This yummy lasagna layers tender noodles with rich beef, crispy bacon, and a cheesy parmesan-garlic blend. It’s like a cheeseburger and lasagna had a tasty baby!
I love how simple it is to put together—just layer, bake, and enjoy. Perfect for a family dinner or when friends come over, and it always gets rave reviews!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: This provides the hearty base of our lasagna. You can substitute it with ground turkey or even a plant-based meat alternative for a lighter option.
Bacon: Bacon adds a crunchy, savory note. If you’re looking for a healthier twist, try turkey bacon or leave it out entirely for a lighter dish. You could also use smoked sausage for a different flavor.
Garlic: Fresh garlic is best for flavor, but you can use garlic powder in a pinch—just one teaspoon is equivalent to two fresh cloves.
Cheeses: Cheddar and mozzarella are classic choices, but you can mix it up! Gouda, fontina, or even pepper jack could add a fun kick. If you prefer lighter cheese, look for low-fat options.
Ricotta Cheese: This is optional, but I really enjoy it for creaminess. Cottage cheese can be a good substitute for a similar texture and taste. You can also skip cheese for a lighter meal.
How Do You Properly Layer Lasagna?
Layering is key to a great lasagna. It helps blend flavors and keeps everything from drying out. Here’s how I do it:
- Start with a thin layer of meat sauce at the bottom; this prevents sticking.
- Use 3 noodles per layer, overlapping slightly to cover the sauce entirely.
- Add sauce evenly across the noodles, ensuring every piece gets flavor.
- Dollop the cheese mixture on top and gently spread it for even coverage.
- Alternate layers of noodles, meat sauce, and cheese until you reach the top.
- Finish with more sauce and a generous cheese topping for that bubbly finish!
Remember to let the lasagna rest after baking, as this helps it set and makes cutting easier!
Easy Parmesan Garlic Bacon Cheeseburger Lasagna
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Filling:
- 1 lb ground beef
- 6 slices bacon, cooked and crumbled
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cups marinara or pasta sauce
- 1 tsp dried Italian seasoning
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 2 tbsp olive oil or cooking oil
For the Cheese Layers:
- 9 lasagna noodles, cooked and drained
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 cup ricotta cheese (optional for creaminess)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious lasagna will take about 15 minutes to prepare and 40 minutes to bake. So in total, you’re looking at around 55 minutes to have this comforting dish on your table!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Oven and Ingredients:
First, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) so it’s nice and hot when your lasagna is ready to bake. Get all your ingredients together to make the cooking process smoother.
2. Cook the Bacon and Sauté the Vegetables:
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté until it’s soft and translucent, which should take about 3 minutes. Then, add the minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds, just until it’s fragrant.
3. Brown the Ground Beef:
Add the ground beef to the skillet. Cook it until it’s browned and no longer pink, breaking it up with a spatula as it cooks. Once it’s browned, be sure to drain any excess fat.
4. Make the Meat Sauce:
Stir in the marinara sauce, dried Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Let this simmer together for about 5 minutes to let all those flavors meld deliciously.
5. Mix Your Cheese Layer:
In a mixing bowl, combine the ricotta cheese (if you’re using it), half of the grated Parmesan cheese, half of the shredded mozzarella, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Mix until well combined.
6. Assemble the Lasagna:
In a 9×13-inch baking dish, spread a thin layer of the meat sauce at the bottom. Then, layer 3 of the lasagna noodles over the sauce. Next, spread one-third of the meat sauce evenly over the noodles. Layer half of the cheese mixture on top of the meat sauce and then sprinkle one-third of the shredded cheddar cheese over that.
7. Repeat the Layers:
Repeat this process two more times: noodles, meat sauce, cheese mixture, and cheddar cheese. This gives you a lovely, layered effect!
8. Top It Off:
For the final layer, spread any remaining meat sauce on top, followed by the rest of the cheddar and mozzarella cheeses. Sprinkle the crumbled crispy bacon and remaining Parmesan cheese across the top to finish it off nicely.
9. Bake the Lasagna:
Cover the baking dish with foil and pop it in the oven. Bake for 25 minutes, then remove the foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown.
10. Let It Rest:
After you take it out of the oven, let the lasagna cool for about 10 minutes. This resting time helps everything set and makes it easier to slice.
Now you’re ready to serve up this mouthwatering, hearty Parmesan Garlic Bacon Cheeseburger Lasagna! Enjoy every cheesy bite!
FAQ for Easy Parmesan Garlic Bacon Cheeseburger Lasagna
Can I Use Ground Turkey Instead of Beef?
Absolutely! Ground turkey is a great alternative for a leaner dish. Just make sure to season it well to ensure it has plenty of flavor, as turkey can be a bit milder than beef.
How Can I Make This Recipe Vegetarian-Friendly?
To make this lasagna vegetarian, simply omit the ground beef and bacon. You can replace the meat with sautéed vegetables like zucchini, mushrooms, or spinach for added flavor and texture.
Can I Make This Lasagna Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can! Prepare the lasagna up to the baking step and then cover it tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil. It can be stored in the fridge for up to 2 days. Just bake it straight from the refrigerator, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.
What’s the Best Way to Store Leftovers?
Leftover lasagna can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, place a portion in the microwave or warm it up in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through.
