Taco Lasagna

Okay, taco lovers—brace yourselves. This Taco Lasagna is about to become your new obsession. Think all your favorite taco flavors—spiced beef, creamy cheese, zesty salsa, soft tortillas—layered up like a lasagna. It’s bold, cheesy, comforting, and so satisfying. Whether it’s a family dinner, a casual potluck, or game night with friends, this dish always steals the show.

It’s a fun twist on two beloved classics: tacos and lasagna. And the best part? It’s incredibly easy to make. We’re talking one-pan magic with layers of flavor in every bite. Trust me, once you make this, it’s going into the weekly rotation.

Why You’ll Love Taco Lasagna

This recipe is all about flavor, comfort, and convenience. It’s hearty, filling, and packed with familiar ingredients that make every bite feel like a fiesta.

Two Comfort Foods in One: It’s tacos. It’s lasagna. It’s the best of both worlds. You get that layered, cheesy goodness with all the bold Tex-Mex flavors you crave.

Super Customizable: Use beef, chicken, or even plant-based meat. Want to add beans or corn? Go for it! This dish adapts to what you love (or what’s in your fridge).

Easy Weeknight Meal: With simple prep and straightforward steps, this is a great recipe for busy nights. Bonus: leftovers taste amazing.

Kid-Approved: The familiar flavors and cheesy layers make this a big hit with kids—and adults too.

Perfect for Potlucks: It’s easy to make in bulk and travels well. Everyone will ask for the recipe, guaranteed.

(Note: the full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.)

Ingredients in Taco Lasagna

This dish is all about layers—layers of bold flavor, creamy texture, and cheesy goodness. Here’s what goes into building the ultimate Taco Lasagna:

Ground Beef

The hearty, protein-packed base. Seasoned with taco spices, it adds that savory punch you expect from classic tacos.

Taco Seasoning

Store-bought or homemade, this blend of chili powder, cumin, garlic, and paprika brings the signature taco flavor.

Tortillas

Soft flour or corn tortillas serve as the “noodles” in this lasagna. They hold the layers together and soak up all that flavor.

Salsa

Adds moisture, tang, and a little heat to the dish. Choose mild, medium, or spicy depending on your heat preference.

Refried Beans

These creamy beans add texture and help bind the layers. Plus, they bring a rich, earthy flavor that balances the spices.

Shredded Cheese

Cheddar, Monterey Jack, or a Mexican blend—this is what makes the dish gooey, melty, and impossible to resist.

Sour Cream

Optional, but adds a cool, creamy contrast to the bold flavors. Some like to spread it in layers; others dollop it on top when serving.

Green Onions & Fresh Cilantro (for garnish)

A fresh finish that brightens the dish and adds color. These optional toppings are the cherry on top of your taco creation.

(Note: measurements for these ingredients are listed in the recipe card above.)

Instructions

Let’s build your new favorite layered dinner! Here’s how to bring your Taco Lasagna to life:

Preheat Your Oven

Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). You want it nice and hot so the cheese melts perfectly and the layers bake together.

Cook the Beef

In a skillet over medium heat, brown the ground beef until fully cooked. Drain any excess fat. Stir in taco seasoning and a splash of water, simmering until the beef is evenly coated and the sauce thickens.

Layer It Up

In a greased 9×13 baking dish, spread a thin layer of salsa on the bottom. Place tortillas to cover the surface (cut them to fit if needed). Add a layer of refried beans, then spoon over some taco meat, more salsa, and cheese. Repeat the layers until you run out of ingredients—ending with a generous layer of cheese on top.

Bake to Perfection

Cover the dish with foil and bake for 20 minutes. Then remove the foil and bake for another 10 minutes, until the cheese is bubbly and slightly golden.

Let it Rest

Once out of the oven, let it sit for 10 minutes. This helps the layers set so you can slice it easily.

Serve and Enjoy

Top with sour cream, green onions, and chopped cilantro—or let everyone add their own favorite toppings like guacamole or jalapeños.

Nutrition Facts

Servings: 8
Calories per serving: 480 kcal (estimate)
Total Fat: 28g
Saturated Fat: 14g
Cholesterol: 70mg
Sodium: 880mg
Carbohydrates: 32g
Fiber: 5g
Sugar: 5g
Protein: 28g

Preparation Time

Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 50 minutes

How to Serve Taco Lasagna

This dish is satisfying on its own, but here are a few ways to take it to the next level:

• With a Side Salad: A crisp romaine salad with lime vinaigrette cuts the richness and adds freshness.
• Chips and Salsa or Guac: The perfect crunchy contrast—and who ever said no to more chips?
• Mexican Rice or Elote (Street Corn): For a festive full plate that feels like a restaurant-worthy meal.
• Pickled Onions or Jalapeños: Bright, tangy toppings that bring balance and a little zing.

Additional Tips

• Make Ahead: Assemble the lasagna and store in the fridge for up to 24 hours before baking.
• Freeze It: Taco Lasagna freezes beautifully! Wrap tightly and freeze before baking. Thaw overnight in the fridge and bake as directed.
• Meat Variations: Ground turkey, shredded chicken, or even lentils make excellent swaps for beef.
• Add Veggies: Corn, bell peppers, or black beans add color, nutrition, and texture.

FAQ Section

Q1: Can I use corn tortillas instead of flour?
A1: Absolutely! Corn tortillas give it a more traditional taco flavor and hold up well during baking.

Q2: Can I make this vegetarian?
A2: Yes! Use black beans, lentils, or a meat substitute instead of ground beef. It’s just as delicious and hearty.

Q3: Can I freeze leftovers?
A3: Definitely. Just store portions in airtight containers and freeze for up to 2 months. Reheat in the oven or microwave.

Q4: How spicy is this dish?
A4: That depends on your salsa and seasoning. Use mild salsa and skip hot toppings if you’re heat-sensitive.

Q5: Can I add sour cream in the layers?
A5: You can! Just spread it over the beans or beef for extra creaminess—it holds up well during baking.

Q6: What kind of cheese is best?
A6: A blend of cheddar and Monterey Jack works great, but you can use any melty cheese you love.

Q7: Do I need to pre-cook the tortillas?
A7: Nope! Just use them straight from the package—they’ll soften up beautifully in the oven.

Q8: How do I keep it from getting soggy?
A8: Use thick salsa, drain meat well, and don’t go overboard on sauce in each layer.

Q9: Can I make this in a slow cooker?
A9: Yes! Layer the ingredients in your slow cooker and cook on low for 4–5 hours. Add cheese on top for the last 30 minutes.

Q10: Can I serve this cold or at room temperature?
A10: It’s best warm, but leftovers can be served at room temp for potlucks or lunchboxes.

Conclusion

This Taco Lasagna is pure comfort food joy—a little spicy, super cheesy, and endlessly craveable. It’s the kind of dish that brings people together, gets devoured fast, and leaves everyone asking for seconds (and the recipe). Whether you’re feeding a crowd or meal-prepping for the week, this one’s a keeper. Enjoy every delicious, taco-loaded bite!

Print