Pioneer Woman Mexican Lasagna Recipe

Pioneer Woman Mexican lasagna is somewhat of a unique dish because it combines two beloved cuisines!

With layers of tortillas, flavorful ground beef, melted Mexican cheese, and spices, you get all the deliciousness of a traditional lasagna with a spicy kick.

Trust me, using salsa verde instead of traditional tomato sauce gives this dish an unbeatable flavor!

To amp up the taste, add a sprinkle of cumin and chili powder to the meat mixture; these spices are key to replicating the authentic flavor.

How to Make Pioneer Woman Mexican Lasagna

Ingredients

• 1 lb Ground Beef
• 1 Onion (chopped)
• 2 cloves Garlic (minced)
• 1 can Black Beans (15 oz.)
• 1 jar Salsa (16 oz.)
• 2 cups Mexican Cheese Blend (shredded)
• 12 Corn Tortillas
• 1 cup Sour Cream
• 2 tsp Chili Powder
• 1 tsp Paprika
• 1/2 tsp Cumin
• 2 tbsp Olive Oil

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1:

Preheat your oven to 425°F and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.

Cook the ground beef in a skillet over medium heat until browned.

Add chopped onion and minced garlic, cooking until softened.

Step 2:

Mix in the black beans, salsa, chili powder, paprika, and cumin.

Let the mixture simmer for 10 minutes to combine flavors.

Step 3:

Layer the baking dish with four corn tortillas.

Spoon half of the beef mixture over the tortillas.

Sprinkle a layer of cheese.

Repeat the layers, finishing with tortillas and cheese.

Step 4:

Bake the dish for 20-25 minutes, or until bubbly and the cheese is melted.

Top with dollops of sour cream and garnish with fresh cilantro if desired.

Step 5:

Allow it to cool for a few minutes before slicing and serving.

Tips and Tricks for Making This Recipe

Using Alternative Cheeses

If you like, you can switch the Mexican Cheese Blend with a sharper cheese like cheddar for a different taste.

Choosing the Right Tortillas

Corn tortillas add a traditional feel to the dish, but you can use flour tortillas for a softer texture.

Adjusting Spice Levels

You can always adjust the spice levels by adding more chili powder or incorporating some chopped jalapeños.

Making Ahead and Freezing

Consider assembling the dish and freezing it for convenience.

Thaw it in the fridge before baking to save time on busy weeks.

What to Serve with Pioneer Woman Mexican Lasagna

Mexican Rice

Mexican rice complements Mexican lasagna beautifully as it shares similar ingredients like tomatoes, spices, and fresh vegetables.

You can make this in one pot, which makes it super convenient while you’re busy in the kitchen.

Adding ingredients like peas, corn, and carrots brings extra flavor and texture to the mix!

Elote

Elote, or Mexican street corn, is a side that I absolutely love pairing with lasagna.

The combination of mayonnaise, cotija cheese, chili powder, and lime juice really brings a zesty kick.

This corn dish adds a pop of vibrant flavor to your plate, making it more exciting.

Caesar Salad

A well-made Caesar salad offers a refreshing crunch that contrasts the creamy layers of the lasagna.

The crisp romaine lettuce, tangy dressing, and delicious croutons offer a classic choice for any lasagna dish.

This pairing adds a burst of green goodness to your meal.

Polenta Fries

Polenta fries are an unexpected, but tasty twist to pair with lasagna.

Their crispy outside and creamy inside are so satisfying alongside the lasagna’s texture.

Serving them with marinara or aioli for dipping enhances the overall meal experience!

Bruschetta

Bruschetta brings a touch of Italian flair while still complementing the Mexican flavors.

The fresh tomato, basil, and garlic topping on crusty bread is refreshing and flavorful.

This side is easy to prepare and makes a delicious addition to your table.

Variations and Substitutions

Spice It Up

You can easily adjust the spice level of your Mexican lasagna by changing the type of salsa used or adding jalapeños.

Using a hot salsa or fresh green chilies is a simple way to bring more heat to the dish!

Protein Options

Feel free to substitute the ground beef with turkey or chicken to make the lasagna lighter.

For a vegetarian option, you can replace the meat with black beans or a mix of your favorite beans.

Cheese Choices

Different types of cheese can be used for more exciting flavors!

Try using a blend of cheddar and Monterey Jack, or even queso fresco for a more authentic touch.

How to Store Leftover Mexican Lasagna

You might find yourself wondering what to do with any leftover Mexican lasagna after you’ve enjoyed a delicious meal.

No worries!

You can keep those flavors fresh and tasty for later enjoyments.

Refrigeration

Start by cutting the lasagna into individual slices so it’s ready for quick meals.

Place each slice in airtight containers to keep them fresh and prevent drying out.

Store them in the fridge, where they can stay good for about five days.

Freezing

If you think it’ll take more than a few days to get through your leftovers, freezing is another option.

Let the lasagna cool to room temperature first so there’s no condensation when freezing.

Wrap each slice tightly in plastic wrap to avoid freezer burn, then pop them into a freezer bag.

Using Foil

For those who prefer to keep the whole dish, wrapping it all in aluminum foil is a great way to go.

Foil keeps everything together and makes reheating a breeze too.

When you’re ready, just take the lasagna out of the fridge and it’s good to go!

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Overcooking the Noodles

One mistake that can really mess up your Mexican lasagna is overcooking the noodles.

When you boil them too long, they become mushy and lose their texture.

It’s best to cook the noodles only until they’re al dente so they hold up well in the lasagna.

Using Too Much Sauce

Go easy with the sauce to avoid ending up with a lasagna that’s too watery.

A thick, hearty sauce works best and prevents the layers from slipping apart.

A balanced amount of sauce also ensures the dish isn’t overly soggy and stays easier to slice.

Overcrowding Layers

Be mindful not to overcrowd the layers with too many ingredients.

It’s important to ensure each layer stays distinct and cooks evenly.

Keeping the layers balanced lets individual ingredients shine and prevents undercooked spots.