This Cheesy Parmesan Garlic Bacon Cheeseburger Lasagna has all the goodness of a burger layered with pasta, cheese, and tasty bacon bits. Yum!
Seriously, who wouldn’t want a lasagna that combines our favorite flavors? I love enjoying it with a simple salad on the side. Definitely a crowd-pleaser at my house! 🍔❤️
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Lasagna Noodles: You can use either regular or no-boil noodles. While no-boil noodles save time, I personally enjoy the texture of regular noodles cooked to al dente. If gluten-free is a need, consider zucchini or gluten-free pasta alternatives.
Ground Beef: Lean ground beef gives good flavor, but ground turkey or chicken works great if you want a lighter option. Feel free to mix in other proteins like sausage for even more flavor.
Bacon: Bacon adds a nice crunch and smokiness. If you prefer, turkey bacon or even crispy pancetta can be delicious substitutes. I love using thick-cut bacon for extra flavor!
Cheese: Cheddar and mozzarella are classic choices. If you’re after a unique twist, try pepper jack for some heat or gouda for a rich flavor. Parmesan provides that nice salty bite, so I wouldn’t skip it!
Ricotta Cheese: For a lighter version, cottage cheese can be used instead. Just blend it until creamy! Adding some spinach can boost nutrition and flavor without a big change in taste.
How Do I Layer Lasagna Like a Pro?
Layering can be tricky, but it’s key to getting that perfect slice. Here’s my step-by-step method to keep everything organized:
- Start with a layer of sauce at the bottom of your dish. This prevents sticking.
- Place noodles, ensuring they slightly overlap. This holds everything together!
- Spread mixtures evenly and don’t worry about perfection; just spread as best as you can.
- Add cheese in layers too, mixing up the varieties for a balanced taste.
- Repeat the layers until you reach the top. Always finish with sauce and a generous cheese layer for a beautiful finish.
- Cover with foil when baking to keep moisture in, removing it for the last stretch to brown the cheese.
Remember, it’s okay if it gets a little messy. That just adds to the homemade charm!
Cheesy Parmesan Garlic Bacon Cheeseburger Lasagna
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Lasagna:
- 9 lasagna noodles (regular or no-boil)
- 1 lb ground beef
- 6 slices bacon, cooked and crumbled
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese, divided
- 2 cups marinara sauce or spaghetti sauce
- 2 cups ricotta cheese
- 1/4 cup milk
- 1 tsp dried Italian seasoning
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 2 tbsp olive oil
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious lasagna will take about 20 minutes to prepare and approximately 40 minutes to bake, plus another 10-15 minutes of resting time. So, you can expect a total of about 1 hour and 15 minutes from start to finish. Perfect for a cozy dinner!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). If you’re using regular lasagna noodles, cook them according to the package instructions until they are al dente. Drain the noodles if needed and set them aside.
2. Cook the Vegetables
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic, and sauté for about 2-3 minutes until they become soft and fragrant. This is where the wonderful flavors start!
3. Brown the Beef
Add the ground beef to the skillet, using a spatula to break it up as it cooks. Brown the beef until it’s no longer pink, which should take about 6-8 minutes. If there’s any excess fat, drain it off before proceeding.
4. Season the Mixture
Stir in the Italian seasoning, along with salt and pepper to taste. After mixing well, remove the skillet from heat.
5. Prepare the Ricotta Mixture
In a separate mixing bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, 1/2 cup of the grated Parmesan cheese, the milk, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Mix until everything is smooth and creamy.
6. Assemble the Lasagna
To begin layering, spread a thin layer of marinara sauce at the bottom of a 9×13 inch baking dish. Then, lay down 3 lasagna noodles on top of the sauce.
7. First Layers
Over the noodles, spread half of the ricotta mixture. Next, add half of the cooked beef mixture, followed by half of the crumbled bacon. Be generous; it all adds to the yum factor!
8. Add the Cheeses
Sprinkle one-third of the shredded cheddar and mozzarella cheeses on top, along with a light sprinkle of Parmesan. Now, you’re building those cheesy layers!
9. Repeat the Layers
Repeat the layering process: noodles, ricotta mixture, beef, bacon, and cheeses until you’re almost at the top. This gives your lasagna its delightful height!
10. Final Touches
Finish off with the remaining 3 noodles on top. Spread the remaining marinara sauce over these noodles, then add the remaining cheddar, mozzarella, and Parmesan cheeses. Don’t forget a sprinkle of crumbled bacon for that extra crunch!
11. Bake the Lasagna
Cover the dish with foil and bake in the preheated oven for 25 minutes. After that, remove the foil and let it bake for another 15 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden on top.
12. Serve and Enjoy!
Once baked, let the lasagna rest for about 10-15 minutes before slicing. This helps everything set nicely and makes for easier serving. Enjoy your rich, cheesy, bacon-packed cheeseburger lasagna that everyone will love!
Cheesy Parmesan Garlic Bacon Cheeseburger Lasagna FAQ
Can I Make This Lasagna Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can assemble the lasagna up to a day in advance. Just cover it tightly with foil and refrigerate. When you’re ready to bake, let it sit at room temperature for 30 minutes before popping it into the oven. You may need to bake it a little longer since it’s starting cold.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm it in the microwave or cover it with foil and reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through.
Can I Freeze This Lasagna?
Yes, it’s freezer-friendly! Once it’s fully assembled but before baking, cover it tightly with cling wrap and then foil to prevent freezer burn. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. When ready to bake, thaw it in the fridge overnight before baking as directed.
What Variations Can I Try?
Feel free to switch things up! Try adding sautéed mushrooms or spinach for added veggies. For a kick, incorporate some jalapeños or a spicy cheese blend. You can also use ground turkey or chicken for a lighter option!
