Mexican Lasagna Recipe (Freezer Cooking!) Recipe
If you’re craving a comforting, hearty dish that’s packed with bold flavors and can be prepared ahead of time, this Mexican Lasagna Recipe (Freezer Cooking!) is about to become your new best friend in the kitchen. Combining the zest of taco seasoning, creamy refried beans, and layers of melty cheddar cheese nestled between tender tortillas, this casserole is every bit as satisfying as classic lasagna but with a fun, festive twist. Best of all, it’s perfect for freezer cooking, which means you can prepare it in advance and enjoy a delicious, homemade meal whenever the craving strikes.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The magic of this Mexican lasagna comes from simple but essential ingredients that each bring something special to the party. From the savory ground beef offering a rich, meaty base to the gooey layers of cheddar cheese that add irresistible comfort, every component works together to create the perfect balance of taste, texture, and color.
- 2 lbs ground beef: Provides the hearty and savory foundation for the dish, adding depth and protein.
- 2.25 oz packages of taco seasoning: Infuses the beef with that classic Mexican flavor punch that ties everything together.
- 64 oz refried beans: Adds creamy texture and a subtle earthiness that balances the spices.
- 10 small tortillas: These form the layers of the dish, acting as the perfect soft and sturdy base for each cheesy, meaty spread.
- 6 cups shredded cheddar cheese: Melts beautifully to bind the layers with rich, sharp flavor.
- 4 green onions: Bring a fresh, mild onion bite and lovely green color for garnish and topping.
- 4 roma tomatoes: Add juiciness and bright acidity, making the final dish pop with freshness.
How to Make Mexican Lasagna Recipe (Freezer Cooking!)
Step 1: Cook the Ground Beef
Start by heating a skillet to brown the ground beef until it’s fully cooked and no longer pink. This is where the savory base of your dish begins to take shape. Once cooked, drain any excess fat to keep the casserole from becoming greasy. Meanwhile, lightly spray your 9×13 inch pan with cooking spray to ensure the layers won’t stick during baking.
Step 2: Mix the Taco Seasoning, Beans, and Beef
In a large bowl, combine the cooked ground beef with the taco seasoning and refried beans. This mixture is the hearty, flavorful filling that will infuse each layer with the classic Mexican zest and creamy texture that defines this recipe.
Step 3: Layer Your Lasagna
Spread half of the meat and bean mixture evenly into the bottom of the prepared pan. Then, place a layer of tortillas on top, followed by about 1.5 cups of shredded cheddar cheese. Continue layering with the remaining meat mixture, another layer of tortillas, and more cheese, creating a beautifully stacked casserole primed for melting into cheesy deliciousness.
Step 4: Add Fresh Toppings and Bake
To finish, sprinkle diced roma tomatoes and chopped green onions on top for a fresh crunch and pop of color. Bake in a preheated oven at 375 degrees Fahrenheit for 45 minutes to an hour. You’ll know it’s done when the cheese is bubbly and golden, and the tortillas are tender.
How to Serve Mexican Lasagna Recipe (Freezer Cooking!)
Garnishes
For a vibrant finish, consider adding slices of ripe avocado, a dollop of sour cream, or a sprinkle of fresh cilantro. These garnishes add creamy richness and bright herbal notes that complement the layers of seasoned beef and melty cheese perfectly.
Side Dishes
This Mexican lasagna pairs wonderfully with simple sides such as a crisp green salad, Mexican street corn, or homemade salsa and tortilla chips. Each brings texture and contrast to the rich, cheesy, and spiced casserole.
Creative Ways to Present
Want to wow your guests? Serve this dish in individual ramekins or cast iron skillets for charming single servings. Or, for casual gatherings, slice it into squares and serve buffet-style, letting everyone scoop their favorite layers onto plates with a variety of toppings.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover Mexican lasagna keeps beautifully in the refrigerator for up to four days. Store it covered tightly with foil or plastic wrap to maintain moisture and prevent odors from other foods from mingling.
Freezing
This recipe shines as a freezer cooking option. You can assemble the entire lasagna, wrap it well with foil, and freeze it for up to three months. When you’re ready, simply thaw overnight in the fridge and bake as directed for a fresh-baked experience straight from your freezer stash.
Reheating
To reheat, cover the lasagna with foil to prevent drying out and warm it in a 350-degree Fahrenheit oven until heated through, about 20-30 minutes. For a quick reheat, microwave individual portions, but keep an eye on it to avoid drying the edges.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of cheese?
Absolutely! While cheddar is traditional in this recipe for its sharpness and melt quality, Monterey Jack or a Mexican cheese blend also work wonderfully if you want to vary the flavor.
Is it possible to make this recipe vegetarian?
Yes, simply swap the ground beef for extra beans or sautéed vegetables like bell peppers and zucchini. You can also add a meat alternative seasoned with taco spices for a tasty vegetarian version.
How many servings does this Mexican Lasagna Recipe (Freezer Cooking!) make?
This recipe fills a 9×13 pan and typically serves 8 people, making it perfect for family dinners or meal prepping for the week.
Can I add extra spice to the dish?
Definitely! Add chopped jalapenos to the layers or mix in some cayenne pepper with the taco seasoning to tailor the heat level to your taste.
Do the tortillas get soggy after freezing?
When properly wrapped and baked fresh after thawing, the tortillas maintain a lovely soft yet structured texture. The cheese and beans help keep everything moist without becoming mushy.
Final Thoughts
There’s something truly special about having a homemade meal ready to go in your freezer, and this Mexican Lasagna Recipe (Freezer Cooking!) is one of those gems you’ll be glad you mastered. It combines convenience, great flavors, and comforting textures in every bite. I can’t wait for you to try it and make it your own—happy cooking and even happier eating!
Print
Mexican Lasagna Recipe (Freezer Cooking!) Recipe
- Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings 1x
- Diet: Halal
Description
This Mexican Lasagna is a hearty, flavorful casserole perfect for freezer cooking and easy weeknight dinners. Layers of seasoned ground beef, refried beans, tortillas, melted cheddar cheese, and fresh vegetables come together for a comforting Tex-Mex twist on traditional lasagna. Quick to prep and wonderfully satisfying, this dish combines the richness of Mexican flavors in a convenient one-pan meal.
Ingredients
Meat and Beans
- 2 lbs ground beef
- 2.25 oz packages taco seasoning
- 64 oz refried beans
Other
- 10 small tortillas
- 6 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 4 green onions, diced
- 4 roma tomatoes, diced
- Cooking spray, for the pan
Instructions
- Cook the ground beef: In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef until browned and fully cooked, breaking it apart with a spatula. Drain any excess fat. Spray a 9×13 inch baking pan with cooking spray to prevent sticking.
- Mix meat and beans: In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked ground beef, both packages of taco seasoning, and the 64 oz of refried beans. Stir well to evenly mix all ingredients. Spread half of this mixture evenly into the bottom of the prepared baking pan, smoothing it out.
- Layer the tortillas and cheese: Lay a layer of small tortillas over the meat and bean mixture in the pan. Sprinkle about 1.5 cups of shredded cheddar cheese evenly on top. Repeat with the remaining meat mixture, followed by another layer of tortillas and cheese.
- Add fresh toppings: Top the final cheese layer with diced roma tomatoes and chopped green onions for freshness and color.
- Bake: Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Bake the assembled lasagna uncovered for 45 minutes to 1 hour, until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and slightly golden on top. Let the dish rest for 5-10 minutes before serving to allow it to set.
Notes
- This recipe is ideal for freezing; assemble the dish and freeze before baking. When ready to eat, thaw in the fridge overnight and bake as directed.
- For extra flavor, consider adding a layer of salsa or jalapeños between layers.
- Substitute ground turkey or chicken for a leaner protein option.
- Use corn tortillas for a gluten-free variation.
- Leftovers can be refrigerated for up to 3 days or frozen for up to 3 months.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 50 minutes
- Category: Main Course, Casserole
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Mexican
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice (1/8 of recipe)
- Calories: 480
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 820mg
- Fat: 28g
- Saturated Fat: 12g
- Unsaturated Fat: 14g
- Trans Fat: 0.5g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 7g
- Protein: 33g
- Cholesterol: 85mg
Keywords: Mexican lasagna, taco casserole, freezer meal, ground beef recipe, refried beans, easy dinner, Tex-Mex casserole
