Why You’ll Love This Easy Baked Taco Lasagna
If you’re looking for a quick, delicious, and fuss-free dinner, this easy baked taco lasagna is your answer. The best part? You don’t even need to brown the ground beef! This recipe combines the flavors of tacos and lasagna into one cheesy, comforting dish that’s perfect for busy weeknights or feeding a crowd. Plus, it’s made with just 5 simple ingredients—yes, you read that right!
What Makes This Recipe So Easy?
The secret to this recipe is skipping the step of browning the ground beef. Instead, you’ll use pre-seasoned taco meat or a quick mix of taco seasoning and raw ground beef, which cooks perfectly as the lasagna bakes. This saves time and cleanup, making it a go-to recipe for busy families. Layers of tortillas, cheese, and flavorful meat create a dish that’s hearty, satisfying, and oh-so-easy to make.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Here’s what you’ll need to make this easy baked taco lasagna:
- 1 lb ground beef (no need to pre-cook!)
- 1 packet taco seasoning (or 2 tablespoons homemade taco seasoning)
- 1 cup salsa (mild or spicy, depending on your preference)
- 8-10 small flour tortillas (or corn tortillas for a gluten-free option)
- 2 cups shredded cheese (cheddar, Mexican blend, or your favorite)
- Optional toppings: sour cream, diced tomatoes, green onions, cilantro
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Preheat Your Oven: Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Prepare the Meat Mixture: In a bowl, combine the raw ground beef, taco seasoning, and salsa. Mix well until the beef is evenly coated.
- Layer the Lasagna: In a 9×13-inch baking dish, spread a thin layer of the meat mixture on the bottom. Place a layer of tortillas over the meat, cutting them to fit if needed. Add another layer of meat mixture, followed by a sprinkle of cheese. Repeat the layers until all ingredients are used, finishing with a layer of cheese on top.
- Bake: Cover the dish with foil and bake for 25 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden.
- Serve and Enjoy: Let the lasagna cool for 5 minutes before slicing. Serve with your favorite toppings like sour cream, diced tomatoes, or fresh cilantro.
Tips for the Best Taco Lasagna
- Use High-Quality Salsa: The salsa adds moisture and flavor, so choose one you love.
- Customize the Heat: Adjust the spiciness by using mild or hot salsa and taco seasoning.
- Make It Ahead: Assemble the lasagna ahead of time and refrigerate until ready to bake.
Why This Recipe Works
This easy baked taco lasagna is a winner because it’s quick, customizable, and packed with flavor. By skipping the browning step, you save time without sacrificing taste. It’s a versatile dish that can be adapted to suit your family’s preferences, making it a reliable go-to for any night of the week.
Pairing Suggestions
This taco lasagna pairs perfectly with:
- Mexican Corn Salad: A fresh and zesty side dish.
- Guacamole and Chips: For a fun appetizer or snack.
- Cilantro Lime Rice: A flavorful addition to your meal.
To make this recipe even easier, here are a few tools and ingredients I recommend:
- Taco Seasoning: High-quality seasoning for the best flavor. Buy it here.
- Baking Dish: A durable 9×13-inch dish for even baking. Buy it here.
- Tortilla Warmer: Keep your tortillas soft and warm. Buy it here.
Easy Baked Taco Lasagna
Equipment
- 9×13-inch baking dish
- Mixing bowl
- Foil
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 packet taco seasoning
- 1 cup salsa
- 8-10 small flour tortillas
- 2 cups shredded cheese
- Optional toppings: sour cream diced tomatoes, green onions, cilantro
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Mix ground beef, taco seasoning, and salsa in a bowl.
- Layer meat mixture, tortillas, and cheese in a baking dish.
- Cover with foil and bake for 25 minutes.
- Uncover and bake for 10-15 minutes until cheese is golden.
- Let cool slightly, then serve with toppings.
Have you tried this easy baked taco lasagna recipe? Share your thoughts in the comments below! Don’t forget to pin this recipe for later and follow us for more delicious ideas. Happy cooking!