Cheesy Taco Lasagna Bake – Dive into the delicious fusion of Mexican flavors. And Italian tradition. With our Cheesy Taco Lasagna Bake! Perfect for family dinners. Or a festive gathering. This recipe brings together. Tender lasagna noodles. Zesty taco-seasoned beef. And loads of melted cheese. A true comfort dish. That combines the best of both worlds.
I first tried making this dish on a chilly evening. When I wanted something comforting. And exciting for dinner. The idea came to me. As I was thinking. Of how to spice up. Our usual lasagna night. To my delight. It was a hit! My husband. Always a fan of bold flavors. Loved the robust taco seasoning. And my child couldn’t get enough. Of the cheesy goodness. It’s now a requested favorite at our family table. Bringing a smile. To everyone’s face.
What makes this Cheesy Taco Lasagna Bake truly stands out?
This Cheesy Taco Lasagna Bake stands out. Because it’s a playful twist. On traditional lasagna. It’s incredibly filling. And satisfies those taco cravings. In a unique way. The use of oven-ready noodles. Cuts down on prep time. Making this dish. As easy as it is tasty. Plus, it’s versatile. Feel free to add your own twist. With different toppings. Or a homemade taco seasoning mix. For that personal touch.
What You Need To Make This Cheesy Taco Lasagna Bake Recipe?
Oven-Ready Lasagna Noodles: No need to boil these noodles. Making the lasagna easier. And quicker to prepare.
Lean Ground Beef: Using lean beef. Keeps the dish hearty. But not too heavy. Perfect for a filling meal. Without feeling weighed down.
Taco Seasoning: This is what gives the lasagna its taco-flavored twist. You can use a store-bought packet. For convenience. Or make your own. For a custom flavor.
Egg: Mixed into the ricotta. The egg helps keep the cheese layer firm. And creamy throughout baking.
Ricotta Cheese: Adds a creamy, soft texture. That contrasts nicely. With the spiced meat and salsa.
Shredded Cheddar Cheese: A generous amount of cheddar. Melts into each layer. Making the lasagna extra cheesy and delicious.
Chunky Salsa: Adds a robust tomato flavor. And a bit of texture to the lasagna. Choose your favorite brand or spice level. To tailor it to your taste.
Optional Toppings: Personalize your bake. With toppings like sour cream for creaminess. Green onions for a slight crunch. And diced tomatoes for a fresh burst of flavor.
Steps To Make Cheesy Taco Lasagna Bake:
Step 1: Preheat your oven to 350 degrees F.
Step 2: Brown the ground beef in a large skillet until it’s no longer pink. Drain the excess grease, then stir in your taco seasoning and set aside.
Step 3: In a small mixing bowl, whisk the egg into the ricotta cheese until smooth.
Step 4: To assemble, lay 4 lasagna noodles in the bottom of a 9×13-inch baking dish. Spread a third of the ricotta mixture over the noodles, followed by a third of the seasoned beef, a third of the salsa, and a third of the shredded cheese. Repeat these layers twice more.
Step 5: Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake for about 35 minutes, or until the casserole is bubbly and heated through. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 5 minutes to slightly brown the top.
Step 6: Let the lasagna stand for 10 minutes before serving. Garnish with sour cream, sliced green onions, and diced tomatoes if desired.
Tip:
After baking. Allow your Cheesy Taco Lasagna Bake. To rest for about 10 minutes. Before serving. This resting period. Helps the layers set. Making the lasagna. Easier to cut into neat. Appealing slices. It also allows the flavors. To meld together beautifully. Ensuring that each bite. Is as delicious. As it looks. This small step. Can make a big difference. In presentation. And enjoyment of the meal!
Frequently Asked Questions:
Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes! Assemble the lasagna up to a day in advance. And store it covered in the refrigerator. Bake as directed. When ready to enjoy.
What can I use instead of ground beef?
Ground turkey. Or chicken are excellent substitutes. If you’re looking for a lighter option. That still packs plenty of flavor.
How should I store leftovers?
Keep any leftovers. In an airtight container. In the refrigerator. They should stay fresh. For up to 3-4 days.
Cheesy Taco Lasagna Bake
Ingredients
- 12 oven-ready lasagna noodles
- 1 lb lean ground beef
- 1 1-ounce package Old El Paso taco seasoning, (or homemade taco seasoning)
- 1 egg
- 1 15-ounce carton ricotta cheese
- 4 c 1 lb shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 24-ounce jar chunky salsa
- Optional toppings: sour cream green onions, diced tomatoes
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Set your oven to 350 degrees F.
- Cook the Beef: In a large skillet over medium heat. Cook the ground beef. Until it’s no longer pink. Drain any excess grease. Then mix in the taco seasoning. And set aside.
- Mix Ricotta and Egg: In a small bowl. Beat the egg into the ricotta cheese. Until smooth.
Assemble the Lasagna:
- Layer 4 lasagna noodles in the bottom of a 9×13-inch baking dish.
- Spread 1/3 of the ricotta mixture over the noodles.
- Add 1/3 of the seasoned beef on top of the ricotta.
- Pour 1/3 of the salsa over the beef.
- Sprinkle 1/3 of the cheddar cheese over the salsa.
- Repeat these layers two more times.
- Bake: Cover the dish with aluminum foil. And bake for 30-40 minutes. Or until the lasagna is hot. And bubbly. Remove the foil. And bake for an additional 5 minutes. To slightly brown the top.
- Rest and Serve: Let the lasagna stand. For 10 minutes. After baking. This helps the layers set. Making it easier to cut. Serve with optional toppings like sour cream, green onions, and diced tomatoes if desired.
- Enjoy your delicious Cheesy Taco Lasagna Bake!
Notes
