This Cheesy Parmesan Garlic Bacon Cheeseburger Lasagna is a fun twist on two favorites! With layers of pasta, gooey cheese, and yummy bacon, it’s a meal that everyone will love.
Making this dish is super easy! Just layer everything together, pop it in the oven, and let the magic happen. You’ll have a tasty feast ready in no time!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Lasagna Noodles: Regular lasagna noodles work perfectly here. If you’re looking for a gluten-free option, try using gluten-free lasagna sheets or even zucchini slices for a lighter dish. I used standard ones because they give that classic lasagna texture.
Ground Beef: I recommend 80/20 ground beef for the best flavor. If you’re looking for a leaner option, ground turkey or chicken can be great substitutions. For me, beef gives the most satisfying burger taste!
Bacon: Crispy bacon adds a delicious crunch. You can use turkey bacon if you want a healthier version, or even pancetta for a different savory flavor. Bacon is one of my favorite parts of this recipe!
Cheese: Cheddar, mozzarella, and Parmesan offer the perfect melty goodness. Feel free to swap out cheddar for a sharper cheese or Monterey Jack. I always load up on cheeses for that ooey-gooey texture.
Ricotta Cheese: The ricotta adds creaminess to the layers. If avoiding dairy, try a tofu ricotta or a vegan cream cheese alternative. Personally, I love the creaminess that ricotta brings!
How Do I Make Sure My Lasagna Has Great Flavor?
To boost the flavor of your Cheesy Parmesan Garlic Bacon Cheeseburger Lasagna, focus on seasoning your beef and sautéing the vegetables well. Here’s how:
- Add a good amount of salt and pepper to the beef while it cooks. Flavor builds up during cooking!
- Sauté the onions and garlic until they’re nicely softened and aromatic before adding the beef. This adds a fantastic base flavor!
- Optionally, consider adding a splash of Worcestershire sauce to the beef for an extra savory kick.
Finally, layering your ingredients well, starting with the beef and finishing with plenty of cheese, ensures plenty of cheesy goodness in every bite!
Cheesy Parmesan Garlic Bacon Cheeseburger Lasagna
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- For the Lasagna:
- 9 lasagna noodles
- 1 lb ground beef
- 8 slices bacon
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 ½ cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 cups ricotta cheese
- 1 ½ cups marinara sauce (optional, for slight moisture)
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 1 tsp dried basil
How Much Time Will You Need?
This lasagna takes about 20 minutes of prep time and 45-50 minutes of cooking time, plus a resting time of 10 minutes afterward. So after about 1 hour total, you’ll have this delicious dish ready to enjoy!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Lasagna Noodles:
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). Cook the lasagna noodles according to the package instructions until they’re al dente. Once done, drain them and rinse with cold water to prevent sticking, then set them aside.
2. Cook the Bacon:
In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the bacon until it’s nice and crispy. Once it’s cooked, remove it from the skillet and crumble or chop it into small pieces. Drain most of the bacon fat from the skillet, leaving about 1 tablespoon for added flavor.
3. Sauté the Onion and Garlic:
In the same skillet, add a splash of olive oil if needed. Then sauté the chopped onion and minced garlic until they’re fragrant and the onion is translucent, about 3-4 minutes. Your kitchen will smell amazing at this point!
4. Cook the Ground Beef:
Add the ground beef to the skillet with the onions and garlic. Season it with salt, black pepper, oregano, and basil. Cook until the beef is browned and fully cooked, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks. If there’s excess fat, drain that out.
5. Mix in Optional Marinara:
If you’d like a bit more moisture, you can stir in the marinara sauce into the beef mixture at this point. Give it a good mix and then remove from heat.
6. Combine the Ricotta:
In a medium bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, half of the Parmesan cheese, and a pinch of salt and pepper. This will add a creamy layer to your lasagna!
7. Assemble the Lasagna:
Now, it’s time to layer! Spread a thin layer of the beef mixture at the bottom of your baking dish. Then, place 3 lasagna noodles on top. Spread ⅓ of the ricotta mixture over the noodles, then sprinkle a blend of cheddar and mozzarella cheese over that layer.
8. Add More Layers:
Next, add half of the remaining cooked ground beef mixture over the cheese, followed by a sprinkle of crumbled bacon.
9. Repeat Layering:
Repeat the layering process with 3 more noodles, the rest of the ricotta and cheese, and the remaining beef and bacon. Finish with a final layer of noodles on top.
10. Top with Cheese:
Now, sprinkle the remaining cheddar, mozzarella, and Parmesan cheese on top. For a delightful crunch, don’t forget to add any leftover crumbled bacon over the top!
11. Bake the Lasagna:
Cover your baking dish with aluminum foil and bake for 30 minutes. After that, remove the foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown.
12. Let It Rest:
Once it’s done baking, let the lasagna rest for about 10 minutes before slicing. This allows the layers to set a bit and makes for easier serving!
Enjoy!
Slice up your Cheesy Parmesan Garlic Bacon Cheeseburger Lasagna and serve it warm. It’s a wonderfully indulgent dish that combines the best of both lasagna and cheeseburgers! Enjoy every cheesy bite!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I Use Whole Wheat Lasagna Noodles?
Absolutely! Whole wheat lasagna noodles are a great substitute and will add a nutty flavor. Just make sure to cook them according to the package instructions, as they may require slight adjustments in cooking time.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. Reheat portions in the microwave or oven, covering them with foil to keep them moist while heating!
Can I Freeze This Lasagna?
Yes, you can freeze the assembled lasagna before baking. Just cover it tightly with plastic wrap and then aluminum foil. It will stay good in the freezer for up to 3 months. When ready to bake, thaw in the fridge overnight and then bake as directed.
What Can I Serve With This Dish?
This lasagna pairs wonderfully with a simple side salad or garlic bread for a complete meal. The freshness of the salad balances the richness of the lasagna perfectly!
