Mediterranean Taco Lasagna
This Mediterranean Taco Lasagna combines the comforting layers of lasagna with zesty taco flavors and fresh Mediterranean ingredients. Instead of traditional red sauce, this dish layers seasoned ground meat (or lentils), hummus, olives, spinach, and feta between soft tortillas or flatbreads, all topped with melty cheese and herbs. It’s a bold, hearty, and wholesome twist on taco night—perfect for meal prep, casual dinners, or impressing guests with something unique!
Ready In: 50 minutes
Prep Time: 20 minutes | Cook Time: 30 minutes
Serves: 6
Ingredients
Base Layers:
6 soft flour tortillas or whole-wheat lavash (or use gluten-free if needed)
Olive oil for greasing
For the Mediterranean Taco Filling:
1 tbsp olive oil
1 medium red onion, diced
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 lb (450g) ground beef, turkey, or plant-based alternative
2 tsp smoked paprika
1 tsp cumin
1 tsp dried oregano
1/2 tsp coriander
Salt and pepper to taste
1/4 cup tomato paste
1/3 cup water or broth
Mediterranean Add-Ins:
1 cup chopped spinach or arugula
1/2 cup chopped Kalamata olives
1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
1/2 cup diced tomatoes or sun-dried tomatoes
1/4 cup hummus (optional, for layering)
Cheese Topping:
1 1/2 cups shredded mozzarella or a Mediterranean blend
2 tbsp crumbled feta (extra)
Sprinkle of dried oregano or za’atar
Instructions
Preheat the Oven:
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly oil or spray a 9×9-inch or rectangular baking dish.
Make the Mediterranean Taco Filling:
In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat.
Sauté the onion until soft (about 4 minutes), then add garlic and cook for another 30 seconds.
Add ground meat and cook until browned.
Stir in spices, tomato paste, and water. Simmer for 5–7 minutes until thickened.
Mix in spinach, olives, and diced tomatoes. Remove from heat.
Assemble the Lasagna:
Place a tortilla or flatbread layer in the bottom of the dish.
Spread a thin layer of hummus (optional), then top with taco filling and a sprinkle of feta.
Repeat layers (tortilla, hummus, filling, cheese) until all ingredients are used.
Finish with a top layer of tortilla and cover with mozzarella and extra feta. Sprinkle with oregano.
Bake:
Cover with foil and bake for 20 minutes.
Uncover and bake for another 8–10 minutes, or until cheese is golden and bubbling.
Cool & Serve:
Let it rest for 5–10 minutes before slicing. Garnish with parsley or serve with Greek yogurt or tzatziki on the side.
Tips for the Best Mediterranean Taco Lasagna
Use No-Boil Lasagna Noodles
Saves time and hassle—just layer them in raw and let the sauce do the cooking.
Drain Excess Moisture
If using ingredients like tomatoes, olives, or spinach, make sure they’re well-drained to avoid a soggy lasagna.
Layer Strategically
Start with sauce at the bottom, then noodles, filling, cheese, and repeat. Top with extra cheese for a golden crust.
Let It Rest After Baking
Wait 10–15 minutes before slicing—this helps the layers firm up and makes it easier to serve.
Spice to Taste
Use a Mediterranean spice mix (oregano, paprika, cumin, garlic) and adjust to your preference. A pinch of sumac or za’atar adds brightness.
Variations to Try
Protein Options
Ground Chicken or Turkey – Lighter alternative to beef.
Lamb – Adds rich Mediterranean flavor.
Lentils or Chickpeas – Great vegetarian option that pairs well with the spice mix.
Cheese Twists
Feta Crumbles – Mix into layers or sprinkle on top before baking.
Kasseri or Halloumi – For an authentic Mediterranean flair.
Vegetable Add-Ins
Zucchini or Eggplant – Grilled or thin-sliced for extra moisture and flavor.
Spinach or Kale – Add to meat or cheese layers for nutrients.
Taco-Inspired Layers
Hummus Spread – Thin layer under noodles for a creamy, tangy touch.
Tzatziki Drizzle (Post-Bake) – Serve each slice with a dollop on top for freshness.
Make It Vegan
Swap meat for spiced lentils or plant-based crumbles, use vegan cheese, and layer with cashew cream or tahini sauce.
Make-Ahead & Freeze
Assemble fully, wrap tightly, and freeze before baking. Bake straight from frozen, adding about 15–20 minutes to cook time.
Q&A – Mediterranean Taco Lasagna
Q: Can I make this dish ahead of time?
A: Yes! You can assemble the lasagna up to 24 hours in advance. Just cover and refrigerate, then bake when ready. Add 5–10 extra minutes if baking straight from the fridge.
Q: What kind of noodles work best?
A: No-boil lasagna noodles are ideal for convenience. Regular lasagna noodles (pre-boiled) or even whole wheat or gluten-free varieties can be used too.
Q: How can I make this lower in carbs?
A: Swap traditional noodles with thin slices of grilled zucchini or eggplant for a lighter, low-carb version.
Q: What sauce should I use?
A: A seasoned tomato-based sauce works great—either a Mediterranean spiced marinara or a mix of tomato paste, garlic, paprika, oregano, cumin, and olive oil.
Q: Is this freezer-friendly?
A: Absolutely! Freeze before baking, tightly wrapped. When ready to eat, thaw overnight or bake from frozen at 180°C (350°F) for 60–75 minutes.
Nutrition Information (per serving, approx. 1/8 of 9×13″ pan)
Calories: ~380–450 kcal
Protein: 22–28g
Carbohydrates: 30–35g
Fat: 18–22g
Fiber: 4–6g
Sugar: 5–7g
Sodium: ~500–650mg (depending on cheese and sauce used)
Note: Values vary depending on ingredients like cheese, meat, and sauce.
Conclusion
Mediterranean Taco Lasagna is a bold fusion of classic comfort food and vibrant Mediterranean flair. Rich in protein, layered with spiced meat, vegetables, tangy sauces, and melty cheeses, it’s a wholesome, family-friendly meal perfect for weeknights or entertaining. With options to make it vegetarian, low-carb, or freezer-ready, it’s versatile, satisfying, and packed with flavor.