Name: Mexican Lasagna Recipe with Ground Beef Recipe
Prep time: 50 min
Cook time: 55 min
Total time: 1 h 45 min
Cuisine: Mexican
Ingredients: 1 1/2 pounds lean ground beef; 1 yellow onion chopped; 1/4 cup flour; 3 tablespoons chili powder (NOT cayenne pepper); 1 teaspoon ground cumin; 1 teaspoon garlic powder; 1 teaspoon ground coriander; 1 teaspoon salt; 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika; 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano; 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper; 1/3 cup tomato paste; 4-6 garlic cloves minced; 3 1/2 cups reduced sodium chicken broth; 1 14.5 oz can fire roasted diced tomatoes, with juices; 1 4 oz can mild chopped green chiles; 1 teaspoon unsweetened cocoa powder; 1 teaspoon sugar; A pinch of cinnamon; 1 15 oz can pinto beans, rinsed and drained (may substitute black beans); 1 1/2 cup frozen sweet corn, no need to thaw; 1 6 oz can chopped black olives, drained; 1/2 tablespoon apple cider vinegar; 15 regular lasagna noodles (NOT no boil); 2 cups freshly grated Monterrey Jack cheese; 2 cups freshly grated sharp cheddar cheese; 1 cup sour cream or Greek yogurt; 8 oz cream cheese, softened; 1/2 cup mild salsa verde; 1/4 teaspoon salt

There’s something so comforting about layers of cheesy goodness combined with bold, cozy flavors. This Mexican Lasagna Recipe with Ground Beef Recipe takes everything you love about classic lasagna and gives it a vibrant, southwest twist. Trust me—it’s a winner every time on my dinner table.

A square piece of layered dish sits on a white plate with small brown speckles, placed on a white marbled surface. The bottom layer is a thick mix of ground meat, corn, and tomato sauce in a rich reddish-brown color. Above that is a melted golden-yellow cheese layer that looks creamy and soft. On top of the cheese, there are small bright red diced tomato pieces and black sliced olives, scattered evenly. Fresh green herbs are sprinkled on the dish and around the plate, adding a fresh touch of color. The layers are thick and clearly visible, making the dish look hearty and delicious. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 2:3 --v 7

Jump to:

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Ingredients & Why They Work
Make It Your Way
Step-by-Step: How I Make Mexican Lasagna Recipe with Ground Beef Recipe
Top Tip
How to Serve Mexican Lasagna Recipe with Ground Beef Recipe
Make Ahead and Storage
Frequently Asked Questions:
Final Thoughts
Mexican Lasagna Recipe with Ground Beef Recipe

Why You'll Love This Recipe

I get so excited every time I make this Mexican Lasagna Recipe with Ground Beef Recipe—not only because of the rich layers of flavor but also because it’s such a crowd-pleaser. The blend of spices, creamy filling, and gooey cheese is irresistible.

Bold and Balanced Flavor: The unique mix of chili powder, cocoa, and cinnamon makes the sauce flavorful without being spicy, great for all ages.
Layered Textures: Between tender noodles, meaty sauce, and creamy cheese layers, every bite feels special.
Make-Ahead Friendly: You can prep everything in advance—which is a lifesaver for busy weeknights or casual get-togethers.
Customizable Ingredients: You have so many options to swap veggies, beans, or even proteins to suit your preferences.

A large square piece of lasagna is lifted by a spoon above a white baking dish with visible sauce stains. The lasagna has multiple layers including a bottom layer of light-colored wavy pasta sheets, several layers of brown meat sauce mixed with creamy white cheese, and melted orange cheese on top. The top layer is decorated with black olive slices, small red diced tomatoes, and green chopped herbs, creating a colorful and textured surface. The background shows the rest of the lasagna in the baking dish, placed on a white marbled surface. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 2:3 --v 7

Ingredients & Why They Work

Each ingredient in this Mexican Lasagna Recipe with Ground Beef Recipe plays a role in building a rich, comforting dish that hits your flavor cravings and melts together perfectly. Shopping for quality spices, fresh cheese, and canned essentials will set you up for success.

Flat lay of a mound of lean ground beef, a whole yellow onion with smooth skin, a small white ceramic bowl with white all-purpose flour, a small white bowl filled with bright red chili powder, small white bowls each containing ground cumin, garlic powder, ground coriander, salt, smoked paprika, dried oregano, and cayenne pepper, a small white bowl with deep red tomato paste, several whole garlic cloves with papery skins, a small white bowl of rich golden chicken broth, a small white ceramic bowl holding fire roasted diced tomatoes with juices, a small white bowl of chopped mild green chiles, a small white bowl with fine unsweetened cocoa powder, a small white bowl with granulated white sugar, a pinch of ground cinnamon on white ceramic plate, a small pile of rinsed and drained light brown pinto beans, a small white bowl with bright yellow frozen sweet corn kernels, a small white bowl of glossy black sliced olives, a small white bowl with translucent pale apple cider vinegar, a stack of uncooked regular large rectangular lasagna noodles with pale yellow color, shredded Monterey Jack cheese in soft white curls on a white plate, shredded sharp cheddar cheese with vibrant orange color on a white plate, a small white bowl with smooth sour cream, a small white bowl with softened cream cheese whipped smooth, a small white bowl of mild green salsa verde, a small white bowl with fine salt crystals — all ingredients perfectly arranged in symmetrical balance in a professional flat lay, placed on a clean white marble surface, soft natural light, photo taken with an iPhone, professional food photography style, fresh ingredients, white ceramic bowls, no bottles, no duplicates, no utensils, no packaging --ar 2:3 --v 7 --p m7354615311229779997

Lean Ground Beef: The base protein brings savory richness without too much fat, making it easier to brown evenly.
Yellow Onion: Adds sweetness and depth when caramelized alongside the beef.
Flour: Helps thicken the sauce, creating that luscious lasagna texture.
Chili Powder: Use American-style chili powder—it’s the key to that authentic Southwest spice balance.
Ground Cumin, Garlic Powder, Coriander, Smoked Paprika, Oregano, Cayenne Pepper: This spice medley layers complexity without overpowering heat.
Tomato Paste: Concentrates tomato flavor for a rich sauce base without watery excess.
Garlic Cloves: Fresh garlic brings aromatic brightness and depth.
Reduced Sodium Chicken Broth: Adds moisture and umami while controlling salt levels.
Fire Roasted Diced Tomatoes: Smokiness and tang from the fire roasting enhance the meat sauce.
Mild Chopped Green Chiles: Brings mild heat and a touch of vegetal freshness.
Unsweetened Cocoa Powder, Sugar, Cinnamon: These surprise ingredients give the sauce an authentic Mexican enchilada-inspired warmth the whole family will love.
Pinto Beans: Provide creamy texture and protein balance; black beans work too with minor adjustments.
Frozen Sweet Corn: Adds subtle sweetness and color.
Chopped Black Olives: Offer briny umami pops throughout.
Apple Cider Vinegar: Brightens the sauce with a vinegar tang.
Regular Lasagna Noodles: Not no-boil—you’ll soak these so they assemble perfectly soft without falling apart.
Monterrey Jack and Sharp Cheddar Cheese: The melty duo gives creamy and sharp cheesy layers, essential for that comforting bite.
Sour Cream or Greek Yogurt, Cream Cheese, Mild Salsa Verde: Whisked together for a creamy filling that cuts through the heartiness with a tangy kick.

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Note: You'll find the complete list of ingredients, along with their exact measurements, in the printable recipe card at the bottom of this post.

Make It Your Way

I love tweaking this Mexican Lasagna Recipe with Ground Beef Recipe depending on the season or what’s in my pantry. It’s super forgiving and welcomes your personal touch, so don’t be afraid to get creative with your favorite veggies or cheese combos.

Variation: Once, I swapped ground beef for shredded rotisserie chicken—quick, lean, and just as satisfying. The sauce clung so well to the tender chicken pieces!
Vegetable Boost: Toss in diced zucchini or bell peppers to add freshness and extra nutrition without messing with the sauce balance.
Tortilla Swap: For a twist, try corn tortillas instead of noodles. Just be sure to use regular ones—thicker tortillas can get overwhelmed by the sauce.

Step-by-Step: How I Make Mexican Lasagna Recipe with Ground Beef Recipe

Step 1: Soak the Noodles to Perfect Softness

I start by placing the lasagna noodles in a large pan and pouring hot tap water over them to cover completely. While I prep everything else, I give the noodles a gentle stir every 10 minutes to keep them from sticking together and ensure even softening—about 30 minutes does the trick.

Step 2: Brown the Beef and Onion

Next, I brown the ground beef with chopped yellow onion in a large Dutch oven or skillet. I like to cook until the meat is almost done but still slightly pink—that way it finishes cooking with the sauce and stays juicy. Drain off excess fat if needed to keep the sauce from getting greasy.

Step 3: Add the Seasonings and Flour for Richness

Once the beef and onions are ready, I sprinkle in the pre-mixed flour and seasoning blend, stirring constantly for 2 minutes. This step is crucial—it helps thicken the sauce and allows the spices to bloom, developing their deep, smoky aroma.

Step 4: Build the Sauce Layer by Layer

Reduce heat, then stir in tomato paste and minced garlic, cooking for one minute until fragrant. Gradually add chicken broth, diced tomatoes, green chiles, cocoa powder, sugar, and cinnamon. I bring this to a gentle simmer and let it reduce for 10-15 minutes until thickened, stirring often to prevent sticking.

Finally, I stir in pinto beans, sweet corn, black olives, and a splash of apple cider vinegar for balance. Once everything’s well combined, I remove the sauce from heat. The result is a rich, flavorful filling packed with texture and warmth.

Step 5: Whisk Together the Creamy Filling and Cheese

While the sauce simmers, I whip up the creamy filling by mixing sour cream, softened cream cheese, salsa verde, and salt. The tangy creaminess is a perfect counterpoint to the savory meat sauce. In a separate bowl, I combine freshly grated Monterrey Jack and sharp cheddar—freshly grated cheese melts so much better than pre-shredded, trust me.

Step 6: Assemble the Layers with Love

In a greased deep 9x13-inch pan, I start with a thin spread of meat sauce, then layer 4 whole noodles plus part of a 5th to cover. On top goes ¾ cup of creamy filling, followed by 1 cup of the cheese blend. Repeat this layering three times, ending with meat sauce and a final generous layer of cheese. It’s like building a tasty tower of comfort.

Step 7: Bake to Gooey, Melty Perfection

I cover the pan with foil and bake at 350°F for 30 minutes. Then, I remove the foil and bake uncovered for another 20 minutes until the cheese bubbles and browns slightly on top. The aroma fills the kitchen, and after a 15-minute rest, it's ready to cut into perfect slices.

Top Tip

From my kitchen experiments, a few tips make this Mexican Lasagna Recipe with Ground Beef Recipe easier and more flavorful. These little nuggets save me time and make sure every bite turns out just right.

Pre-Measure Your Spices: There are several seasonings to add at once—measuring them beforehand keeps the cooking rhythm smooth and prevents mistakes.
Don’t Skip the Cocoa and Cinnamon: These might sound unusual, but they add unmatched depth and authentic Mexican warmth to the sauce.
Use Freshly Grated Cheese: It melts better and avoids that rubbery texture pre-shredded cheese sometimes gives.
Soak Lasagna Noodles Properly: Place noodles in hot water and stir occasionally to keep them separate—this prevents breakage during assembly.

How to Serve Mexican Lasagna Recipe with Ground Beef Recipe

Garnishes

I love topping my slices with a dollop of sour cream or cool Greek yogurt for creamy contrast. Fresh chopped cilantro adds color and freshness, while diced ripe avocado gives a buttery indulgence. Sometimes I sprinkle sliced jalapeños or scatter a few black olives on top for extra zing.

Side Dishes

This recipe pairs beautifully with simple sides like a crisp green salad with lime vinaigrette or Mexican street corn salad for a fun twist. A side of warm, buttery tortillas works well if you want extra carbs to soak up all the sauce.

Creative Ways to Present

For a dinner party, I’ve served this lasagna alongside a colorful bowl of pico de gallo and arranged individual slices topped with fresh herbs and a wedge of lime. It looks festive and inviting—perfect to impress guests without stress.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover Mexican Lasagna keeps well in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. I always let it cool to room temperature before sealing, which helps maintain the texture and flavor.

Freezing

I often assemble the whole lasagna and freeze it unbaked in a freezer-safe dish, wrapped tightly with plastic wrap and foil. It freezes beautifully for up to 3 months and thaws overnight in the fridge before baking. Freezing cooked leftovers works too—just make sure they’re cooled completely before wrapping to avoid sogginess.

Reheating

To reheat, I cover the lasagna with foil and bake it at 350°F for 30 minutes or until heated through. For individual portions, a quick zap in the microwave works great too—start with 90 seconds and then warm in 30-second bursts until piping hot.

Frequently Asked Questions:

Is this Mexican Lasagna Recipe with Ground Beef Recipe spicy?

Despite the cayenne and chili powder, the recipe is designed to be flavorful but mild enough for kids and anyone sensitive to spice. The key is using American-style chili powder, which is a balanced blend, not pure cayenne.

Can I make this recipe with ground turkey or chicken?

Yes! Ground turkey or chicken works well as a substitute. If using shredded chicken, add it at the end of the sauce simmer to keep it tender. Just keep in mind the cooking times might vary slightly.

Can I use corn tortillas instead of lasagna noodles?

Definitely! Using regular grocery store corn tortillas is a popular variation and makes assembly quicker. However, avoid thick artisanal tortillas as they can get soggy. Soak tortillas briefly in warm water before layering for best results.

How far ahead can I make this lasagna?

You can assemble the entire Mexican Lasagna Recipe with Ground Beef Recipe up to a day ahead and refrigerate before baking—it actually tastes better after flavors meld. The meat sauce can be made up to 3 days in advance or frozen for 3 months to save prep time.

Final Thoughts

This Mexican Lasagna Recipe with Ground Beef Recipe feels like a warm hug in food form. It brings together bold, comforting flavors that remind me of lively family dinners and easy weeknight magic. I hope you enjoy making and sharing it as much as I do—there’s something so satisfying about a dish that’s both familiar and full of surprise. Go ahead, give it a try and see how your kitchen lights up with layers of cheesy, saucy joy!