This Cheesy Parmesan Garlic Bacon Cheeseburger Lasagna is a fun twist on two favorites! Layers of cheesy goodness, crispy bacon, and flavorful beef come together to create a delicious meal.
Honestly, who can resist the combo of lasagna and cheeseburgers? When I make this, I save some for later. It’s just too tasty not to have leftovers! 🍔🧀
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: I love using lean ground beef for this lasagna, but you can substitute it with ground turkey or chicken if you’re looking for a lighter option. Plant-based meat crumbles work great too for a vegetarian version!
Bacon: The crispy bacon adds amazing flavor! If bacon isn’t your thing, try turkey bacon or even cooked spinach for a healthier twist. You can also leave it out completely if you prefer a meatless meal.
Cheeses: Cheddar and mozzarella are my go-to choices. However, feel free to mix it up! Pepper jack cheese adds a nice kick. For a dairy-free option, use plant-based cheeses that melt well.
Ricotta Cheese: Ricotta is key for creaminess, but if you can’t find it, cottage cheese is a suitable replacement. Just blend it until smooth for a similar texture.
How Do You Layer Lasagna for the Best Results?
Layering is essential for a delicious lasagna! Here’s how to do it right:
- Start with a layer of meat sauce on the bottom to prevent sticking.
- Place the cooked noodles on the sauce, slightly overlapping them for an even base.
- Add the ricotta cheese mixture for creaminess and richness.
- Top with a mix of mozzarella and cheddar for that gooey, cheesy topping.
- Repeat the layers, ensuring you finish with a noodle layer topped with sauce and extra cheese.
This method not only makes the lasagna visually appealing but also ensures every slice is packed with flavor. Just be careful not to overfill; too many layers can make it hard to cut!
Cheesy Parmesan Garlic Bacon Cheeseburger Lasagna
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Filling:
- 1 lb (450g) ground beef
- 6-8 strips bacon, cooked and crumbled
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cups marinara sauce or tomato sauce
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 1 tsp dried basil
- Salt and pepper to taste
For the Layers:
- 9 lasagna noodles, cooked according to package instructions
- 2 cups ricotta cheese
- 2 eggs
- 3 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 ½ cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious lasagna will take about 15-20 minutes to prep and around 45 minutes to bake, plus a little time to rest before serving. In total, you can expect to spend about 1 hour and 15 minutes from start to finish.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This is essential for baking your lasagna to perfection!
2. Cook the Beef & Bacon:
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic, and sauté until they become translucent and fragrant—this should take about 3-5 minutes. Next, add the ground beef to the skillet and cook it until it is browned and no longer pink. Use a spoon to break it apart as it cooks. Once done, drain any excess grease.
3. Make the Meat Sauce:
To the cooked beef, stir in your marinara sauce, dried oregano, dried basil, salt, and pepper. Let it simmer for about 5-10 minutes to meld the flavors together.
4. Prepare the Ricotta Mixture:
In a medium bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, eggs, and half of the grated Parmesan cheese. Mix until smooth and creamy!
5. Assemble the Lasagna:
Spread a thin layer of the meat sauce on the bottom of a 9×13 inch baking dish. Place three lasagna noodles over the sauce. Next, spread one-third of the ricotta mixture over the noodles, followed by one-third of the shredded cheddar and mozzarella cheese. Then, sprinkle one-third of the crumbled bacon on top. Repeat this layering process two more times!
6. Final Layers:
For your final layer, add another layer of noodles, top it with the remaining meat sauce, and sprinkle on the remaining Parmesan cheese and extra cheddar cheese. If you have any bacon left, sprinkle it on top for extra flavor!
7. Bake the Lasagna:
Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake it in the preheated oven for 30 minutes. After that, remove the foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes until the cheese is bubbly and golden.
8. Rest and Serve:
Once done baking, let the lasagna rest for about 10 minutes before slicing. This will help it hold its shape when serving delicious slices!
And there you have it! A hearty, savory Cheesy Parmesan Garlic Bacon Cheeseburger Lasagna that perfectly combines all those bold flavors in every bite. Enjoy your meal! 🍽️
FAQ About Cheesy Parmesan Garlic Bacon Cheeseburger Lasagna
Can I Use No-Boil Lasagna Noodles?
Absolutely! No-boil lasagna noodles are a great time-saver. Just layer them as directed in the recipe without the need to pre-cook. They’ll soften during baking, creating a delicious lasagna.
What Can I Substitute for Ricotta Cheese?
If you don’t have ricotta cheese on hand, cottage cheese is a good alternative. Just blend it until smooth for a similar texture. You can also try cream cheese for a richer flavor!
Can I Prepare This Lasagna Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can assemble the lasagna ahead of time! Just cover it with foil and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours before baking. When you’re ready to cook, you may need to add an extra 10-15 minutes to the baking time.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes or in the microwave until heated through.
