Description
Cowboy Lasagna is a bold, hearty Tex-Mex inspired casserole combining layers of seasoned ground beef, refried beans, salsa, shredded cheese, and tender noodles. Ready in about 30 minutes, this meal is perfect for busy weeknights, delivering a satisfying blend of rich, creamy, and zesty flavors that the whole family will love.
Ingredients
Scale
Meat and Aromatics
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 small onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tbsp taco seasoning
Pasta and Beans
- 8–10 lasagna noodles (regular, no-boil, or tortilla wraps as substitute)
- 1 cup refried beans
Sauces and Cheese
- 1 cup salsa
- 1 ½ cups shredded cheese (blend of cheddar and Monterey Jack)
Optional Add-ins
- Jalapeños, sliced (to taste)
Instructions
- Prepare the Beef Mixture: Brown the ground beef in a skillet over medium heat, breaking it apart as it cooks. Once no longer pink, drain excess fat. Stir in diced onions, minced garlic, and taco seasoning. Cook an additional 2-3 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
- Cook the Lasagna Noodles: Boil lasagna noodles in salted water according to package instructions until tender but slightly firm. Drain carefully and set aside. Alternatively, use no-boil noodles or layered tortilla wraps to save time.
- Layer the Ingredients: Spread a thin layer of salsa on the bottom of a baking dish to prevent sticking. Add a layer of noodles, spoon on refried beans, then the beef mixture, and sprinkle with shredded cheese. Repeat layers finishing with a generous cheese topping.
- Bake Until Bubbly: Place the assembled lasagna in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C). Bake uncovered for 15-20 minutes, until cheese is melted, bubbly, and slightly golden on top.
- Rest and Serve: Remove from oven and let the lasagna rest for 5 minutes to allow layers to set for easier slicing and serving.
Notes
- Use fresh onions and garlic for a sweeter, more complex flavor.
- Under-cook noodles slightly to avoid mushy texture after baking.
- Layer ingredients evenly ensuring every bite has meat, beans, cheese, and pasta.
- Use freshly shredded cheese rather than pre-shredded for better melting and flavor.
- Add a squeeze of lime juice before serving to brighten flavors.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Tex-Mex
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice (1/6 of recipe)
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 9g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 25g
- Fiber: 5g
- Protein: 25g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
Keywords: Cowboy lasagna, Tex-Mex casserole, quick dinner, ground beef lasagna, refried beans, spicy lasagna, layered casserole