Taco Lasagna
This taco lasagna is saucy, cheesy and delicious. Try this fun twist on your traditional lasagna with lots of Mexican flavors, yet still an easy weeknight and family-friendly meal.
This taco lasagna is saucy, cheesy and delicious. Try this fun twist on your traditional lasagna with lots of Mexican flavors, yet still an easy weeknight and family-friendly meal.
- 1 egg
- 1 lb ground beef
- 15 oz ricotta cheese
- 1 large onion (chopped)
- 2 green onions (chopped)
- 1 green bell pepper (chopped)
- 7 oz taco sauce (i used club house (1 jar))
- 10 oz enchilada sauce ((1 can))
- 2 1/2 cups cheddar cheese (i used mexican blend)
- 9 lasagna noodles (no boil (about half a package))
- 1/2 cup cherry tomatoes (chopped)
- 2 tbsp fresh cilantro (chopped)
- 1 avocado (sliced)
- Carbohydrate 2.7344790387625 g
- Cholesterol 55.033511751875 mg
- Fat 12.7097705822687 g
- Fiber 0.00174999997019768 g
- Protein 16.5960789749188 g
- Saturated Fat 5.94493918390688 g
- Serving Size 1 1 Serving (170g)
- Sodium 103.894315290625 mg
- Sugar 2.7327290387923 g
- Trans Fat 1.43485330326062 g
- Calories 195 calories
Step-by-step
- Preheat oven to 375 F degrees.
- Add the ground beef to a large skillet and brown it over medium-high heat until it's no longer pink, breaking it up as you go along.
- Add the chopped onion and bell pepper to the skillet and let it cook for about 3 minutes, until the onion is translucent and the pepper is tender.
- Stir in the taco sauce and enchilada sauce and bring to a boil. Remove from heat.
- In another medium size bowl, whisk together the ricotta cheese, egg and 1/2 cup of the cheddar cheese.
- Start layering the lasagna in a 9x13-inch baking dish. Start with a layer of 3 lasagna noodles, then add 1/2 of the meat sauce over the noodles.
- Next add 3 more lasagna noodles, then spread the ricotta mixture over the noodles.
- Add 3 more lasagna noodles, then the remaining meat sauce.
- Top with the remaining 2 cups of cheese.
- Bake uncovered for 30 minutes or until the cheese melts and gets bubbly and the noodles are cooked through.
- Let cool for about 10 minutes before slicing it then top with tomatoes, onions, cilantro and avocados.
Taco Lasagna: A Weeknight Family Favorite
As a busy working mom, finding time to cook a delicious and satisfying dinner can feel like a Herculean task. Weeknights are a whirlwind of school pick-ups, homework help, and the constant juggle of work and family responsibilities. I've learned that the key to sanity (and happy tummies) is to have a few go-to recipes that are quick, easy, and don't compromise on flavor. This Taco Lasagna is my latest discovery – a game-changer for busy weeknights.
The best part? It's incredibly versatile. It satisfies the whole family, even the pickiest eaters. My kids adore the cheesy, saucy goodness, and it’s a surprisingly healthy meal given all the veggies you can sneak in. I often add extra vegetables to the meat sauce - finely diced zucchini or carrots add moisture and nutrients without altering the flavor profile too dramatically. The process itself is simple enough to get even the kids involved, turning meal prep into a fun family activity.
I love how this recipe takes the familiar comfort of lasagna and gives it a vibrant Mexican twist. The combination of taco and enchilada sauces creates a rich, flavorful base, perfectly complemented by the creamy ricotta and the sharp cheddar cheese. The toppings are where I really get creative. Sometimes I add a dollop of sour cream or Greek yogurt for extra tang, or even a sprinkle of your favorite hot sauce for those who enjoy a little kick.
Beyond the Weeknight Wonders: This recipe is also great for meal prepping. You can assemble the lasagna ahead of time and bake it when you're ready. This is a lifesaver on those crazy busy days when you're running late. The leftovers are also amazing! I often pack it for lunch the next day. It reheats perfectly in the microwave or oven, maintaining its delicious flavor and texture.
Tips and Tricks for Taco Lasagna Success:
- No-boil lasagna noodles: These are a total time-saver. You don't have to pre-cook them, which simplifies the process significantly.
- Spice it up: Feel free to adjust the amount of taco and enchilada sauce to suit your spice preference. I often add a pinch of chili powder or cumin for an extra layer of flavor.
- Get creative with toppings: Experiment with different toppings like jalapeños, black olives, or shredded lettuce to add more texture and flavor.
- Make it your own: Don't be afraid to substitute ingredients based on what you have on hand. Ground turkey or chicken can easily replace the beef, for example.
- Double the recipe: This lasagna freezes incredibly well, making it ideal for batch cooking. Prepare a double batch and pop half in the freezer for a future weeknight dinner.
This Taco Lasagna isn’t just a recipe; it's a testament to the power of simple, flavorful meals that bring people together. It's a recipe that has become a staple in our home, saving time and energy without sacrificing taste or quality. So, the next time you're feeling overwhelmed by a busy week, remember this recipe – it’s your ticket to a delicious and stress-free dinner.
