Texas Style Lasagna
If you’re looking for a dish that embodies the spirit of Texas with a twist, then you’re in for a treat! Texas Style Lasagna takes the classic Italian dish and infuses it with bold flavors and textures that are truly Texan. Think layers of seasoned beef, zesty tomatoes, creamy cottage cheese, and crunchy tortilla chips, all brought together to create a comforting, satisfying meal. This recipe is perfect for family gatherings, potlucks, or a cozy dinner at home. Let’s dive into what makes this dish a must-try!
Why This Recipe is a Keeper
This Texas Style Lasagna is not just a meal; it’s an experience. The combination of flavors creates a hearty dish that feels like a warm hug on a plate. Here are a few reasons why this recipe is a keeper:
– **Easy Preparation**: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, making this lasagna can be a fun family activity.
– **Flavor Explosion**: The taco seasoning and green chilies give it a unique Tex-Mex flair that sets it apart from traditional lasagna.
– **Customizable**: You can easily modify the recipe to suit your taste preferences, whether it’s adding more spice or incorporating your favorite vegetables.
Your Shopping Guide
Before you start cooking, let’s gather all the ingredients you’ll need. Here’s your shopping list:
- 1 ½ pounds organic ground beef
- 1 teaspoon seasoned salt
- 1 package taco seasoning
- 1 can (14.5 oz) petite diced tomatoes, undrained
- 1 can (15 oz) tomato sauce
- 1 can (4 oz) chopped green chilies
- 2 cups (16 oz) 4% cottage cheese
- 2 eggs, lightly beaten
- 12 small corn tortillas, torn
- 3 to 4 cups shredded Cheddar & Monterey Jack cheese
Toppings:
- 2-3 cups tortilla chips, broken into medium/large pieces
- Salsa of your choice
- 3 tomatoes, diced
- 3 avocados, cut into chunks
Recommended Tools
Before you get started, make sure you have the right tools on hand to make your cooking experience smoother:
- Large skillet: For browning the ground beef and mixing in your seasonings.
- Mixing bowls: For combining the cottage cheese and eggs.
- 9×13 inch baking dish: Perfect size for layering your lasagna.
- Cooking spoon: To help with mixing and layering.
- Aluminum foil: For covering the dish while it bakes.
Texas Style Lasagna — Do This Next
Now that you have everything ready, let’s get cooking! Follow these steps for a delicious Texas Style Lasagna.
Step 1: Brown the Beef
In a large skillet over medium heat, add the organic ground beef. Sprinkle with seasoned salt and taco seasoning. Cook until the beef is browned and cooked through, breaking it up with a spoon as you go.
Step 2: Add Tomatoes and Green Chilis
Once the beef is cooked, stir in the petite diced tomatoes (with juice), tomato sauce, and chopped green chilies. Let this simmer for about 5 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
Step 3: Prepare the Cheese Mixture
In a mixing bowl, combine the cottage cheese and lightly beaten eggs. Stir until well mixed. This will be one of the creamy layers in your lasagna.
Step 4: Layer the Lasagna
In a 9×13 inch baking dish, start layering your ingredients. Begin with a layer of the beef mixture at the bottom, followed by a layer of torn corn tortillas. Spread a layer of the cottage cheese mixture over the tortillas, then sprinkle with shredded cheese. Repeat the layers until all ingredients are used, finishing with a layer of shredded cheese on top.
Step 5: Bake
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake for 30 minutes. Then, remove the foil and bake for an additional 15 minutes or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Step 6: Add Toppings
Once out of the oven, let the lasagna sit for about 10 minutes. Then, sprinkle the broken tortilla chips on top, and add diced tomatoes and avocado chunks. Serve with salsa on the side for an extra kick!
International Equivalents
If you’re looking to adapt this recipe or need equivalents for specific ingredients, here’s a handy list:
- Ground Beef: Can be substituted with ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option.
- Cottage Cheese: Ricotta cheese can be used for a creamier texture.
- Taco Seasoning: You can create your own blend using chili powder, cumin, garlic powder, and paprika.
- Corn Tortillas: Flour tortillas can be used if preferred, but corn tortillas add an authentic touch.
Behind-the-Scenes Notes
Making Texas Style Lasagna is a great way to use up leftover ingredients from other meals. If you have extra veggies like bell peppers or onions, feel free to add them to the beef mixture. You can also swap in different types of cheese based on what you have on hand.
- For a spicier kick, consider adding jalapeños to the beef or using spicy salsa as a topping.
- This dish is perfect for meal prep; simply portion it into containers and enjoy throughout the week.
Refrigerate, Freeze, Reheat
Leftovers of this Texas Style Lasagna can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. If you want to make it ahead of time, you can freeze it before baking. Just cover it tightly with foil or plastic wrap and store it for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to eat it, thaw in the refrigerator overnight, then bake as directed.
Quick Q&A
Can I make this lasagna vegetarian?
Absolutely! You can replace the ground beef with a mix of sautéed vegetables, beans, or lentils for a hearty vegetarian option.
What if I can’t find corn tortillas?
If corn tortillas are unavailable, feel free to use flour tortillas or even lasagna noodles for a more traditional approach.
Can I add other toppings?
Yes! Feel free to customize the toppings based on your preferences. Sour cream, olives, or cilantro can add a nice touch.
Is this lasagna spicy?
The spiciness primarily comes from the taco seasoning and green chilies. If you prefer a milder flavor, look for mild taco seasoning and omit the green chilies.
The Last Word
Texas Style Lasagna offers a delightful blend of flavors that stands out from traditional recipes. With its layers of seasoned beef, creamy cheese, and crunchy tortilla chips, this dish is sure to become a family favorite. Whether you’re serving it for a special occasion or a casual weeknight dinner, it’s guaranteed to impress and satisfy. The versatility of this recipe allows you to adapt it to suit your taste, making it a fun and creative cooking experience.
So, gather your ingredients and get ready to enjoy a slice of Texas right from your kitchen. Happy cooking!
Texas Style Lasagna
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Step 1: Brown the Beef - In a large skillet over medium heat, add the organic ground beef. Sprinkle with seasoned salt and taco seasoning. Cook until the beef is browned and cooked through, breaking it up with a spoon as you go.
- Step 2: Add Tomatoes and Green Chilis - Once the beef is cooked, stir in the petite diced tomatoes (with juice), tomato sauce, and chopped green chilies. Let this simmer for about 5 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
- Step 3: Prepare the Cheese Mixture - In a mixing bowl, combine the cottage cheese and lightly beaten eggs. Stir until well mixed. This will be one of the creamy layers in your lasagna.
- Step 4: Layer the Lasagna - In a 9x13 inch baking dish, start layering your ingredients. Begin with a layer of the beef mixture at the bottom, followed by a layer of torn corn tortillas. Spread a layer of the cottage cheese mixture over the tortillas, then sprinkle with shredded cheese. Repeat the layers until all ingredients are used, finishing with a layer of shredded cheese on top.
- Step 5: Bake - Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake for 30 minutes. Then, remove the foil and bake for an additional 15 minutes or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Step 6: Add Toppings - Once out of the oven, let the lasagna sit for about 10 minutes. Then, sprinkle the broken tortilla chips on top, and add diced tomatoes and avocado chunks. Serve with salsa on the side for an extra kick!
Notes
- For a spicier kick, consider adding jalapeños to the beef or using spicy salsa as a topping.
- This dish is perfect for meal prep; simply portion it into containers and enjoy throughout the week.
- Feel free to use leftover veggies to customize the filling, like bell peppers or onions.
