Easy Baked Taco Lasagna: No Browning Required!
Forget the hours spent browning ground beef – this recipe delivers all the deliciousness of taco lasagna without the fuss! This simple, easy baked taco lasagna is perfect for busy weeknights and impresses even the pickiest eaters. Get ready to enjoy a hearty, flavorful meal with minimal effort.
Why This Recipe is Amazing
- No browning required: Save valuable time by skipping the browning step entirely! The oven does all the work.
- Easy to customize: Add your favorite taco toppings and seasonings for a personalized touch.
- Family-friendly: Kids and adults alike will love this cheesy, satisfying dish.
- Make-ahead friendly: Prepare the lasagna ahead of time and bake when ready, making it perfect for meal prepping.
- Budget-friendly: Uses readily available ingredients without breaking the bank.
Ingredients You'll Need:
- 1 lb ground beef (or substitute with plant-based ground beef)
- 1 packet taco seasoning
- 1 (15 ounce) can tomato sauce
- 1 (15 ounce) can black beans, rinsed and drained
- 1 (10 ounce) can diced tomatoes and green chilies (Rotel), undrained
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese
- 1/2 cup sour cream or Mexican crema
- 9 lasagna noodles (oven-ready preferred, no pre-boiling necessary)
Instructions:
Step 1: Prepare the Meat Sauce
In a large bowl, combine ground beef, taco seasoning, tomato sauce, black beans, and Rotel. Mix well.
Step 2: Assemble the Lasagna
Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9x13 inch baking dish.
Layer half of the lasagna noodles in the bottom of the baking dish. Evenly spread half of the meat sauce over the noodles. Sprinkle with half of the cheddar and Monterey Jack cheese.
Repeat layering with remaining noodles, meat sauce, and cheese.
Step 3: Bake & Enjoy
Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly and the lasagna is heated through.
Let stand for 10 minutes before serving. Top with sour cream or Mexican crema and your favorite taco toppings (lettuce, tomatoes, onions, etc.) before serving.
Tips and Variations:
- Spice it up: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or your favorite hot sauce to the meat sauce for extra heat.
- Add veggies: Incorporate chopped onions, bell peppers, or corn into the meat sauce for added flavor and nutrition.
- Different cheeses: Experiment with different types of cheese, such as pepper jack or queso fresco.
- Vegetarian option: Replace ground beef with lentils or mushrooms for a hearty vegetarian lasagna.
- Make it ahead: Assemble the lasagna up to a day in advance and bake when ready.
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This recipe provides a delicious and easy alternative to traditional lasagna, perfect for busy weeknights and family gatherings. The elimination of the browning step saves significant time and effort, allowing you to focus on enjoying a flavorful and satisfying meal. Remember to share this recipe with your friends and family!