Name: Air Fryer Taco Lasagna Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 35 min
Cuisine: Mexican-American
Ingredients: 1 pound ground beef; 1 small onion, diced; 1 packet taco seasoning; 1/2 cup water; 1 cup salsa; 1 cup refried beans; 6 small flour or corn tortillas; 2 cups shredded Mexican-blend cheese; 1/2 cup sour cream; Shredded lettuce; Diced tomatoes; Sliced olives; Green onions

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If you are craving a fun and flavorful meal that combines the cheesy comfort of lasagna with the zesty excitement of tacos, the Air Fryer Taco Lasagna Recipe is exactly what you need. This dish layers seasoned ground beef, refried beans, tangy salsa, and melted cheese between soft tortillas, delivering a fiesta of textures and tastes in every bite. Thanks to the air fryer, this taco lasagna cooks faster than traditional oven-baked versions, making it a perfect choice for a busy weeknight dinner without compromising on flavor or leaving you with a mountain of dishes to clean.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The image shows four steps of making a layered dish inside a black round air fryer basket on a white marbled surface. The first step shows a layer of light beige tortilla covered with shredded pale yellow cheese inside the basket. The second step shows the same tortilla base topped with a thick layer of chunky reddish-brown cooked meat spread evenly. The third step has another light beige tortilla placed on top of the meat, covered again with scattered shredded pale yellow cheese. The last step shows the dish after cooking, with the top tortilla layer golden brown and the cheese melted under it, giving a smooth, slightly crispy finish. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

In this Air Fryer Taco Lasagna Recipe, each ingredient plays a crucial role in creating layers of flavor and texture that are simply irresistible. From the seasoned beef to the creamy sour cream and melted cheese, these simple staples come together beautifully to make an unforgettable meal.

1 pound ground beef: Provides hearty protein and a rich base for the taco flavors.
1 small onion, diced: Adds a subtle sweetness and depth when sautéed with the beef.
1 packet taco seasoning: Brings the signature bold taco spices that tie the dish together.
1/2 cup water: Helps the seasoning blend into the beef, creating a juicy filling.
1 cup salsa: Adds tangy tomato flavor and a hint of spice.
1 cup refried beans: Creamy texture and authentic Mexican taste serve as the perfect layer.
6 small flour or corn tortillas: Act as the “noodles” of the lasagna; corn tortillas make it gluten-free.
2 cups shredded Mexican-blend cheese: Melts perfectly for that gooey, cheesy finish.
1/2 cup sour cream: Adds creaminess and balances the spices in the layers.
Optional toppings (shredded lettuce, diced tomatoes, sliced olives, green onions): Freshness and crunch for serving.

How to Make Air Fryer Taco Lasagna Recipe

Step 1: Cook the Beef Mixture

Start by heating a skillet over medium heat. Add the ground beef and diced onion, cooking them together until the beef is thoroughly browned and the onion has softened. Make sure to drain any excess grease here to keep the dish from getting soggy.

Step 2: Add the Taco Seasoning

Stir in the taco seasoning packet along with 1/2 cup of water, allowing the mixture to simmer for 2 to 3 minutes. This thickens the savory filling and infuses the meat with robust taco flavors that will carry throughout the entire lasagna.

Step 3: Prepare Your Baking Dish

Lightly grease an air fryer–safe baking dish that fits comfortably inside your air fryer basket. This simple step ensures your lasagna won’t stick and makes cleanup easier.

Step 4: Layer the Lasagna

Begin by placing one tortilla at the bottom of the dish, creating your foundation. Spread a layer of refried beans evenly over it, followed by a generous spoonful of the seasoned ground beef mixture. Next, add a layer of salsa, then a dollop of sour cream, and finally sprinkle a layer of shredded cheese. Keep repeating these layers until all components are used, ensuring you finish off with a thick, cheesy top layer.

Step 5: Cook the Taco Lasagna

Cover the dish loosely with aluminum foil to prevent the cheese from browning too quickly, then place it in the air fryer. Cook at 350°F (175°C) for 12 to 15 minutes. After this, remove the foil and cook for an additional 5 minutes to get that bubbly, golden cheese finish you crave.

Step 6: Rest and Serve

Once the cooking time is up, let your Air Fryer Taco Lasagna sit for about 5 minutes. This resting period allows the layers to set properly, making it easier to slice and serve without everything falling apart.

How to Serve Air Fryer Taco Lasagna Recipe

Air Fryer Taco Lasagna Recipe - Recipe Image

Garnishes

Top your Air Fryer Taco Lasagna with fresh and colorful garnishes such as shredded lettuce, diced tomatoes, sliced olives, and green onions. These not only add vibrant pops of color but also provide crisp texture and fresh flavors that are wonderful contrasts to the warm, cheesy layers.

Side Dishes

Pairing this dish with simple sides like a crisp garden salad, cilantro-lime rice, or crunchy tortilla chips with guacamole can round out the meal nicely. These additions balance the richness of the lasagna and create a festive, satisfying dining experience.

Creative Ways to Present

For a playful twist, serve your slices on colorful plates with small bowls of extra salsa and sour cream on the side. You can also try layering individual servings in small ramekins and air frying mini taco lasagnas for a fun appetizer or party option.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you have any leftovers, place them in an airtight container and keep them in the refrigerator. The Air Fryer Taco Lasagna Recipe holds up well for 3 to 4 days, allowing you to enjoy the flavors again without losing their deliciousness.

Freezing

For longer storage, freeze individual portions in freezer-safe containers. When properly sealed, your taco lasagna can last up to 2 months in the freezer. Just be sure to thaw it in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.

Reheating

To reheat, warm the leftovers in the air fryer at 350°F (175°C) for about 5 to 7 minutes until the cheese is melted and the dish is heated through. This method revives the crispy edges and melty cheese much better than a microwave.

FAQs

Can I use corn tortillas instead of flour tortillas?

Absolutely! Corn tortillas not only make the recipe gluten-free but also add an authentic taco taste. Just make sure they are pliable by warming them slightly before layering to prevent cracking.

What can I substitute for refried beans?

If you prefer, you can use mashed black beans or pinto beans as a substitute. They’ll still add creaminess and a nice layer of flavor to your taco lasagna.

Is this recipe suitable for vegetarians?

You can easily adapt the Air Fryer Taco Lasagna Recipe for vegetarians by replacing the ground beef with sautéed vegetables or plant-based crumbles and keeping all other ingredients the same.

How do I know when the taco lasagna is done cooking?

The lasagna is ready once the cheese on top is melted and bubbly, and the layers are heated through. Letting it rest for about 5 minutes after cooking helps the dish set, making slicing easier.

Can I make this recipe ahead of time and cook it later?

Yes! Assemble the dish ahead of time, cover it tightly with foil or plastic wrap, and refrigerate until you’re ready to air fry. Just add a couple of extra minutes to the cooking time if cooking straight from the fridge.

Final Thoughts

This Air Fryer Taco Lasagna Recipe truly brings together the best of both worlds: the hearty comfort of lasagna and the lively flavors of tacos. It’s a fantastic way to switch up your dinner routine with minimal fuss and maximum satisfaction. I encourage you to give it a try—you might just find your new favorite weeknight meal!