This Cheesy Garlic Bacon Parmesan Cheeseburger Lasagna is a fun twist on two favorites: lasagna and cheeseburgers! With layers of delicious pasta, cheese, and crispy bacon, it’s a crowd-pleaser.
Honestly, who can say no to cheesy goodness and bacon? This dish makes any dinner feel special, and I love serving it with a side salad. It’s so hearty that leftovers are just as good the next day!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Lasagna Noodles: Regular lasagna noodles are great, but you could use no-boil lasagna noodles for an easier prep. Just follow the instructions on the package for layering.
Ground Beef: If you’re looking for a lighter option, ground turkey or chicken works well. They still give that classic cheeseburger taste!
Bacon: Instead of traditional bacon, turkey bacon or even a plant-based bacon could be a great substitute if you want a healthier version.
Cheeses: I love the combo of cheddar and mozzarella for creaminess. You can switch it up with pepper jack for some spice, or use dairy-free cheeses for a vegan option.
Marinara Sauce: If you don’t have marinara, any pasta or pizza sauce works. You could even make a homemade sauce if you have the time!
What’s the Best Way to Layer Lasagna?
Layering your lasagna correctly is key for even flavor and texture. Start with a thin layer of sauce on the bottom to prevent sticking. Here’s how to layer:
- Start with 3 noodles flat in the dish.
- Add a layer of meat sauce followed by a drizzle of the creamy sauce.
- Sprinkle on cheeses and some crumbled bacon.
- Repeat the process for two more layers, making sure to keep everything even!
- Finish it all off with a generous layer of cheese and bacon on top!
After baking, letting the lasagna rest for about 10 minutes makes slicing easier, so don’t skip this step!
Cheesy Garlic Bacon Parmesan Cheeseburger Lasagna
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For The Lasagna:
- 12 lasagna noodles
- 1 lb ground beef
- 6 slices bacon, cooked and crumbled
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 3 cups marinara or pizza sauce
- 1/2 cup diced onion
For The Creamy Sauce:
- 1/2 cup milk
- 2 tbsp butter
- 2 tbsp all-purpose flour
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1 tsp dried Italian seasoning (or a mix of oregano and basil)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious lasagna recipe takes about 30 minutes to prepare and 35 minutes to bake. You’ll spend a little time cooking the meat and bacon, layering everything together, and letting it all bubble in the oven. Don’t forget to let it rest for 10 minutes before slicing—this helps it hold together better! In total, you’re looking at about 1 hour and 15 minutes from start to finish.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Lasagna Noodles:
First things first, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Cook the lasagna noodles according to the package instructions until they’re al dente. Drain them and set them aside, making sure they don’t stick together!
2. Cook the Bacon and Ground Beef:
In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the bacon until it’s nice and crisp. Once it’s done, remove it from the skillet and crumble it into pieces. Keep a tablespoon or two of the bacon drippings in the pan for extra flavor! Next, add the ground beef and diced onion to the skillet. Cook until the beef is browned and the onions are soft. Don’t forget to add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute. If there’s too much fat, drain it before moving on!
3. Make the Sauce Mixture:
Stir the marinara sauce into the beef mixture along with the Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Let it simmer for about 5 minutes to blend those tasty flavors. Meanwhile, in a separate saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Once melted, whisk in the flour and cook for 1-2 minutes until it turns slightly golden. Gradually add in the milk, whisking continuously until the sauce thickens. Finally, remove it from the heat and stir in the grated Parmesan cheese.
4. Layering the Lasagna:
Start building your lasagna! Spread a thin layer of the meat sauce on the bottom of a 9×13 inch baking dish. Layer 3 noodles on top, followed by one-third of the meat sauce, and drizzle with half of the creamy garlic Parmesan sauce. Top with a third of the cheddar and mozzarella cheeses and a sprinkle of crumbled bacon. Repeat this layering process two more times until you run out of ingredients, finishing with a layer of noodles, sauce, and cheese on top.
5. Baking the Lasagna:
Cover your lasagna dish with foil and bake in the preheated oven for 25 minutes. After that, remove the foil and bake for another 10 minutes until the cheese is bubbling and golden. When the time’s up, take it out and let it rest for about 10 minutes before slicing into squares and serving.
Now you can enjoy this delicious, cheesy, and bacon-loaded twist on lasagna. Perfect for family dinners or gatherings! Enjoy every cheesy bite!
FAQ About Cheesy Garlic Bacon Parmesan Cheeseburger Lasagna
Can I Use Different Types of Meat?
Absolutely! Ground turkey, chicken, or even a meat alternative can be used in place of beef. Just be mindful of cooking times, especially for poultry.
Can I Make This Recipe Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can! Assemble the lasagna up to a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Just add an extra 10-15 minutes to the baking time if baking chilled.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. You can reheat individual portions in the microwave or cover the entire dish with foil and warm in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through.
Can I Freeze This Lasagna?
Yes! You can freeze it either before baking or after. If freezing before baking, ensure you wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and foil. It should be good for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before baking, or bake from frozen—just adjust the cooking time accordingly!
