Jam Scott
Get ready to fall in love with this Mexican Lasagna Layered Beef Casserole, a bold and cheesy comfort dish that brings together the best of two worlds. Imagine hearty layers of spiced beef, creamy cheese, zesty salsa, and tender tortillas baked to bubbly perfection. Every bite delivers a fiesta of flavors that’s impossible to resist.
Perfect for weeknight dinners, potlucks, or casual get-togethers, this casserole is a crowd-pleaser that can easily be made ahead. It’s warm, satisfying, and packed with familiar Tex-Mex spices that will have your family asking for seconds (and maybe thirds!).
What Kind of Tortillas Should I Use?
For this recipe, flour tortillas work beautifully as they soak up the sauce without becoming too mushy. If you prefer a gluten-free version, corn tortillas will hold up well and add a slightly nutty flavor. Either option layers nicely and creates that signature lasagna effect with a Mexican twist.
Ingredients for the Mexican Lasagna Layered Beef Casserole
- Ground Beef: The savory, seasoned heart of the dish. Choose lean ground beef to reduce excess grease.
- Onion: Adds sweetness and depth when cooked with the beef.
- Garlic: Infuses aromatic flavor into the meat mixture.
- Taco Seasoning: Brings the essential Tex-Mex kick of spices.
- Black Beans: Adds hearty texture and extra protein.
- Corn: Offers a pop of sweetness and color.
- Salsa: Layers in bold, zesty flavor and moisture.
- Flour or Corn Tortillas: Acts as the lasagna “noodles,” holding everything together.
- Shredded Cheddar Cheese: Melts into gooey, golden layers.
- Sour Cream: Adds creamy richness between the layers.
- Fresh Cilantro & Diced Tomatoes: For garnish, adding freshness and brightness on top.
How To Make the Mexican Lasagna Layered Beef Casserole
Step 1: Brown the Beef and Aromatics
In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef until browned. Add chopped onions and minced garlic, and sauté until softened. Drain any excess grease.
Step 2: Season and Mix
Stir in the taco seasoning, black beans, corn, and salsa. Let it simmer for 5-7 minutes so the flavors meld beautifully.
Step 3: Layer the Casserole
In a greased baking dish, place a layer of tortillas to cover the bottom. Spread a portion of the beef mixture over the tortillas, followed by dollops of sour cream and a sprinkle of cheddar cheese. Repeat layers until all ingredients are used, finishing with a generous layer of cheese on top.
Step 4: Bake to Perfection
Bake in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for 25-30 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly. Let it rest for 5-10 minutes before slicing.
Step 5: Garnish and Serve
Top with fresh cilantro and diced tomatoes just before serving for a fresh, vibrant touch.
How to Serve and Store the Mexican Lasagna Layered Beef Casserole
Serve this casserole hot, straight from the oven, with a sprinkle of cilantro and a spoonful of fresh salsa or guacamole. Pair it with a crisp green salad or Mexican rice for a complete meal. To store, let leftovers cool completely, then refrigerate in an airtight container for up to 4 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave until warmed through. This dish also freezes well—wrap portions tightly and freeze for up to 2 months.
Frequently Asked Questions
How spicy is this casserole?
That depends on your salsa and taco seasoning! Use mild salsa for a kid-friendly version or medium to hot salsa for extra kick.
Can I make it vegetarian?
Absolutely! Swap the beef for crumbled tofu, lentils, or a meatless ground alternative.
Can I assemble it ahead of time?
Yes, you can assemble it a day ahead, cover tightly, and refrigerate. Bake just before serving, adding an extra 5-10 minutes to the cook time.
What cheese works best?
Cheddar is classic, but you can mix in Monterey Jack or a Mexican cheese blend for extra meltiness.
How do I keep tortillas from getting soggy?
Use flour tortillas and avoid overloading layers with too much salsa or liquid.
Can I make it gluten-free?
Definitely! Just use corn tortillas and double-check that your taco seasoning is gluten-free.
Want More Casserole Ideas?
If you love this Mexican Lasagna Layered Beef Casserole, you’ll probably enjoy these other favorites:
• Garlic Butter Steak with Cheesy Alfredo Tortellini for an indulgent steak-pasta combo.
• Tender Beef Bao Buns if you’re craving something soft, fluffy, and savory.
• Cheesy Beef Chimichangas for crispy, cheesy handheld goodness.
• Million Dollar Spaghetti Casserole for a baked pasta experience with rich, creamy layers.
• Mexican White Trash Casserole if you want another playful Tex-Mex comfort dish.
Save This Pin + Share Your Results
📌 Save this recipe to your Pinterest dinner board so you can come back to it any time.
And let me know in the comments how yours turned out! Did you add extra cheese or spice it up with jalapeños? Did you swap in ground turkey or vegetarian meat?
I love hearing how others make these recipes their own. Questions are welcome too—let’s help each other cook smarter!
Mexican Lasagna Layered Beef Casserole
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: Serves 6-8
Description
A comforting, cheesy Mexican-inspired casserole layered with spiced ground beef, beans, tortillas, salsa, and melty cheddar. Perfect for family dinners, potlucks, or make-ahead meals!
Ingredients
1 lb ground beef
1 small onion, chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 packet taco seasoning
1 cup black beans, drained and rinsed
1 cup corn (frozen or canned)
1 ½ cups salsa
8 flour or corn tortillas
2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
1 cup sour cream
Fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)
Diced tomatoes (for garnish)
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
- In a large skillet, cook ground beef over medium heat until browned. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened. Drain excess grease.
- Stir in taco seasoning, black beans, corn, and salsa. Simmer 5-7 minutes.
- In a greased baking dish, layer tortillas, beef mixture, dollops of sour cream, and cheese. Repeat layers, finishing with cheese on top.
- Bake for 25-30 minutes until cheese is bubbly and golden.
- Let rest 5-10 minutes before slicing. Garnish with cilantro and diced tomatoes.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Dinner
