This Cheesy Parmesan Garlic Bacon Cheeseburger Lasagna is a fun twist on two classics! Layered with pasta, gooey cheese, bacon, and seasoned beef, it’s as tasty as it sounds.
If you think lasagna can’t get any better, just wait until you try this one—it’s like a big hug in a dish! I love serving it with a side salad to balance out all the cheesiness.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Lasagna Noodles: Traditional lasagna noodles work best, but you can use no-boil noodles for convenience. If gluten-free is needed, try rice noodles or zucchini slices for a lighter option.
Bacon: I love the crispy texture! If you’re looking for a healthier choice, turkey bacon or even pancetta can be a good alternative. Just keep in mind the flavor may change slightly.
Ground Beef: Lean ground beef is my go-to for this dish. If you’re aiming for a healthier lasagna, consider using ground turkey or chicken. They both work well! You can even use plant-based meat for a vegetarian version.
Cheeses: Cheddar adds that classic cheeseburger flavor, but mixing in mozzarella gives a nice stretchiness. If you want something different, try pepper jack for a spicy kick or a dairy-free cheese if you’re avoiding dairy.
Marinara Sauce: If you’re out of marinara, any tomato-based sauce will do. Homemade sauce with fresh herbs is great, or even BBQ sauce could add a fun twist for a smoky flavor.
How Do I Layer the Lasagna for Best Results?
Layering is key to making a delicious lasagna. Here’s a simple guide to help you get it just right:
- Start with a thin layer of sauce on the bottom to prevent sticking.
- Add a layer of noodles, making sure they slightly overlap for full coverage.
- Then, add your beef mixture, followed by crumbled bacon and a sprinkle of cheeses.
- Repeat this layering process two more times, finishing with a generous cheese topping for that melty goodness.
Remember, the final layer should be cheese so that it gets bubbly and golden when baked. Let it rest after baking for at least 10 minutes to make cutting easier!
Cheesy Parmesan Garlic Bacon Cheeseburger Lasagna
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Lasagna:
- 12 lasagna noodles
- 1 lb ground beef
- 8 slices bacon
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup shredded Parmesan cheese
- 2 ½ cups shredded cheddar cheese (or a mix of cheddar and mozzarella)
- 2 cups marinara or tomato pasta sauce
- ½ cup mayonnaise (optional, for cheeseburger flavor)
- 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 1 tsp dried basil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley (optional, for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious lasagna will take about 30 minutes to prepare and then 35-40 minutes to bake. Including resting time, plan for about 1 hour and 15 minutes from start to finish, and your cheesy creation will be ready to serve!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Lasagna Noodles:
Start by cooking the lasagna noodles according to the package directions until they are al dente. After cooking, drain them and lay them flat on a sheet of parchment paper or foil to prevent them from sticking together. Set aside.
2. Cook the Bacon:
In a large skillet, cook the bacon slices over medium heat until they are crisp. Once cooked, remove the bacon from the skillet and place it on paper towels to drain. Chop or crumble the bacon into pieces and leave about 1 tablespoon of bacon fat in the skillet for flavor.
3. Make the Ground Beef Mixture:
Using the same skillet with the bacon fat, add the finely chopped onion. Sauté until the onion becomes translucent, which should take about 3 minutes. Then, add the minced garlic and cook for another minute. Next, add the ground beef and cook until it’s fully browned, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks. If there’s excess fat, drain it.
4. Season the Beef:
Stir in the Worcestershire sauce, oregano, basil, salt, and pepper. Mix everything well and let it simmer for a few minutes so the flavors can meld together. Afterward, take the skillet off the heat.
5. Preheat the Oven:
While preparing the next steps, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
6. Assemble the Lasagna:
In a 9×13-inch baking dish, spread a thin layer of marinara sauce on the bottom to prevent sticking. Then, place 3 lasagna noodles over the sauce. Next, spread one-third of the beef mixture over the noodles, followed by one-third of the chopped bacon, some Parmesan cheese, and shredded cheddar cheese. Repeat this layering two more times. For the final layer, generously top with leftover cheddar, Parmesan cheese, and chopped bacon.
7. Enhance with Garlic Touch:
If you want to add a little more flavor, mix ½ cup of mayonnaise with 1 teaspoon of garlic powder. Spread this mixture lightly over the final layer before adding the remaining cheese and bacon on top.
8. Bake:
Cover the lasagna loosely with aluminum 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 minutes, or until the cheese is beautifully bubbly and golden.
9. Cool and Serve:
Once it’s done baking, let the lasagna rest for about 10 minutes before cutting into it. This will help the layers set nicely. Before serving, you can garnish with fresh chopped parsley for a pop of color and fresh flavor if you like!
This Cheesy Parmesan Garlic Bacon Cheeseburger Lasagna is a wonderful, hearty dish. Perfect for family gatherings or a cozy night in—enjoy!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I Use No-Boil Lasagna Noodles?
Yes, no-boil lasagna noodles can work really well in this recipe! Just layer them directly in the dish without pre-cooking. They will soften during baking as they absorb moisture from the sauce and cheese.
Can I Substitute the Ground Beef?
Absolutely! You can substitute ground beef with ground turkey, chicken, or even plant-based meat for a vegetarian version. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time as necessary based on the type of meat you choose.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm them in the microwave or oven. If using the oven, cover with foil to retain moisture and heat until warmed through.
Can I Make This Lasagna Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can assemble the lasagna ahead of time and store it in the fridge for up to 24 hours before baking. Just remember to take it out of the fridge about 30 minutes before baking to bring it to room temperature. You may need to add a few extra minutes to the baking time.
