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Cowboy Lasagna

Cowboy Lasagna

Cowboy Lasagna is a comforting and flavorful casserole combining layers of seasoned ground beef or turkey, black beans, corn, and lasagna noodles with creamy cheese and southwestern spices. Easy to prepare and perfect for family dinners, this hearty dish offers a delicious blend of bold, zesty flavors and cheesy goodness, ideal for feeding a crowd or enjoying as leftovers.

Ingredients

Scale

Protein & Vegetables

  • 1 lb ground beef or turkey
  • 1 cup corn kernels (fresh, canned, or frozen)
  • 1 cup black beans, drained and rinsed
  • 1 medium onion, diced
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced

Liquids & Sauces

  • 1 1/2 cups tomato sauce or salsa
  • 4 oz cream cheese or 1/2 cup sour cream

Cheeses

  • 2 cups shredded cheese blend (cheddar and Monterey Jack)

Spices & Herbs

  • 1 tablespoon chili powder
  • 1 teaspoon ground cumin
  • Salt and pepper, to taste
  • Fresh cilantro (optional, for garnish)

Other

  • 912 lasagna noodles (no-boil or regular)

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Meat Mixture: In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef or turkey until fully browned, breaking it apart as it cooks. Add diced onions and minced garlic, and sauté until fragrant and translucent. Stir in chili powder, cumin, salt, and pepper to season evenly.
  2. Combine Beans and Corn: Add drained black beans and corn kernels to the meat mixture, cooking for a few additional minutes to warm through and meld flavors.
  3. Layer the Lasagna: In a baking dish, spread a thin layer of tomato sauce or salsa. Add a single layer of lasagna noodles, followed by half of the meat and bean mixture. Dollop spoonfuls of cream cheese or sour cream evenly over this layer, then sprinkle with some shredded cheese. Repeat the layers, finishing with a generous amount of shredded cheese on top.
  4. Bake Until Bubbly: Cover the dish with foil and bake at 375°F (190°C) for about 30 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes until the cheese is melted and lightly golden.
  5. Garnish and Serve: Let the Cowboy Lasagna rest for 5-10 minutes after removing from the oven. Sprinkle fresh cilantro or chopped green onions over the top before slicing and serving.

Notes

  • Use no-boil noodles to save time and ensure tender pasta layers without pre-cooking.
  • Allow lasagna to rest after baking for cleaner, neater slices.
  • Adjust spice levels gradually, starting with mild chili powder and increasing as desired.
  • Layer ingredients evenly to achieve balanced flavors in every bite.
  • Combine sharp and mild cheeses for enhanced flavor complexity.

Nutrition

Keywords: Cowboy Lasagna, Southwestern Lasagna, Ground Beef Casserole, Comfort Food, Easy Dinner