This Cheesy Parmesan Garlic Bacon Burger Lasagna is a fun twist on two favorites! It’s layered with juicy beef, crispy bacon, rich cheese, and pasta, all topped with a flavorful sauce.
If you think it can’t get better than burgers and lasagna, think again! This dish is like a party on your plate. I love serving it with a side salad for a tasty balance. Yum!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: This is the heart of the lasagna. You can swap it out for ground turkey or chicken if you’re looking for a lighter option. Just adjust the cooking time to ensure everything is properly cooked!
Bacon: Bacon adds a delicious crunch and flavor. If you want a healthier choice, turkey bacon or pancetta can be great alternatives. You can also skip it entirely for a meatless version!
Cheese: I love using a mix of cheddar and mozzarella for gooeyness. If you prefer a unique taste, try gouda or pepper jack for a little kick. Don’t forget you can use vegan cheese if you’re dairy-free!
Lasagna Noodles: Traditional noodles work well, but gluten-free versions are available too. You can even use zucchini or eggplant slices for a low-carb option.
Marinara Sauce: Any store-bought or homemade sauce will work. If you want to make it special, add herbs or sautéed veggies to boost the flavor!
How Do I Ensure My Lasagna is Layered Perfectly?
Layering is key to a delicious lasagna. Start by spreading sauce on the bottom; this prevents sticking. Then, alternate noodles, beef mixture, cheese, and sauce. Remember to end with a cheese layer on top for that golden crust.
- Use enough sauce in each layer to keep it moist but not too much that it becomes soupy.
- For every 3 layers, rotate the direction of the noodles to support the structure.
- Don’t rush; let it rest after baking. This makes serving easier and lets flavors meld beautifully!
Cheesy Parmesan Garlic Bacon Burger Lasagna
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Meat Mixture:
- 1 lb (450g) ground beef
- 8 slices bacon, cooked and crumbled, plus extra for topping
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper, to taste
For the Lasagna Layers:
- 9-12 lasagna noodles, cooked and drained
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 ½ cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
For the Sauce Mixture:
- 2 cups marinara sauce (or preferred tomato sauce)
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise (optional, for extra creaminess)
- 1/2 cup sour cream (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take about 45 minutes total. You’ll need around 15 minutes for preparation, followed by about 35 minutes for baking. Remember to let the lasagna rest for 10 minutes after baking to make cutting and serving easier!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat and Cook the Bacon:
First, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the bacon until crispy. Once done, remove the bacon and let it drain on paper towels. Once cooled, crumble it into small pieces and set it aside.
2. Prepare the Beef Mixture:
Use the same skillet you cooked the bacon in to add the ground beef. Cook it over medium heat until it’s browned, breaking it apart with a spoon. Don’t forget to drain any excess fat. Next, add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the beef. Cook for about 3-4 minutes, stirring often, until the onion is softened. Mix in the Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Finally, stir in the crumbled bacon and remove it from heat.
3. Make the Sauce Mixture:
In a mixing bowl, combine the marinara sauce with mayonnaise and sour cream if you’re using them. This will give your lasagna a creamy touch that’s oh-so-delicious!
4. Layer the Ingredients:
To begin assembling your lasagna, spread a thin layer of the sauce mixture at the bottom of a baking dish. Now, place 3-4 lasagna noodles on top of the sauce. Spread one-third of the beef and bacon mixture evenly over the noodles. Sprinkle a blend of cheddar, mozzarella, and Parmesan cheeses on top. Follow this with some sauce from your mixture.
5. Repeat the Layers:
Repeat this layering process two more times, always starting with noodles and finishing with a generous layer of cheese and some extra crumbled bacon on top.
6. Bake and Cool:
Cover the dish with foil and bake in your preheated oven for 25 minutes. After that, remove the foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes until the cheese is bubbly and golden. When it’s done, give the lasagna about 10 minutes to cool before cutting into it. This makes serving so much easier!
Enjoy your indulgent cheesy parmesan garlic bacon burger lasagna with a fresh salad or some garlic bread on the side!
FAQ for Cheesy Parmesan Garlic Bacon Burger Lasagna
Can I Use Different Meats in This Recipe?
Absolutely! You can substitute the ground beef with ground turkey or chicken for a lighter option. For a vegetarian version, try using lentils or a mix of your favorite vegetables!
How Can I Make This Lasagna Ahead of Time?
You can prepare the lasagna up to two days in advance! Just assemble it in the baking dish, cover tightly, and refrigerate. When ready to bake, allow it to sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before cooking to ensure even baking.
What Should I Do with Leftover Lasagna?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm it in the oven or microwave until heated through. If using the oven, cover it with foil to keep it from drying out!
Can I Customize the Cheese Blend?
Definitely! Feel free to mix in your favorite cheeses. Gouda, fontina, or even a spicy pepper jack can add wonderful flavor. Just make sure the total amount of cheese remains similar for best results!
