Mexican Lasagna

Mexican Lasagna

This is a lot like a lasagna, only Mexican-style!
It is one of our family favorite meals.
One of the best things about it is the fact that you can make any changes you like.
Don't like refried beans? Use a can of black beans instead!
Like it REALLY hot? Use more spices or extra-hot Rotel.
I have made it with chicken instead of ground beef with GREAT results!
Garnish with sour cream, salsa, lettuce and tomato.

This recipe also freezes GREAT!
So I usually make two and toss one on the freezer to have on hand for those nights I just don't feel like cooking.
Makes 16 servings.


Ingredients
--2 pounds ground beef
--1 onion, chopped
--2 teaspoons minced garlic
--1 (2 ounce) can black olives, sliced
--1 (4 ounce) can diced green chili peppers1 (10 ounce) can diced tomatoes with green chilies peppers (I use Rotel Brand)
--1 (16 ounce) jar taco sauce
--2 (16 ounce) cans refried beans ( I have substitued black beans too!)
--12 (8 inch) flour or corn tortillas (its up to you! I usually use flour)
--9 ounces shredded Colby or Cheddar cheese ( I usually just use a Mexican blend)

Directions
Preheat oven to 350 degrees F .

1. In a large skillet over medium heat, saute the ground
beef for 5 minutes. Add the onion and garlic, and saute for
5 more minutes. Drain any excess fat, if desired. Mix in
the olives, green chile peppers, tomatoes with green chile
peppers, taco sauce and refried beans. Stir mixture thoroughly,
reduce heat to low, and let simmer for 15 to 20 minutes.

2. Spread a thin layer of the meat mixture in the bottom
of a 4 quart casserole dish. Cover with a layer of
tortillas followed by more meat mixture, then a layer of cheese.
Repeat tortilla, meat, cheese pattern until all the tortillas
are used, topping off with a layer of meat mixture and cheese.

3. Bake for 20 to 30 minutes in the preheated oven, or
until cheese is slightly brown and bubbly.

Enjoy!
Ole!