Beef Taco Lasagna

Submitted by looneytunesfan

"This recipe makes two big pans. Freeze one or both to enjoy later."

 

• Ready In: 1hr
• Ingredients: 7
• Serves: 16

ingredients

• 24 lasagna noodles
• 2 lbs lean ground beef
• 2 (1 1/4 ounce) envelopes taco seasoning
• 4 egg whites
• 2 (15 ounce) cartons ricotta cheese
• 8 cups shredded cheddar cheese
• 2 (24 ounce) jars chunky salsa

directions

1. Cook noodles according to package directions.
2. Meanwhile, in a large skillet, cook beef over medium heat until no longer pink; drain. Stir in taco seasoning.
3. In a small bowl, combine egg whites and ricotta cheese.
4. Drain noodles.
5. In each of two 13-in. x 9-in. x 2-in. baking dishes, layer four noodles, 3/4 cup ricotta mixture, half of the beef mixture and 1-1/3 cups cheddar cheese. Top each with four noodles, 3/4 cup ricotta mixture, 1-1/2 cups salsa and 1-1/3 cups cheese. Repeat.
6. Cover and freeze one casserole for up to 3 months.
7. Bake the second casserole, uncovered, at 350° for 35-40 minutes or until heated through. Let stand for 10 minutes before cutting.
8. Yield: 2 casseroles (8 servings each).
9. To use frozen casserole: Thaw in the refrigerator for 8 hours. Bake as directed.

Reviews

[Maito]

We liked this different take on lasagna, but found out that we prefer Mexican lasagna with tortillas. I followed another reviewer and used no boil noodles and added veggies to it (an onion and red pepper for one pan), and was glad I did. I think beans would be a great addition (or substitution for the meat). I used less taco seasoning since the one I make is very hot, and a lot less cheese for our tastes. The assembly in step 5 was not that clear - I ended up making 3 layers with each of the five components. Each pan fed 4 for us. Thanks!

 

[Redsie]

This was so easy to prepare and so easy to enjoy!! ;) Made half the recipe and added some red bell peppers I needed to use up. Could add any kind of veggies (which I would do next time). Didn't cook the noodles first, just put the whole thing in the oven for about an hour. Voila! Thanks looneytunesfan! :)