake 10 more minutes until cheese is golden.
- Rest & serve: Let it sit 10 minutes before slicing.
Notes
Secret Tips for the Best Taco Lasagna
- Use Toasted Tortillas for Structure: Lightly toast the flour tortillas in a dry skillet before layering. This adds structure and helps prevent sogginess from the salsa and beef juices.
- Add a Creamy Layer: For a richer taste, spread a thin layer of seasoned sour cream or cream cheese between the meat and tortillas. It creates a creamy contrast that balances the bold taco flavors.
- Double the Cheese Strategy: Mix sharp cheddar with Monterey Jack or pepper jack for the best melt and flavor blend. Reserve a little cheese for a bubbly golden top layer.
- Let It Rest Before Cutting: After baking, let your taco lasagna rest for 10–15 minutes before slicing. This helps it hold together like a traditional lasagna instead of falling apart.
- Boost Flavor with Fresh Herbs: Top with chopped cilantro and green onions after baking for a fresh, zesty finish that brightens the whole dish.
- Spice It Up with Hidden Heat: Mix in a pinch of cayenne or a splash of chipotle sauce to the beef for smoky heat. Or layer in pickled jalapeños for spicy surprise bites.
- Meal Prep Hero: Assemble the entire lasagna a day ahead, cover tightly, and refrigerate. Bake it fresh when you're ready—just add 10 extra minutes to the cooking time.
- Add a Crunchy Topper: Sprinkle crushed tortilla chips on top during the last 5 minutes of baking for a fun and satisfying crunch.
- Swap the Meat (or Skip It): Ground turkey, shredded chicken, or even plant-based crumbles work great. Just make sure to season generously with taco spice.
- Serve with a Twist: Offer lime wedges and hot sauce on the side. That tangy finish really makes the cheesy layers pop.