You know what’s fantastic about Mexican “Lasagna,” also known as “Mexican Casserole,” “Stacked Enchiladas,” or “Taco Lasagna”? It brings together all the best parts of Mexican cuisine – think tacos, enchiladas, and tostadas – and layers them into one incredible, shareable dish.
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What Makes it “Mexican Lasagna”?
The term “Mexican Lasagna” comes from its layered construction, similar to its Italian relative, lasagna – though the connection is quite loose! In this Southwestern-inspired dish, we creatively swap out traditional lasagna components for Mexican staples. Instead of lasagna noodles, we use corn tortillas. Tomato sauce is replaced with flavorful salsa. Instead of béchamel, we incorporate beans, and the ricotta and Parmesan are exchanged for milder cheddar and Monterey Jack cheeses. This swap creates a uniquely Mexican flavor profile in a comforting casserole format.
Perfect Make-Ahead Casserole for a Crowd
Mexican lasagna is inherently a hearty and satisfying dish, making it an excellent choice for potlucks, family dinners, and any large gathering where hungry mouths await. One of its greatest advantages is its make-ahead convenience. You can assemble the entire casserole in advance and store it in the refrigerator until you’re ready to bake. Alternatively, you can bake it completely, let it cool, and then reheat it in the oven, covered with foil to maintain moisture.
For serving, consider classic Mexican accompaniments like fresh guacamole and a dollop of cool sour cream to complement the rich flavors of the lasagna.
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Storing and Freezing Mexican Lasagna for Later
Leftover Mexican lasagna is a treat in itself! It’s delicious served the next day, and you can even get creative by serving it alongside eggs for a hearty breakfast. The cooked casserole will keep well in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
Just like traditional lasagna, Mexican lasagna is also freezer-friendly. To freeze, allow the baked casserole to cool completely. Then, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil. It can be frozen for up to three months. For optimal convenience, especially if you plan to freeze the whole casserole, line your baking pan with foil or parchment paper before assembling and baking. Once frozen solid, you can lift the lasagna out of the pan using the foil or parchment, freeing up your dish for other uses while the lasagna is stored in the freezer.
Learn more about How to Freeze Lasagna and Other Casseroles
More Crowd-Pleasing Casserole Ideas
If you enjoy the ease and deliciousness of Mexican lasagna, you might also want to explore other crowd-pleasing casserole recipes for your next gathering or family meal. Casseroles are a fantastic way to feed a group with minimal fuss and maximum flavor.
