Mexican Lasagna | Can't Stay Out of the Kitchen | this awesome #lasagna has a #TexMex twist that's irresistible. It's so easy since you don't have to pre-cook the #noodles. Perfect for company & #holiday dinners. #CincoDeMayo #beef #cheese

Mexican Lasagna

Teresa Ambra

Mexican Lasagna is awesome. The beef mixture includes refried beans, diced green chilies and taco seasoning and is layered between noodles cheese. Then a salsa mixture is poured over top before baking. And get this, NEWS FLASH: You don’t have to pre-cook the noodles!

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After the casserole is baked the topping is added: sour cream, cheese, green onions, olives and tomatoes, if desired. The taste is utterly amazing. While lasagnas are a little more work than some casseroles, this one is one of the best.

We entertain a lot and I love trying out new recipes on people. I remember we had a houseful of company one evening when I served this and everyone raved over it. In fact, every time I’ve made this recipe it’s been for company! It’s a great recipe to make, especially if you enjoy different types of lasagna and appreciate a Tex-Mex version instead. Not having to pre-cook the lasagna noodles sure is an advantage and definitely saves time.

I made this again yesterday, so I’m going to include updated pictures of how I did this. The recipe is inspired from Taste of Home’s Ground Beef cookbook. This casserole is fantastic and very worthy of being added to your lasagna or Tex-Mex collections.

When I originally posted this recipe in June 2012, I was in the first couple of weeks of food blogging. I updated the pictures again in August 2012, and they were really of poor quality. I was using a cheap iPhone 3 camera at the time, and I didn’t hold the camera very steady, causing blurry pictures. On top of that, I knew next to nothing about food presentation or food photography so the lasagna didn’t show to the best advantage.

I recently remade this fabulous casserole for company again (January 2015), and served it along with Butternut Squash Bake, Corn and Green Bean Casserole and Raspberry Almond Bars along with another dessert. Our guests brought salad, Guacamole and homemade salsa. We had plenty of food and they kept packing it in! 🙂 Even one of the kids said this was the best lasagna he’d ever eaten.

This is a great lasagna but let me provide a few tips before making this so you can have a good outcome. 1) It is crucial that you spread about a cup of the meat sauce on the bottom of a well greased baking dish before layering the noodles. Otherwise the noodles will stick to the bottom of the pan and you will have to use a chisel to get them out! 🙂

2) You can’t add extra layers and noodles to this recipe, because the salsa/water mixture that’s poured over the top is only enough juice to cook about three layers of noodles. I recommend removing the cup (or more) of beef for the bottom layer, then dividing the remaining meat into three portions for each remaining layer. (Don’t just dab the meat on like you see in my pictures).

3) Cover the casserole while baking so the noodles don’t dry out.

4) The casserole should ideally sit out for 10 minutes before cutting into it.

5) If you prefer, you can mix the salsa with enchilada sauce instead of water like I did for this recipe. It will provide even zestier taste. Serve with Guacamole, Hot Sauce, Pico de Gallo, sour cream and tortilla chips and you have a main dish meal to rave over.

Mexican Lasagna | Can't Stay Out of the Kitchen | this awesome #lasagna has a #TexMex twist that's irresistible. It's so easy since you don't have to pre-cook the #noodles. Perfect for company & #holiday dinners. #CincoDeMayo #beef #cheese

Mexican Lasagna is one of the best Tex-Mex style casseroles we’ve ever eaten.

Mexican Lasagna | Can't Stay Out of the Kitchen | this awesome #lasagna has a #TexMex twist that's irresistible. It's so easy since you don't have to pre-cook the #noodles. Perfect for company & #holiday dinners. #CincoDeMayo #beef #cheese

Mexican Lasagna is filled with a Tex-Mex style beef sauce, then it’s layered with sour cream, cheese, olives, tomatoes and green onions for incredibly wonderful taste.

Mexican Lasagna | Can't Stay Out of the Kitchen | this awesome #lasagna has a #TexMex twist that's irresistible. It's so easy since you don't have to pre-cook the #noodles. Perfect for company & #holiday dinners. #CincoDeMayo #beef #cheese

We love this hearty beef entree. The flavors just work so well together.

Mexican Lasagna | Can't Stay Out of the Kitchen | this awesome #lasagna has a #TexMex twist that's irresistible. It's so easy since you don't have to pre-cook the #noodles. Perfect for company & #holiday dinners. #CincoDeMayo #beef #cheese

We served Mexican Lasagna with Homemade Salsa, Guacamole, sour cream and extra cheese.

Here’s what I did.

Mexican Lasagna | Can't Stay Out of the Kitchen | this awesome #lasagna has a #TexMex twist that's irresistible. It's so easy since you don't have to pre-cook the #noodles. Perfect for company & #holiday dinners. #CincoDeMayo #beef #cheese

I used these ingredients.

Mexican Lasagna | Can't Stay Out of the Kitchen | this awesome #lasagna has a #TexMex twist that's irresistible. It's so easy since you don't have to pre-cook the #noodles. Perfect for company & #holiday dinners. #CincoDeMayo #beef #cheese

Brown 2 pounds of lean ground beef or sirloin in skillet. Drain off any grease. Add diced chilies, refried beans, taco seasoning, and 2 heaping tablespoonfuls of salsa and stir together.

Mexican Lasagna | Can't Stay Out of the Kitchen | this awesome #lasagna has a #TexMex twist that's irresistible. It's so easy since you don't have to pre-cook the #noodles. Perfect for company & #holiday dinners. #CincoDeMayo #beef #cheese

Stir together and set aside.

Mexican Lasagna | Can't Stay Out of the Kitchen | this awesome #lasagna has a #TexMex twist that's irresistible. It's so easy since you don't have to pre-cook the #noodles. Perfect for company & #holiday dinners. #CincoDeMayo #beef #cheese

Spray a 9×13″ glass baking dish heavily with cooking spray.

Spread at least one cup of beef mixture on bottom of the baking dish to prevent the noodles from sticking. 

Place 4 lasagna noodles over top. Spread one-third of the meat mixture over top of the noodles. Sprinkle with 1 cup sharp cheddar cheese, Colby Jack or Monterey Jack cheese.

I just dabbed the meat on this layer and ended up using tons of meat on the last couple of layers.

Mexican Lasagna | Can't Stay Out of the Kitchen | this awesome #lasagna has a #TexMex twist that's irresistible. It's so easy since you don't have to pre-cook the #noodles. Perfect for company & #holiday dinners. #CincoDeMayo #beef #cheese

Repeat layer of noodles, meat and cheese.

Mexican Lasagna | Can't Stay Out of the Kitchen | this awesome #lasagna has a #TexMex twist that's irresistible. It's so easy since you don't have to pre-cook the #noodles. Perfect for company & #holiday dinners. #CincoDeMayo #beef #cheese

Repeat layers again.

Mexican Lasagna | Can't Stay Out of the Kitchen | this awesome #lasagna has a #TexMex twist that's irresistible. It's so easy since you don't have to pre-cook the #noodles. Perfect for company & #holiday dinners. #CincoDeMayo #beef #cheese

Here is the fourth layer. Notice how much more beef is on this layer than the first layer! 🙂

Mexican Lasagna | Can't Stay Out of the Kitchen | this awesome #lasagna has a #TexMex twist that's irresistible. It's so easy since you don't have to pre-cook the #noodles. Perfect for company & #holiday dinners. #CincoDeMayo #beef #cheese

Mix remaining salsa with 2 cups water (or use enchilada sauce for zestier flavor). Stir to combine.

Mexican Lasagna | Can't Stay Out of the Kitchen | this awesome #lasagna has a #TexMex twist that's irresistible. It's so easy since you don't have to pre-cook the #noodles. Perfect for company & #holiday dinners. #CincoDeMayo #beef #cheese

Pour salsa mixture over top of casserole. 

Mexican Lasagna | Can't Stay Out of the Kitchen | this awesome #lasagna has a #TexMex twist that's irresistible. It's so easy since you don't have to pre-cook the #noodles. Perfect for company & #holiday dinners. #CincoDeMayo #beef #cheese

The salsa and extra water/sauce is added so the noodles will have enough moisture and juice to cook while baking the recipe but without precooking. 

Mexican Lasagna | Can't Stay Out of the Kitchen | this awesome #lasagna has a #TexMex twist that's irresistible. It's so easy since you don't have to pre-cook the #noodles. Perfect for company & #holiday dinners. #CincoDeMayo #beef #cheese

Cover casserole tightly with foil and bake in 350 oven for 1 to 1 1/2 hours. (Mine took almost 2 hours to be finished because I was cooking several casseroles at once).

Mexican Lasagna | Can't Stay Out of the Kitchen | this awesome #lasagna has a #TexMex twist that's irresistible. It's so easy since you don't have to pre-cook the #noodles. Perfect for company & #holiday dinners. #CincoDeMayo #beef #cheese

Once the noodles are tender, spread sour cream over top.

Mexican Lasagna | Can't Stay Out of the Kitchen | this awesome #lasagna has a #TexMex twist that's irresistible. It's so easy since you don't have to pre-cook the #noodles. Perfect for company & #holiday dinners. #CincoDeMayo #beef #cheese

Sprinkle with cheese.

Mexican Lasagna | Can't Stay Out of the Kitchen | this awesome #lasagna has a #TexMex twist that's irresistible. It's so easy since you don't have to pre-cook the #noodles. Perfect for company & #holiday dinners. #CincoDeMayo #beef #cheese

Now add sliced ripe olives, green onions and diced tomatoes.

Mexican Lasagna | Can't Stay Out of the Kitchen | this awesome #lasagna has a #TexMex twist that's irresistible. It's so easy since you don't have to pre-cook the #noodles. Perfect for company & #holiday dinners. #CincoDeMayo #beef #cheese

Bake about 5 minutes or until cheese is melted. Set out about 10 minutes before cutting.

Mexican Lasagna | Can't Stay Out of the Kitchen | this awesome #lasagna has a #TexMex twist that's irresistible. It's so easy since you don't have to pre-cook the #noodles. Perfect for company & #holiday dinners. #CincoDeMayo #beef #cheese

Mexican Lasagna is heavenly if you enjoy a Tex-Mex twist in your food.

Mexican Lasagna | Can't Stay Out of the Kitchen | this awesome #lasagna has a #TexMex twist that's irresistible. It's so easy since you don't have to pre-cook the #noodles. Perfect for company & #holiday dinners. #CincoDeMayo #beef #cheese

Dig in. Oh, this is so good!

Mexican Lasagna | Can't Stay Out of the Kitchen | this awesome #lasagna has a #TexMex twist that's irresistible. It's so easy since you don't have to pre-cook the #noodles. Perfect for company & #holiday dinners. #CincoDeMayo #beef #cheese

Mexican Lasagna is great served with Guacamole and Pico de Gallo.

Mexican Lasagna | Can't Stay Out of the Kitchen | this awesome #lasagna has a #TexMex twist that's irresistible. It's so easy since you don't have to pre-cook the #noodles. Perfect for company & #holiday dinners. #CincoDeMayo #beef #cheese

Every bite is absolutely mouthwatering.

Here’s the recipe.

MEXICAN LASAGNA

(Recipe inspired from Taste of Home’s Ground Beef Cookbook)

Mexican Lasagna | Can't Stay Out of the Kitchen | this awesome #lasagna has a #TexMex twist that's irresistible. It's so easy since you don't have to pre-cook the #noodles. Perfect for company & #holiday dinners. #CincoDeMayo #beef #cheese

Mexican Lasagna

Teresa Ambra
This amazing lasagna recipe with Tex-Mex flair is fantastic. This family favorite entree has a beef mixture that includes refried beans and chilies. The recipe is layered with noodles and cheese and has a salsa layer before adding sour cream, cheese, green onions, olives and tomatoes for the topping. It's perfect for company or holiday dinners like Cinco De Mayo.
3.68 from 73 votes
Prep Time 30 minutes
Cook Time 1 minute
Total Time 31 minutes
Course Beef Main Dish/Pasta
Cuisine Tex-Mex
Servings 12
Calories 523 kcal

Equipment

  • 1 deep dish 9x13" glass baking dish
  • 1 large skillet
  • 1 hamburger chopper to cut meat down in small pieces while frying
  • 1 spatula
  • measuring cups
  • measuring spoons
  • 1 sharp knife to cut vegetables
  • 1 wooden spoon
  • 1 small bowl

Ingredients
  

  • 2 lbs. 93% or 96% lean ground beef
  • 16 oz. can refried beans
  • 4 oz. can green chilies chopped
  • 1 pkg. taco seasoning or Homemade Taco Seasoning
  • 16 oz. bag Colby Jack cheese shredded, divided use
  • 16 oz. box uncooked lasagna noodles
  • 24 oz. jar mild or medium chunky salsa divided use (or your favorite salsa)
  • 2 cups water see note below
  • 16 oz. ctn. sour cream
  • 2.25 oz. can ripe olives sliced, drained, for garnish
  • 3 green onions chopped, for garnish
  • 3 small roma tomatoes chopped, for garnish

Instructions
 

  • In a skillet, cook beef over medium heat until no longer pink; drain.
  • Use a hamburger chopper to break meat down in small pieces while frying.
  • Add the beans, chilies, taco seasoning and 2 heaping tablespoonfuls salsa; mix well.
  • Heat through over medium heat about 5 minutes.
  • In a well greased deep dish 9x13” baking dish, spread at least a cup of the meat mixture on the bottom to prevent noodles from sticking.
  • Layer a row of four uncooked noodles and spread with one-third of the remaining beef mixture.
  • Sprinkle with 1 cup of cheese.
  • Repeat layers twice.
  • Combine remaining salsa and water in a small bowl; pour over top.
  • Cover and bake at 350° for 1 hour and a half, or until noodles test fork tender.
  • Uncover; top with sour cream, then cheese, then olives, then onions, and finally tomatoes.
  • Bake 5-15 minutes longer—until cheese melts.
  • Let stand 10-15 minutes before cutting.

Notes

NOTE: When pouring salsa/water mixture over top it is imperative that you cover the noodles as much as possible so they don’t get dried out while baking.
 
NOTE: You must spread at least a cup of beef mixture on the bottom of the baking dish or the noodles will stick to the bottom of the pan.
 
NOTE: You can use enchilada sauce with the salsa to pour over top, if desired.
 
NOTE: Since the noodles aren't pre-cooked you cannot add additional layers or there is not enough moisture in the casserole to bake them through sufficiently.
 
NOTE: Baking time is approximate. Your oven may take 1 hour or 2 hours depending on if it runs fast or slow. Check for doneness by pricking noodles with a fork. If the noodles are tender, the casserole is cooked enough.
 
NOTE: If you wish to precook your lasagna noodles, cook only to al dente. Then spread the salsa over top of the casserole WITHOUT mixing it with water. Bake about 30-40 minutes or until casserole is bubbly. Then spread with sour cream, add cheese, green onions, olives and tomatoes. Bake an additional 5-10 minutes or until cheese melts.
 
NOTE: If you prefer to make your own homemade taco seasoning recipe, this is a great that can be made up in 5 minutes.
 
Recipe inspired from Taste of Home.
 
© Can’t Stay Out of the Kitchen

Nutrition

Calories: 523kcalCarbohydrates: 40gProtein: 34gFat: 25gSaturated Fat: 13gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 8gTrans Fat: 0.3gCholesterol: 105mgSodium: 1012mgPotassium: 645mgFiber: 4gSugar: 6gVitamin A: 1114IUVitamin C: 7mgCalcium: 351mgIron: 3mg
Keyword beef, cheese, ground beef, lasagna, olives, pasta, salsa, Tex Mex, tomatoes
Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!

 

[b]Mexican Lasagna[/b]
Recipe Type: Beef Main Dish/Pasta
Cuisine: Tex-Mex
Author: Teresa Ambra inspired from [url href=”http://www.tasteofhome.com/recipes/mexican-lasagna” target=”_blank” title=”mexican lasagna”]Taste of Home[/url]
Prep time:
Cook time:
Total time:
Serves: 10
This amazing lasagna recipe with Tex-Mex flair is fantastic. The beef mixture includes refried beans and chilies. The recipe is layered with noodles and cheese and has a salsa layer before adding sour cream, cheese, green onions, olives and tomatoes for the topping.
Ingredients
  • 2 lbs. 93% lean ground beef
  • 16-oz. can refried beans
  • 4-oz. can chopped green chilies
  • 1 pkg. taco seasoning or Homemade Taco Seasoning
  • 2 8-oz. bags shredded Colby-Jack cheese, divided
  • 16-oz. uncooked lasagna noodles
  • 24-oz. jar [url href=”http://www.pacefoods.com/?pd=yes” target=”_blank” title=”pace chunky salsa”]Pace[/url] mild or medium chunky salsa, divided use
  • 2 cups water (see note below)
  • 16-oz. sour cream
  • 2 ¼-oz. can sliced ripe olives, drained
  • 3 green onions, chopped
  • 3 small roma tomatoes, chopped
Instructions
  1. In a skillet, cook beef over medium heat until no longer pink; drain.
  2. Add the beans, chilies, taco seasoning and 2 heaping tablespoonfuls salsa; mix well.
  3. Heat through over medium heat about 5 minutes.
  4. In a well greased 9×13” baking dish, spread at least a cup of the meat mixture on the bottom to prevent noodles from sticking.
  5. Layer a row of four noodles and spread with one-third of the remaining beef mixture.
  6. Sprinkle with 1 cup of cheese.
  7. Repeat layers twice.
  8. Combine remaining salsa and water; pour over top.
  9. Cover and bake at 350° for 1 hour and a half, or until noodles test fork tender.
  10. Uncover; top with sour cream, then cheese, then olives, then onions, and finally tomatoes.
  11. Bake 5-15 minutes longer—until cheese melts.
  12. Let stand 10-15 minutes before cutting.
Notes
When pouring salsa/water mixture over top it is imperative that you cover the noodles as much as possible so they don’t get dried out while baking.[br][br]You must spread at least a cup of beef mixture on the bottom of the baking dish or the noodles will stick to the bottom of the pan.[br][br]You can use enchilada sauce with the salsa to pour over top, if desired.[br][br]Since the noodles aren’t pre-cooked you cannot add additional layers or there is not enough moisture in the casserole to bake them through sufficiently.[br][br]Baking time is approximate. Your oven may take 1 hour or 2 hours depending on if it runs fast or slow. Check for doneness by pricking noodles with a fork. If the noodles are tender, the casserole is cooked enough.[br][br]If you wish to precook your lasagna noodles, cook only to al dente. Then spread the salsa over top of the casserole [u]WITHOUT[/u] mixing it with water. Bake about 30-40 minutes or until casserole is bubbly. Then spread with sour cream, add cheese, green onions, olives and tomatoes. Bake an additional 5-10 minutes or until cheese melts.
Mexican Lasagna | Can't Stay Out of the Kitchen | this awesome #lasagna has a #TexMex twist that's irresistible. It's so easy since you don't have to pre-cook the #noodles. Perfect for company & #holiday dinners. #CincoDeMayo #beef #cheese

Every bite of Mexican Lasagna is amazing. I love the flavors of salsa, Pico de Gallo, Taco Seasoning and refried beans which give this casserole a superb flavor.

Mexican Lasagna | Can't Stay Out of the Kitchen | this awesome #lasagna has a #TexMex twist that's irresistible. It's so easy since you don't have to pre-cook the #noodles. Perfect for company & #holiday dinners. #CincoDeMayo #beef #cheese

Mexican Lasagna is a great company casserole. Our guests sure loved it.

Mexican Lasagna | Can't Stay Out of the Kitchen | this awesome #lasagna has a #TexMex twist that's irresistible. It's so easy since you don't have to pre-cook the #noodles. Perfect for company & #holiday dinners. #CincoDeMayo #beef #cheese

Prepare to drool!

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Mexican Lasagna | Can't Stay Out of the Kitchen | this awesome #lasagna has a #TexMex twist that's irresistible. It's so easy since you don't have to pre-cook the #noodles. Perfect for company & #holiday dinners. #CincoDeMayo #beef #cheese

Mexican Lasagna

Teresa Ambra
This amazing lasagna recipe with Tex-Mex flair is fantastic. This family favorite entree has a beef mixture that includes refried beans and chilies. The recipe is layered with noodles and cheese and has a salsa layer before adding sour cream, cheese, green onions, olives and tomatoes for the topping. It’s perfect for company or holiday dinners like Cinco De Mayo.
3.68 from 73 votes
Prep Time 30 minutes
Cook Time 1 minute
Total Time 31 minutes
Course Beef Main Dish/Pasta
Cuisine Tex-Mex
Servings 12
Calories 523 kcal

Equipment

  • 1 deep dish 9×13" glass baking dish
  • 1 large skillet
  • 1 hamburger chopper to cut meat down in small pieces while frying
  • 1 spatula
  • measuring cups
  • measuring spoons
  • 1 sharp knife to cut vegetables
  • 1 wooden spoon
  • 1 small bowl

Ingredients
  

  • 2 lbs. 93% or 96% lean ground beef
  • 16 oz. can refried beans
  • 4 oz. can green chilies chopped
  • 1 pkg. taco seasoning or Homemade Taco Seasoning
  • 16 oz. bag Colby Jack cheese shredded, divided use
  • 16 oz. box uncooked lasagna noodles
  • 24 oz. jar mild or medium chunky salsa divided use (or your favorite salsa)
  • 2 cups water see note below
  • 16 oz. ctn. sour cream
  • 2.25 oz. can ripe olives sliced, drained, for garnish
  • 3 green onions chopped, for garnish
  • 3 small roma tomatoes chopped, for garnish

Instructions
 

  • In a skillet, cook beef over medium heat until no longer pink; drain.
  • Use a hamburger chopper to break meat down in small pieces while frying.
  • Add the beans, chilies, taco seasoning and 2 heaping tablespoonfuls salsa; mix well.
  • Heat through over medium heat about 5 minutes.
  • In a well greased deep dish 9×13” baking dish, spread at least a cup of the meat mixture on the bottom to prevent noodles from sticking.
  • Layer a row of four uncooked noodles and spread with one-third of the remaining beef mixture.
  • Sprinkle with 1 cup of cheese.
  • Repeat layers twice.
  • Combine remaining salsa and water in a small bowl; pour over top.
  • Cover and bake at 350° for 1 hour and a half, or until noodles test fork tender.
  • Uncover; top with sour cream, then cheese, then olives, then onions, and finally tomatoes.
  • Bake 5-15 minutes longer—until cheese melts.
  • Let stand 10-15 minutes before cutting.

Notes

NOTE: When pouring salsa/water mixture over top it is imperative that you cover the noodles as much as possible so they don’t get dried out while baking.
 
NOTE: You must spread at least a cup of beef mixture on the bottom of the baking dish or the noodles will stick to the bottom of the pan.
 
NOTE: You can use enchilada sauce with the salsa to pour over top, if desired.
 
NOTE: Since the noodles aren’t pre-cooked you cannot add additional layers or there is not enough moisture in the casserole to bake them through sufficiently.
 
NOTE: Baking time is approximate. Your oven may take 1 hour or 2 hours depending on if it runs fast or slow. Check for doneness by pricking noodles with a fork. If the noodles are tender, the casserole is cooked enough.
 
NOTE: If you wish to precook your lasagna noodles, cook only to al dente. Then spread the salsa over top of the casserole WITHOUT mixing it with water. Bake about 30-40 minutes or until casserole is bubbly. Then spread with sour cream, add cheese, green onions, olives and tomatoes. Bake an additional 5-10 minutes or until cheese melts.
 
NOTE: If you prefer to make your own homemade taco seasoning recipe, this is a great that can be made up in 5 minutes.
 
Recipe inspired from Taste of Home.
 
© Can’t Stay Out of the Kitchen

Nutrition

Calories: 523kcalCarbohydrates: 40gProtein: 34gFat: 25gSaturated Fat: 13gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 8gTrans Fat: 0.3gCholesterol: 105mgSodium: 1012mgPotassium: 645mgFiber: 4gSugar: 6gVitamin A: 1114IUVitamin C: 7mgCalcium: 351mgIron: 3mg
Keyword beef, cheese, ground beef, lasagna, olives, pasta, salsa, Tex Mex, tomatoes
Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!

82 Comments

  • Nellie

    September 8, 2023 at 9:23 am

    5 stars
    I switched a few things up, but this recipe was phenomenal.

    1. Teresa Ambra

      September 9, 2023 at 10:53 am

      So glad you enjoyed the recipe, Nellie. We enjoy it too and it’s great for company dinners since it makes so much.

  • Bruce and Linda

    August 18, 2023 at 12:09 pm

    5 stars
    Really tasty and easy to make! We did substitute one pound of Chorizo for one of the pounds for ground beef and it definitely added some traditional Mexican flavor, along with Street Taco seasoning. We softened the lasagna noodles first to avoid crunchy noodles. We will be making this again. We give this a ‘Two Forks Up!’ rating.

    1. Teresa Ambra

      August 20, 2023 at 9:30 pm

      Hi Bruce and Linda. So glad you enjoyed the recipe. I bet the Chorizo was wonderful and using a Mexican Crema instead of sour cream would also work! Thanks for letting me know. Have a great week.

  • Mary Hess

    June 7, 2022 at 12:20 pm

    I’m going to try this but break up noodles pre cook noodles and just mix it all together. Except for the topping of course. Can’t stand for long periods. I need to freeze half as it’s only my husband and I. I’ll let you know how it works.

    1. Teresa

      June 9, 2022 at 8:24 am

      I’m sure it will but it won’t need to be cooked as long if you pre-cook the noodles. Also you may not need as much liquid. Part of that is so the noodles have enough liquid to cook in.

  • Londa

    May 31, 2022 at 8:28 am

    How appetizing it looks! thanks for the recipe! I was in Mexico about three years ago and fell in love with their great cuisine

    1. Teresa

      May 31, 2022 at 11:25 am

      Hi Londa. This is a great recipe. Everyone always loves it.

  • Mexican Lasagna Will Change Up Your Taco Tuesday

    May 19, 2020 at 11:40 am

    […] For the full recipe visit Can’t Stay Out of The Kitchen here! […]

  • M

    May 14, 2020 at 7:57 am

    You Americanized this Mexican dish, unfortunately. The real Mexican version is much better. It does not include taco seasoning because that does not exist in Mexico and it has the wrong flavor and spices that aren’t used in traditional Mexican food. Also, you used regular lasagna pasta noodles. For the Mexican style of this, you would use corn tortilla chips. Also, I am not sure why you added olives. That ingredient is usually never used in Mexican dishes. I do see that this recipe says “tex-mex” in some places but even this recipe is too far. I think a more accurate title of the recipe would be: A Version of Mexican Lasagna. If you like this recipe, that is totally fine because everyone likes different things, just note, this is nothing like the real dish. I suggest you try the real Mexican dish as well as this recipe.

    1. Teresa

      May 14, 2020 at 5:15 pm

      Hi, “M”. If you look at the bottom of the recipe card, you will notice I adapted this recipe from Taste of Home. Those were the ingredients in their “Mexican Lasagna” recipe. Sorry you don’t like this Americanized version, but it’s really awesome. You’re missing out by not trying it. Enjoy your week.

    2. Kim

      January 15, 2021 at 11:04 am

      You know what they say about opinions… This lasagna is freaking awesome!!!!!!!

      1. Teresa

        January 18, 2021 at 6:25 am

        So glad you enjoy the recipe, Kim!

    3. Nicole G

      September 12, 2021 at 7:59 am

      M, this recipe is fantastic! Why do we have to make things so technical? Chill out. It’s not that serious. It’s only food – some damn good food if you ask me.

      1. Teresa

        September 13, 2021 at 5:48 am

        Hi Nicole, thanks for sharing.

  • Bonnie Blom

    April 7, 2020 at 12:58 pm

    Hi I just wanted to let you know that your website is coming up Not secure. I am a little apprehensive to be on it.

    Thank you
    Bonnie

    1. Teresa

      April 8, 2020 at 1:09 pm

      Hi, bonnie, see my email response.

    2. Teresa

      April 8, 2020 at 2:17 pm

      Hey Bonnie, I had my tech guy check this out and he said that my banner was covering up the HTML line and that’s what was causing it. He’s fixing it as I type. Thanks so much for your concern and letting me know.

  • Eraj Siddiqui

    January 27, 2020 at 2:02 am

    Looks good. Thank you! 🙂

    1. Teresa

      January 27, 2020 at 8:11 am

      This really is good! Thanks for stopping by.

  • marie johson

    October 24, 2019 at 11:05 am

    I love lasagna so much that i could eat it everyday <3 Thanks for this amazing recipe <3

    1. Teresa

      October 26, 2019 at 7:34 am

      Thanks, Marie.

  • Linda

    May 7, 2019 at 12:35 pm

    Can you make this with soft tortillas instead of lasagna noodles? Maybe not add water to last layer with salsa?

    1. Teresa

      May 7, 2019 at 2:54 pm

      Hi Linda. That’s a possibility. Check out my recipe for Tijuana Torte. That one uses tortillas. Perhaps between the two recipes you can find substitutions that work for you.

    2. Debbie Jackson

      May 9, 2019 at 10:22 am

      I made this last night with flour tortillas, I didn’t have lasagna noodles. I didn’t use water. Turned out great.

      1. Teresa

        May 9, 2019 at 2:45 pm

        Hi, Debbie. So glad everything turned out so well. It’s a terrific main dish recipe.

  • Katie

    April 10, 2018 at 4:31 pm

    I wish I could have taken a picture of the final product – but my family literally was circling like sharks!! It LOOKS yummy and tastes even better!!! I have made it twice and will keep making it. My family, including kiddos, raves about this meal. Thank you SO MUCH for sharing and detailing out the step by step process!! It must have been hard work to do that, but it helped me out so much! ❤️

    1. Teresa

      April 11, 2018 at 10:25 am

      Katie, I’m ecstatic that you and your family loved the recipe! Yes, it is hard sometimes having to stop and take pictures in the middle of the process or taking pictures before my family actually gets to sit down to eat the final product. But it is worth it in the end. I’m so glad you enjoy this recipe. If you enjoy lasagna, have you tried My Favorite Lasagna? I also have a really good Pesto Lasagna, a Taco Lasagna and a Ravioli Lasagna. Some are easier recipes than others, but all delicious. Thanks again for letting me know how much you enjoyed the recipe. Have a great week.

  • Cc

    December 17, 2017 at 3:25 pm

    Thank You so much for this recipe all my guess raved about it. I used 4 lb.of hamburger and some other things. Was wonderful. Will be making it often.

    1. Teresa

      December 18, 2017 at 7:26 am

      So glad it turned out so well for you. This has always been one of our favorites. It’s a good bit of work but worth it.

  • C c

    December 16, 2017 at 12:25 pm

    Just finished making this , I used 4 lbs.hamburger and 2 16oz. Cans refried beans a little more of everything plus a few other ingredients. Will let you know what my party people say. Also made a Mexican salad and some good bread. 😉

    1. Teresa

      December 17, 2017 at 7:36 am

      Sounds delicious. Hope everything worked out well for you.

  • Celene

    December 14, 2017 at 10:33 am

    Hi, sorry to bother you, but will this serve 8 people ? Making a salad with it.

    1. Teresa

      December 14, 2017 at 12:13 pm

      Hi, Celene. It will serve at least 8 people. Probably more like 12. Enjoy.

  • Celene

    December 5, 2017 at 3:21 pm

    Would it be ok to make this the day before? Im making it for a party so i want to be sure it will feed at least 7 people?? Thank You

    1. Teresa

      December 5, 2017 at 3:53 pm

      Hi, Celene. I would prepare it the day before hand but not bake it. When you get ready to bake it the next day, make sure there’s still enough moisture on top of the noodles from the salsa/sauce mixture on top. If it has absorbed into the noodles, you may want to add a little more before baking. I hope it works out well for you.

      1. Cc

        December 12, 2022 at 2:49 pm

        5 stars
        Made this in 2017 ,was a hit for my party.now 2022 making for another party. I do add extra everything cause don’t think you can over do taste. Delicious !!

        1. Teresa

          December 13, 2022 at 2:33 pm

          So glad this has become one of those “keeper” recipes! It really is incredibly good.

  • Carianne

    May 4, 2017 at 7:10 pm

    This Looks yummy! I am making it now for my family…and a second one for tomorrow’s company Cinco de Mayo pot luck.
    Hope everyone likes it

    1. Teresa

      May 5, 2017 at 11:46 am

      Hi Carianne, it’s one of our favorites. Layer on the cheese and toppings and everyone loves it! 🙂

      1. Haley

        November 15, 2017 at 5:46 pm

        How long does it stay good for

        1. Teresa

          November 16, 2017 at 8:01 pm

          Hi, Haley. I think you can refrigerate it for several days and reheat the leftovers. (you may have to scrape off some of the toppings before microwaving and add them later).

  • Ashley

    April 3, 2017 at 6:20 am

    Can I prepare this in the morning and bake in the evening?

    1. Teresa

      April 3, 2017 at 3:12 pm

      Hi, Ashley. Yes, I’ve done that before.

  • linda

    December 22, 2016 at 8:52 pm

    After we put the toppings on and before we put the lasagna back in the oven do we put the top ( foil )back on first ?

    1. Teresa

      December 23, 2016 at 11:00 am

      Hi, Linda. I do not put foil back on the casserole after I add the cheese and toppings. I bake it only for about 5 minutes – just enough to allow the veggies to get a little tender instead of raw, and the cheese to melt.

  • Cherise Carrillo

    August 26, 2016 at 8:54 pm

    Thanks for sharing, my hubby loved It! My picky son even ate a plate full. Yumy!

    1. Teresa

      August 27, 2016 at 3:54 pm

      Hi Cherise, so glad you and your family loved the lasagna. We’ve always enjoyed this recipe and because it makes so much it’s great to share with company.

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  • Samantha

    June 2, 2016 at 5:25 pm

    Hi There!

    I cannot wait to make this! I am wanting to make and freeze for when our baby arrives. Would you add the sour cream an cheese before freezing? Or wait until the lasagna has thawed and been reheated to add?

    Thank you!

    -Samantha

    1. Teresa

      June 3, 2016 at 8:35 am

      Hey, Samantha, I would probably freeze this without the sour cream, cheese, tomatoes, etc. for the final topping. I would add them after baking, just like if you were making the recipe fresh. (You could add the sour cream and cheese and freeze it, but not tomatoes or any other topping, so it’s probably easier to wait and do it later).

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  • Valerie

    April 21, 2016 at 6:06 pm

    This lasagna looks amazing! I can’t wait to try it. I never would have thought to use pasta with Mexican but you sold it to me with your amazing pictures and the delicious ingredients. 🙂

    I have a similar Mexican inspired lasagna that uses soft tortillas. http://doubletherecipe.com/2016/04/20/mexican-lasagna/

    Thanks for sharing a great recipe!

    p.s. I hope that in time my pictures improve enough so I can update my post just as you did. 😉

    1. Teresa

      April 21, 2016 at 6:42 pm

      Hi, Valerie. Thanks so much for stopping by. This really is a delicious lasagna recipe and I loved your recipe, too. I will have to get around to making it sometime soon. The hardest thing about taking pictures is the lighting. I live in Texas where, thankfully, we have sun about 300 days per year. I prefer taking pictures outside rather than inside, no matter what the conditions. I’ve taken pictures when my chocolate chips (props) melted in 5 minutes and when it was so cold I had to wear full winter regalia including gloves. 🙂 If you have a good camera, the next thing you may want to consider is using PicMonkey. It’s a free online program where you can lighten, resize, sharpen and add color to your pictures along with a watermark. It’s wonderful and the royal membership is only about $35/year. Believe me, it can fix a lot of poor quality pictures. 🙂 I guarantee if you keep working hard you will see great progress in your picture taking abilities year after year. Thanks again, Valerie. I appreciate your comments.

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  • Kristin Gleason

    December 28, 2015 at 5:04 am

    This is the BEST and easiest lasagna EVER!!!!!!!! My Family LOVED it!!!!! Bravo!

    1. Teresa

      December 28, 2015 at 10:51 am

      Thank you so much, Kristin! I’m not sure it’s actually the easiest 🙂 but it sure tastes fabulous. So happy that your family loved it. Perhaps you can see why it’s our go-to lasagna recipe.

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  • Linda

    October 8, 2015 at 3:11 am

    Cooking for 9 every night has it’s challenges. I made this last night, crossed my fingers and got 8 thumbs up! Only little Demi (2 yrs. old) didn’t eat it but she doesn’t eat anything ever. Will definitely make this again. Easy to follow directions and good pics made it easy to make. Thanks.

    1. Teresa

      October 8, 2015 at 6:26 am

      So glad you enjoyed it Linda. This is one of our favorite lasagna recipes, and I sure like the Mexican twist to it. Thanks for stopping by.

  • Mary

    October 4, 2015 at 4:19 pm

    Hi Teresa. Thank you so much for this recipe. It’s delicious! I loved the flavor and textures. And it looks so pretty with the black olives, green onions, and bright red tomatoes on top. I reheated a piece today for lunch, and it’s even better the second day. I did follow your suggestion to use two cups of enchilada sauce instead of water. I really appreciate your clear, step by step directions and pictures. It gives a beginner cook like me a lot more confidence!

    1. Teresa

      October 5, 2015 at 11:59 am

      Mary, I’m so glad you enjoyed the recipe. This one is the best of both worlds – Italian and Tex-Mex! We loved it. And you can play around with the recipe a little and not have a complete fail! 🙂

  • Lindsay

    September 12, 2015 at 11:07 am

    What if I use the no boil noodles? Still only 30-40 minutes?

    1. Teresa

      September 14, 2015 at 8:24 am

      Yes, Lindsay, you will definitely want to cut the time down and you may not want to add all the extra water to the sauce on top because the whole purpose of that is to soak into the noodles so they cook.

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  • Anonymous

    January 27, 2015 at 3:36 pm

    Can I freeze this?

    1. Teresa

      January 27, 2015 at 4:23 pm

      You can freeze it after you bake it, but I would not freeze it before you bake it unless you pre-cook the noodles.

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  • Brendon

    January 15, 2015 at 10:07 pm

    This looks amazing, I will HAVE to try it! Just one question: if I decide to pre-cook the lasagna noodles, how would that alter the cook time? Otherwise, I think the only other change would be to omit the additional water in the salsa for the topping. Thanks!!

    1. Teresa

      January 16, 2015 at 11:28 am

      Hi, Brendon. I’m glad you’re going to give Mexican Lasagna a try. If the noodles are already cooked (cook them al dente or they will break apart), you probably won’t have to cook this any longer than 30 minutes before it starts getting hot and bubbly. Then add the sour cream, cheese, green onions, olives and tomatoes and bake an additional 5-10 minutes or until cheese melts. Please let me know how it turns out. P.S. Don’t forget to put a good coat of sauce on the bottom before you start layering the noodles so they don’t stick to the bottom of the dish! 🙁

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  • daisyandthefox

    November 22, 2012 at 7:05 am

    love the mexican twist! sounds yum 🙂

    1. Teresa

      November 22, 2012 at 9:11 pm

      It is fantastic. Everyone loves this main dish.

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