Spicy Mexican Layered Enchilada Casserole

Welcome to a culinary fusion extravaganza with a twist – Mexican Lasagna! If you’re looking to shake up your taco night routine, this recipe is a game-changer. Picture layers of seasoned ground beef, black beans, gooey melted cheese, and that unmistakable Mexican flair, all sandwiched between corn tortillas instead of pasta. The result? A fiesta for your taste buds that feels like a comforting hug on a plate.

Inspired by the need to breathe new life into stale corn tortillas and break the monotony of regular taco nights, this Mexican Lasagna is a crowd-pleaser that even the pickiest eaters can’t resist. Bursting with flavor and heartiness, this casserole-style dish has earned rave reviews from teenagers, critical in-laws, and everyone in between. The secret? Letting those familiar Mexican flavors meld together, creating a dish that tastes even better as leftovers – if there are any left, that is!

Embrace the versatility of this recipe by experimenting with different proteins, veggies, or cheese blends to suit your palate. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or simply craving a cozy family meal, this Mexican Lasagna is a surefire way to impress and satisfy even the most discerning of taste buds. So, gather your ingredients, layer up those tortillas, and get ready to savor a symphony of flavors in every bite. Ole!

Quick Benefits

• Creative fusion of Mexican flavors and lasagna concept
• Versatile – can use different proteins and vegetables for variety
• Make-ahead friendly – keeps well in the fridge and reheats beautifully
• Crowd-pleaser – appeals to both kids and adults at gatherings

Why You’ll Love This Spicy Mexican Layered Enchilada Casserole Recipe

• Innovative Fusion of Flavors: Combines the best of Mexican cuisine with the comforting format of a classic lasagna, offering a unique twist on traditional taco night.
• Family and Crowd Pleaser: Loved by teenagers, picky eaters, and even critical in-laws, this dish is sure to impress a variety of palates and is perfect for gatherings.
• Versatile and Customizable: Easily adaptable with different proteins, vegetables, and cheese combinations, allowing for personalization to suit individual tastes.
• Make-Ahead Convenience: Can be assembled ahead of time, refrigerated, and then baked when needed, making it an ideal dish for busy schedules or entertaining.
• Flavorful Leftovers: Tastes even better the next day as the flavors meld together, providing delicious and satisfying meals for days to come.
• Creative Use of Ingredients: Repurposes stale corn tortillas into a flavorful and textured layer that enhances the overall dish, showcasing the beauty of resourcefulness in cooking.

Ingredients for Spicy Mexican Layered Enchilada Casserole

For the meat filling

• 15 ounce can black beans, drained and rinsed
• 1 medium yellow onion, diced
• ¼ cup taco seasoning (2 packets)
• 1 pound ground beef
• 2 teaspoons minced garlic (about 2 cloves)
• 4 ounce can green chiles
• 14.5 ounce can fire roasted diced tomatoes (don’t drain)
• ½ cup water

For assembly

• 6 cups shredded jack and cheddar cheese blend
• 18 corn tortillas

For serving

• 1-2 medium tomatoes, diced
• 1 bunch green onions, sliced
• Sour cream

How to Make Spicy Mexican Layered Enchilada Casserole

Step 1: Prepare for baking

Preheat oven to 350°F. Grease a 9×13 inch baking dish with cooking spray.

Step 2: Cook the meat base

In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef and diced onion until the meat is no longer pink and the onions are soft.

Step 3: Add garlic and seasonings

Add minced garlic to the pan, cook for 1 minute, then add taco seasoning, water, and stir to combine.

Step 4: Complete the filling

Combine diced tomatoes with juices, green chilies, and drained black beans. Stir and heat through.

Step 5: Start the first layer

Place 6 corn tortillas in the baking dish, overlapping slightly to cover the entire bottom.

Step 6: Build the layers

Layer one-third of the meat mixture over the tortillas, followed by 2 cups of cheese. Repeat layering process twice more to create three layers in total.

Step 7: Bake the lasagna

Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake for 30-40 minutes until the casserole is bubbling and the cheese has melted.

Step 8: Rest and serve

Allow the lasagna to rest for 10 minutes before slicing. Garnish with diced tomatoes and green onions, and serve with sour cream.

Storage Tips

After preparing the Mexican Lasagna, it is best to store any leftovers properly to maintain its flavors and texture. You can store the finished dish in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. When reheating, cover the lasagna with foil to prevent it from drying out and heat it in the oven or microwave until it’s heated through.

For longer storage, you can assemble the Mexican Lasagna completely and refrigerate it before baking. This way, you can have it ready to bake whenever you need it. Simply add some extra cooking time to ensure it heats through properly. By storing and reheating the lasagna correctly, you can enjoy the delicious flavors and comforting layers even more the next day as the flavors meld together beautifully.

Ingredient Substitutions

For a lighter option, consider swapping the ground beef with ground turkey or chicken. This substitution can reduce the fat content while still providing a flavorful protein base for the Mexican lasagna. Additionally, if you prefer a spicier kick, you can incorporate jalapeños or bell peppers into the meat mixture for added heat and a boost of vegetables.

To experiment with different flavor profiles, try using alternative cheese blends such as pepper jack or queso blanco instead of the traditional jack and cheddar mix. These cheeses can offer a unique taste and texture to the dish. Moreover, if you want to enhance the richness of the lasagna, consider adding a layer of refried beans between the tortillas for added depth of flavor and creaminess.

Serving Suggestions

For a creative serving suggestion, try topping each slice of Mexican lasagna with a dollop of fresh guacamole and a sprinkle of chopped cilantro to add a burst of freshness and color. The creamy guacamole pairs perfectly with the cheesy layers and adds a delightful twist to each bite.

To elevate the dish further, serve the Mexican lasagna with a side of tangy salsa and a refreshing cucumber salad dressed with lime juice, salt, and a hint of chili powder. The combination of the zesty salsa, cool cucumber salad, and flavorful lasagna creates a well-rounded meal that is sure to impress your guests and make for a memorable dining experience.

FAQs for Spicy Mexican Layered Enchilada Casserole

Can I use flour tortillas instead of corn tortillas for this recipe?

While corn tortillas are traditionally used in this Mexican lasagna recipe to add a distinct flavor and texture, you can certainly substitute flour tortillas if you prefer. Just keep in mind that flour tortillas might alter the overall taste and texture of the dish slightly.

Can I make this Mexican lasagna ahead of time and freeze it?

Yes, you can assemble the Mexican lasagna ahead of time, cover it tightly with foil, and freeze it before baking. When you’re ready to enjoy it, allow it to thaw in the refrigerator overnight and then bake it according to the recipe instructions. You may need to extend the baking time slightly since you are starting with a cold dish.

Are there any vegetarian alternatives for the ground beef in this recipe?

For a vegetarian version of this Mexican lasagna, you can substitute the ground beef with plant-based alternatives like crumbled tofu, meatless ground crumbles, or a mixture of lentils and mushrooms. Make sure to season your vegetarian protein option well to ensure it complements the other flavors in the dish.

Can I adjust the level of spiciness in this Mexican lasagna?

Absolutely! You can easily adjust the level of spiciness in this recipe by modifying the amount of taco seasoning, green chiles, or adding additional ingredients like jalapeños or hot sauce to suit your taste preferences. Feel free to customize the heat level to make it as mild or spicy as you like.

Conclusion

In conclusion, Mexican Lasagna is a true crowd-pleaser that offers a delightful twist on traditional lasagna. Its layers of seasoned ground beef, black beans, melted cheese, and Mexican flavors create a comforting and satisfying meal that will have your family and friends coming back for more. Don’t hesitate to experiment with different ingredients to customize this dish to your liking, whether it’s swapping the protein, adding extra vegetables, or trying out unique cheese combinations.

Remember to let the lasagna rest before serving to ensure clean slices and to savor all the delicious flavors in each bite. Whether you’re preparing this dish for a casual weeknight dinner or a festive gathering, Mexican Lasagna is a versatile and flavorful option that is sure to impress. So roll up your sleeves, gather your ingredients, and get ready to enjoy this delicious fusion of Mexican and Italian cuisines in one fantastic dish.