Introduction
If you love tacos and lasagna as much as I do, you’re going to fall in love with this Taco Lasagna with Noodles! It’s a fun twist that combines all your favorite Mexican flavors with layers of cheesy, saucy pasta. I often make it on weekends when I’m craving something hearty and full of flavor. This dish is perfect for family dinners, potlucks, or even meal prep for busy days. Every bite gives you the perfect mix of taco seasoning, creamy cheese, and tender noodles — pure comfort food in one pan!
Quick Recipe Info
| Feature | Information |
|---|---|
| Calories | ~420 per serving |
| Protein | 22g |
| Carbohydrates | 36g |
| Fat | 20g |
| Gluten-Free | No |
| Vegan | No |
| Main Ingredients | Ground beef, lasagna noodles, cheese, salsa, taco seasoning |
| Cuisine Type | Mexican-Italian Fusion |
| Best Served | Hot, with sour cream or guacamole |
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Combines the comfort of lasagna with bold taco flavors
- Family-friendly and easy to make for large gatherings
- You can customize it with your favorite toppings like jalapeños, olives, or salsa
- Great for meal prep — reheats beautifully for quick lunches or dinners
- A perfect way to use leftover taco meat or pasta
Ingredients to Make Taco Lasagna with Noodles
I love how simple and flexible this recipe is — most of the ingredients are probably already in your kitchen. Let’s take a look at what you’ll need to create this delicious fusion dish.
- Lasagna Noodles (9-12 sheets): These form the base and layers of your lasagna. You can use regular or oven-ready noodles.
- Ground Beef (1 pound): Adds richness and protein. You can replace it with ground turkey or chicken if you prefer.
- Taco Seasoning (2 tablespoons): Brings the signature Mexican flavor — spicy, smoky, and full of aroma.
- Salsa (1 cup): Gives a tangy and slightly spicy flavor that blends perfectly with the cheese.
- Ricotta Cheese (1 cup): Adds creaminess between the layers. You can also use cottage cheese for a lighter version.
- Shredded Cheddar Cheese (2 cups): Melts beautifully and gives that cheesy pull everyone loves.
- Black Beans (½ cup, optional): Adds fiber and a hearty texture to each bite.
- Corn (½ cup, optional): Adds sweetness and extra crunch.
- Olive Oil (1 tablespoon): Used to cook the meat and prevent sticking.
- Salt and Pepper (to taste): Enhances all the flavors.
Steps to Make Taco Lasagna with Noodles
Let’s move to the fun part — putting everything together! Follow these easy steps for a cheesy, mouthwatering Taco Lasagna that everyone will love.
Step 1: Cook the Noodles
Boil your lasagna noodles in salted water according to package instructions. Once done, drain them and lay them flat on parchment paper to prevent sticking.
Step 2: Prepare the Taco Meat
In a large skillet, heat olive oil and add ground beef. Cook until browned, breaking it apart with a spoon. Stir in taco seasoning and salsa. Cook for 2-3 minutes until everything is well combined and fragrant.
Step 3: Mix the Cheese Layer
In a bowl, combine ricotta cheese, half of the shredded cheddar, a pinch of salt, and pepper. Mix until smooth and creamy — this will be your middle layer.
Step 4: Assemble the Layers
Spread a thin layer of taco meat at the bottom of a baking dish. Place a layer of noodles, followed by cheese mixture, then more taco meat, and a sprinkle of beans and corn (if using). Repeat until all ingredients are used, finishing with a layer of cheddar cheese on top.
Step 5: Bake to Perfection
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Cover the dish with foil and bake for 20 minutes. Then uncover and bake for another 10 minutes until the cheese is bubbly and golden. Let it cool for a few minutes before slicing and serving.
Serving Suggestions
Taco Lasagna with Noodles is best served warm and fresh out of the oven. I like to top each slice with a spoonful of sour cream, fresh salsa, or creamy guacamole for an extra layer of flavor. You can also sprinkle chopped cilantro, diced tomatoes, or sliced jalapeños on top for a fresh and colorful touch. For a full meal, serve it with a side of Mexican rice or a simple green salad with lime dressing. And don’t forget a cold drink like lemonade or iced tea to balance the richness.
Meal Prep Tips: Can We Make Taco Lasagna with Noodles in Advance?
Yes, you absolutely can! This dish is perfect for meal prep or make-ahead dinners. If you’re planning to prepare it in advance, simply assemble the lasagna as usual but don’t bake it yet. Cover the dish tightly with foil and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. When ready to bake, remove it from the fridge and let it sit at room temperature for 20 minutes before putting it in the oven. You can also freeze the unbaked lasagna for up to 2 months — just thaw it overnight in the refrigerator before baking.
Tips and Tricks
- Use oven-ready noodles to save time and skip the boiling step.
- Add a layer of crushed tortilla chips on top before baking for extra crunch.
- Mix a little cream cheese into your ricotta layer for an even creamier texture.
- Don’t skip letting the lasagna rest after baking — it helps it set and makes slicing easier.
- Try using half beef and half sausage for a more flavorful filling.
Variations of Taco Lasagna with Noodles
- Chicken Taco Lasagna: Replace ground beef with shredded cooked chicken and use mild taco seasoning for a lighter version.
- Vegetarian Taco Lasagna: Skip the meat and add black beans, bell peppers, zucchini, and corn for a plant-based option.
- Spicy Version: Add chopped jalapeños or hot sauce to the meat mixture for an extra kick.
- Cheesy Deluxe: Use a mix of cheddar, mozzarella, and pepper jack cheese for a gooey, stretchy finish.
- Low-Carb Option: Swap regular lasagna noodles with zucchini slices or low-carb pasta sheets.
Storage Instructions
If you have leftovers, let the lasagna cool completely before storing. Place slices in airtight containers and refrigerate for up to 4 days. For longer storage, freeze individual portions for up to 2 months. When freezing, wrap each portion tightly in plastic wrap and then place in a freezer-safe bag to prevent freezer burn.
Can We Reheat Taco Lasagna with Noodles?
Yes, and it tastes just as delicious the next day! To reheat, place a slice on a microwave-safe plate, cover it with a damp paper towel, and heat for about 1-2 minutes until warm. If reheating a whole tray, cover it with foil and bake at 350°F (175°C) for 15-20 minutes. Add a little splash of water or sauce before reheating to keep it moist and cheesy.
Recipe FAQs
Q: Can I use no-boil noodles for this recipe?
Yes! Just make sure there’s enough sauce and moisture in each layer so the noodles cook properly in the oven.
Q: What can I use instead of ricotta cheese?
You can replace ricotta with cottage cheese or cream cheese for a smooth, rich texture.
Q: Can I make this recipe without meat?
Absolutely. Replace the ground beef with black beans, corn, or lentils for a vegetarian version that’s just as flavorful.
Q: How do I make it less spicy?
Use mild taco seasoning and a mild salsa, or skip the jalapeños if you’re sensitive to spice.
Q: Can I add more veggies?
Of course! You can add bell peppers, onions, spinach, or mushrooms for extra nutrition and flavor.
Conclusion
Taco Lasagna with Noodles is a delicious and creative way to enjoy the best of both worlds — the rich, layered goodness of lasagna and the bold, zesty flavors of tacos. It’s easy to make, crowd-pleasing, and perfect for any occasion, from weeknight dinners to special gatherings. I love how versatile it is — you can customize it, prep it ahead, and even freeze leftovers. Once you try this recipe, it’ll surely become one of your family’s favorite comfort meals.