Mexican Lasagna

Here is a Tex-Mex version of lasagna that is sure to please.  Rather than noodles and pasta sauce...simply layer tortillas and salsa and change up the cheese.  Bake it and serve it right in a cast iron skillet.  Great for potlucks and family gatherings.

• 1 pound ground beef
• 1 package taco seasoning mix
• 1/2 cup water
• 1 1/2 cups salsa (medium or hot)
• 1-14 oz / 398 ml can re-fried beans
• 1-12 oz / 341 ml can corn (or 1 can black beans, drained and rinsed)
• 2 cups shredded Mexican cheese blend (Cheddar and Monterey Jack)
• 6-8 flour tortillas  (ten inch)

1. Place ground beef in a deep skillet. 
2. Cook over medium high heat until evenly brown. 
3. Drain, then season with taco seasoning and add water. Simmer for 10 minutes.
4. Add salsa, refried beans and corn; heat through.
5. Place about 1/3 cup of meat mixture in the bottom of a round baking dish...quiche pan, cast iron skillet, or round casserole dish.
6. Place 1 tortilla at bottom of dish.
7. Add a layer of meat mixture (about 2/3 cup); sprinkle with a layer of cheese.
8. Continue alternating tortilla, meat mixture and cheese...ending with a thin layer of meat mixture.
9. Cover and bake at 350°F for 30 minutes.
10. Top with a layer of cheese.
11. Bake uncovered for an additional 10 minutes or until cheese is melted.  
12. Let stand several minutes before serving. 

Garnish with olives, guacamole, tomatoes, shredded lettuce and sour cream...as desired. 

Yield: 8 servings.