This Easy Parmesan Garlic Bacon Cheeseburger Lasagna is a fun twist on the classic! With layers of savory ground beef, crispy bacon, cheesy goodness, and a touch of garlic, it’s a crowd-pleaser.
Who knew lasagna could taste like a cheeseburger? I can’t resist the crispy bacon on top—it’s like a party in my mouth! I usually make this for gatherings, and it never lasts long.
Making this lasagna is super simple. Just layer everything in a dish, bake, and enjoy your delicious cheeseburger creation! Perfect for busy nights when you want something hearty.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Lasagna Noodles: Regular lasagna noodles work perfectly here, but if you want to skip the boiling step, consider using no-boil noodles. They absorb moisture from the sauce during baking.
Ground Beef: Lean beef gives great flavor, but you can also use ground turkey or chicken for a lighter option. If you’re looking for a vegetarian version, swap in lentils or chopped mushrooms!
Bacon: The crispy bacon adds amazing texture and flavor. If you want to reduce fat, turkey bacon is a good alternative. You can also skip the bacon entirely for a meat-free meal.
Cheeses: I love the combo of cheddar and mozzarella for their melting qualities and flavor. However, feel free to substitute with any cheese you enjoy. Pepper jack adds a nice kick!
Tomato Sauce: If you prefer something fresher, homemade tomato sauce or crushed tomatoes can be used. Adding a little bit of sugar can balance acidity if needed.
How Do I Layer the Lasagna Correctly?
Layering is key for great-looking lasagna! Here’s how to create layer magic:
- Start with some meat sauce on the bottom of your baking dish. This prevents sticking and adds moisture.
- Add noodles carefully, slightly overlapping them for full coverage.
- Spread more sauce over the noodles before adding a generous layer of cheese and some crumbled bacon.
- Repeat until you run out of ingredients. For the final layer, end with cheese and remaining bacon on top for a lovely crust!
This method ensures every bite is cheesy, meaty, and delicious! Letting it rest after baking helps the layers set and makes serving easier.
Easy Parmesan Garlic Bacon Cheeseburger Lasagna
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 12 lasagna noodles
- 1 lb (450g) ground beef
- 8 slices bacon, cooked and crumbled
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 3 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1 (15 oz) can tomato sauce
- 1 tsp dried Italian seasoning
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- Optional: fresh parsley for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious lasagna takes about 15 minutes to prepare and then about 40 minutes to cook. You’ll want to set aside a total time of about an hour to enjoy your mouth-watering creation!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat and Prepare:
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). While that’s heating up, cook the lasagna noodles according to the package instructions until they’re al dente. Once done, drain them and set aside for later.
2. Cook the Beef and Bacon:
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic, and sauté them for about 2-3 minutes until they are soft and fragrant. Next, add the ground beef, cooking it until it’s browned and fully cooked. Be sure to break it apart with a spoon as it cooks, and drain any excess fat afterward.
3. Mix the Sauce:
Stir in the tomato sauce, dried Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper into the cooked beef. Let this simmer for around 5 minutes so all the flavors blend together beautifully.
4. Assemble the Lasagna:
To begin assembling the lasagna, spread a thin layer of the meat sauce on the bottom of a 9×13-inch baking dish. Then, place 3-4 lasagna noodles on top. Add another layer of the meat sauce over the noodles, and sprinkle a mix of Parmesan, cheddar, and mozzarella cheese on top. Follow this with a layer of crumbled bacon. Repeat these layers until all ingredients are used up, finishing with a generous layer of cheese and the remaining bacon on top.
5. Bake and Serve:
Cover the baking dish with foil and bake it in the preheated oven for about 25 minutes. After that, remove the foil and continue to bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese on top is golden and bubbly. Once done, let the lasagna rest for 10 minutes before serving. If you like, garnish with fresh parsley, slice, and enjoy this hearty, cheeseburger-inspired lasagna!
This dish is a wonderful combination of flavors and is sure to be a hit with family and friends!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I Use Different Meats for This Lasagna?
Absolutely! You can substitute ground beef with ground turkey, chicken, or even a plant-based meat alternative for a healthier or vegetarian option. Just adjust the cooking time if using lean meats, as they may cook faster.
How Do I Store Leftover Lasagna?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. You can reheat it in the microwave, but for the best texture, bake it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through, about 15-20 minutes.
Can I Make This Lasagna Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can assemble the lasagna a day in advance and refrigerate it, covered with plastic wrap or foil. When you’re ready to bake, simply remove the cover and bake as directed, possibly adding an extra 5-10 minutes to the cooking time if it’s cold from the fridge.
What Can I Substitute for Tomato Sauce?
If you prefer, you can use marinara sauce, homemade tomato sauce, or even crushed tomatoes. If using crushed tomatoes, consider adding a bit of sugar or herbs to balance the acidity. For a unique twist, BBQ sauce can also make an interesting base!
