This fun twist on lasagna combines layers of beefy goodness with crispy bacon, melted Parmesan, and a garlicky kick. It’s like a cheeseburger in pasta form—how cool is that?
I can’t get enough of how cheesy and savory this dish is. It’s perfect for family dinners or impressing friends! Plus, who doesn’t love bacon? 😋
Making this lasagna is a breeze; just layer, bake, and enjoy! It’s my go-to for cozy nights in when comfort food is a must!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: The main protein here! You can use lean ground turkey or chicken if you’re looking for a lighter option. For a vegetarian twist, consider using lentils or a meat substitute.
Bacon: Crispy bacon brings a wonderful flavor. If you want a healthier choice, try turkey bacon or skip it altogether and use smoked paprika for a hint of smokiness.
Cheeses: Cheddar and mozzarella are perfect choices for cheesiness. If you’re lactose intolerant, look for dairy-free alternatives or use almond or soy cheese for a different flavor.
Lasagna Noodles: Traditional lasagna noodles work great. If you’re gluten-sensitive, try gluten-free lasagna noodles or use zucchini slices as a low-carb option!
How Do I Layer My Lasagna to Get Perfect Results?
Layering properly helps all the flavors meld together. Here’s how to do it right:
- Start with sauce on the bottom to keep noodles from sticking.
- Place noodles flat, ensuring they cover the sauce entirely.
- Alternate layers of meat, cheeses, and sauce. This keeps everything moist and flavorful.
- Finish with a topping of remaining cheese and crumbled bacon for a delicious crust.
Let your lasagna sit before serving! It helps the layers set and makes it easier to slice.
Easy Parmesan Garlic Bacon Cheeseburger Lasagna
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- For the Meat Sauce:
- 1 pound ground beef
- 8 slices bacon, cooked and crumbled
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 (15 oz) can tomato sauce
- 1/2 cup ketchup
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
- For the Lasagna:
- 9 lasagna noodles, cooked and drained
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 egg, beaten
- 1 cup ricotta cheese (optional for creamy texture)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This tasty lasagna will take about 20 minutes to prepare and 45 minutes to bake. So, you’ll need around 1 hour and 5 minutes from start to finish to have this delicious dish ready to serve!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This will make sure it’s nice and hot when you’re ready to bake the lasagna.
2. Prepare the Bacon and Beef:
In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the bacon until it’s crispy. Once done, remove it from the skillet, crumble it up, and set it aside. In the same skillet, add ground beef, chopped onion, and minced garlic. Cook this mixture until the beef is browned and the onion is tender. Be sure to drain any excess fat for a deliciously clean flavor!
3. Make the Meat Sauce:
Now it’s time to stir in the tomato sauce, ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, salt, pepper, and oregano. Let it simmer for about 5 to 10 minutes—this lets the flavors blend together beautifully.
4. Mix the Ricotta Filling:
If you’re using ricotta, combine it in a bowl with half of the Parmesan cheese, the beaten egg, and a pinch of salt and pepper. This will add an extra layer of creaminess to your dish!
5. Layer the Lasagna:
In a 9×13 inch baking dish, spread a thin layer of the meat sauce on the bottom. Place 3 lasagna noodles on top of the sauce. Then, spread one-third of your ricotta mixture (if using) over the noodles, and sprinkle one-third of the cheddar and mozzarella cheeses on top.
6. Repeat the Layering:
Now, spoon one-third of the meat sauce over the cheese layer and sprinkle one-third of the crumbled bacon over that. Repeat this layering process two more times: noodles, ricotta, cheeses, meat sauce, and bacon. Make sure to finish with meat sauce topped with the remaining cheddar, mozzarella, Parmesan, and any leftover bacon for a perfect finish!
7. Bake the Lasagna:
Cover the lasagna with foil and bake in the preheated oven for 30 minutes. After that, remove the foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes—until the cheese on top is bubbly and golden.
8. Serve and Enjoy:
Let your beautiful lasagna rest for about 10 minutes before slicing. This helps it hold its shape when you serve it! Enjoy your hearty and flavorful Parmesan Garlic Bacon Cheeseburger Lasagna!
Bon appétit! 🍽️
FAQ for Easy Parmesan Garlic Bacon Cheeseburger Lasagna
Can I Use Ground Turkey or Chicken Instead of Beef?
Absolutely! Ground turkey or chicken works well as a leaner alternative. Just be sure to cook it fully and season it well to maintain flavor.
How Can I Make This Recipe Vegetarian?
For a vegetarian version, substitute the ground beef with lentils, mushrooms, or store-bought meat alternatives. You can also load it up with extra vegetables like bell peppers and zucchini for additional texture.
Can I Make This Lasagna Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can prepare the lasagna a day ahead! Just assemble it, cover tightly, and refrigerate. When you’re ready to bake, extend the cooking time by about 10-15 minutes since it will start out cold.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm gently in the oven or microwave until heated through. Adding a splash of milk can help revive the creaminess of the cheese!
