why make this recipe
Crock Pot Mexican Lasagna is a delicious and easy meal that combines the flavors of Mexican cuisine with the comfort of classic lasagna. It is perfect for busy days when you want a hearty meal without spending a lot of time in the kitchen. This one-pot dish is packed with protein, vegetables, and cheesy goodness, making it a family favorite. Plus, it’s an excellent way to use leftover ingredients or make a big batch for meal prep!
how to make Crock Pot Mexican Lasagna
Making Crock Pot Mexican Lasagna is simple and requires minimal effort. Start by cooking the ground beef with onion and garlic until it’s browned. Then, mix in the black beans, corn, diced tomatoes, salsa, and seasonings. Next, layer the beef mixture, lasagna noodles, and cheese in a crockpot. Cover and let it cook on low for several hours until the noodles are tender and the cheese is melted. You’ll soon have a warm, comforting meal ready to enjoy!
Ingredients :
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can (15 ounces) black beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 can (15 ounces) corn, drained
- 1 can (10 ounces) diced tomatoes with green chilies
- 2 cups salsa
- 12 lasagna noodles (uncooked)
- 2 cups shredded cheese (cheddar or Mexican blend)
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
Directions :
- In a skillet, cook the ground beef with onion and garlic until browned. Drain excess fat.
- Stir in black beans, corn, diced tomatoes, salsa, cumin, chili powder, salt, and pepper.
- In your crockpot, layer 1/3 of the beef mixture, 3 lasagna noodles (break if needed), and 1/3 of the cheese. Repeat twice more, ending with cheese on top.
- Cover and cook on low for 4-6 hours or until noodles are tender and cheese is melted.
- Serve hot.
how to serve Crock Pot Mexican Lasagna
Serve Crock Pot Mexican Lasagna hot, directly from the crockpot. You can top it with sour cream, avocado, or fresh cilantro for added flavor. Pair it with a simple side salad or tortilla chips for a complete meal. This dish is great for family dinners, potlucks, or any gathering.
how to store Crock Pot Mexican Lasagna
To store leftovers, let the dish cool down first. Place it in an airtight container and keep it in the refrigerator for up to 3-5 days. You can also freeze it for longer storage. Just make sure to defrost it in the fridge before reheating. Reheat in the microwave or in the oven until heated through.
tips to make Crock Pot Mexican Lasagna
- For a spicier kick, add jalapeños or use hot salsa.
- You can substitute ground beef with ground turkey or chicken for a lighter option.
- Feel free to add more vegetables, such as bell peppers or zucchini, to increase the nutrition in the dish.
- If you want a crispier top, you can place it under the broiler for a few minutes after cooking.
variation
If you want to make a vegetarian version, simply omit the ground beef and add more beans or vegetables. Consider using lentils or extra cheese for added protein and flavor.
FAQs
Can I use whole wheat lasagna noodles?
Yes, you can use whole wheat lasagna noodles. Just make sure they are uncooked for the crockpot.
Is it possible to prepare this dish ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the beef mixture and layer everything in the crockpot the night before. Just refrigerate it overnight and start cooking in the morning.
How do I know if the noodles are done?
The noodles should be tender when pierced with a fork. If they still feel hard, let the dish cook for a bit longer and check again.
Crock Pot Mexican Lasagna
Ingredients
Method
- In a skillet, cook the ground beef with onion and garlic until browned. Drain excess fat.
- Stir in black beans, corn, diced tomatoes, salsa, cumin, chili powder, salt, and pepper.
- In your crockpot, layer 1/3 of the beef mixture, 3 lasagna noodles (break if needed), and 1/3 of the cheese.
- Repeat twice more, ending with cheese on top.
- Cover and cook on low for 4-6 hours or until noodles are tender and cheese is melted.
- Serve hot, topping with sour cream, avocado, or fresh cilantro. Pair with a simple side salad or tortilla chips.