This Cheesy Parmesan Garlic Bacon Cheeseburger Lasagna is a fun twist on classic lasagna! It layers pasta with ground beef, crispy bacon, gooey cheese, and a tasty garlic sauce.
With all that cheesy goodness, who could resist a slice? I love serving it with a side salad to feel a little healthy before I go back for seconds! 😂
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Lasagna Noodles: You can use traditional lasagna noodles or opt for no-boil noodles for convenience. I often use whole wheat noodles for a slightly healthier option!
Ground Beef: Lean ground turkey or chicken can be great substitutes if you want a lighter version. Just adjust the seasoning, as they can be milder in flavor.
Bacon: If you’re looking for a healthier alternative, turkey bacon works well. You’ll still get that smoky taste, just with fewer calories.
Cheeses: While cheddar and mozzarella are classic, feel free to mix in other cheeses, like Gouda or pepper jack, for a fun twist. Just keep in mind, different cheeses can change the flavor.
Mayonnaise: If you’re not a fan of mayo, you can substitute it with Greek yogurt. It will still give you that creamy texture without an eggy flavor.
What’s the Best Way to Layer Lasagna?
Layering can feel tricky, but with a few easy steps, it becomes second nature! Start with sauce to prevent sticking. Here’s how to do it right:
- Spread a thin layer of beef sauce on the bottom of your baking dish. This helps prevent sticking.
- Layer 4 noodles across the sauce, overlapping slightly if needed.
- Spread your creamy ricotta mixture, followed by the cheese mix and bacon bits.
- Repeat for two more layers, always topping off with cheese and bacon for that fantastic final touch!
Patience is key! Letting the lasagna rest after baking helps it hold together better when slicing. Enjoy your cooking journey!
Cheesy Parmesan Garlic Bacon Cheeseburger Lasagna
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 12 lasagna noodles
- 1 lb ground beef
- 6-8 slices bacon
- 3 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 cups ricotta cheese
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 2 cups marinara sauce or tomato sauce
- ½ cup mayonnaise (for the garlic sauce)
- 1 tsp dried Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tbsp olive oil
Time Needed:
This delicious lasagna will take about 20 minutes to prepare and about 40 minutes to cook—so around 1 hour total! Make sure to let it rest for 10 minutes after baking, so it holds together nicely when you slice it. Perfect for a cozy dinner!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepping the Lasagna Noodles:
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). Cook the lasagna noodles according to the package instructions until they’re al dente (meaning they still have a little bite). Drain them and set them aside for later.
2. Cooking the Bacon:
In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the bacon until it’s crispy. Once done, remove it from the skillet and let it drain on paper towels. When it’s cool, crumble it into small pieces.
3. Sautéing the Aromatics:
Using the same skillet, add a bit of olive oil if needed. Sauté the chopped onion and minced garlic until they become fragrant and translucent—this usually takes about 3-4 minutes.
4. Brown the Beef:
Now, add the ground beef to the skillet. Season with salt, pepper, and the Italian seasoning, then cook it until it’s browned and no longer pink. Drain any excess fat if necessary—nobody wants greasy lasagna!
5. Mixing the Sauce:
Stir the marinara sauce into the beef mixture and let it simmer for about 5 minutes on low heat so the flavors can mingle beautifully.
6. Making the Ricotta Mixture:
In a small bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, grated Parmesan cheese, and mayonnaise. Mix them well until you have a creamy garlic sauce—this adds a tasty twist to the layers!
7. Assembling the Lasagna:
Grab a 9×13 inch baking dish and start by spreading a thin layer of the beef and sauce mixture on the bottom. This prevents the noodles from sticking.
8. Creating the Layers:
Next, lay down 4 lasagna noodles over the sauce. Spread some of the ricotta mixture over the noodles, then sprinkle a mix of shredded cheddar and mozzarella cheese, along with some crumbled bacon. Yum!
9. Repeat Layers:
Keep repeating this layering process two more times, making sure to finish with a layer of noodles on top. You should have three layers of sauce, ricotta, cheese, and bacon goodness!
10. Top It Off:
For the crowning glory, top the final layer with an extra helping of cheddar and mozzarella cheese and sprinkle on any remaining bacon.
11. Baking the Lasagna:
Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake it in the preheated oven for 25 minutes. After that, remove the foil and bake for another 10-15 minutes until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown.
12. Rest and Serve:
Once baked, let the lasagna rest for about 10 minutes before slicing. This allows it to firm up so you can serve beautiful pieces without a messy plate!
Enjoy your delicious Cheesy Parmesan Garlic Bacon Cheeseburger Lasagna with family or friends—it’s sure to be a hit!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I Use No-Boil Lasagna Noodles?
Yes, no-boil lasagna noodles are a great time-saver! Just layer them directly into the dish without pre-cooking. However, you might need to add a bit more sauce to ensure they cook properly and stay moist.
How Can I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover lasagna in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. You can also freeze it for up to 3 months. To reheat, simply warm it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through, or use the microwave for quicker results.
Can I Make This Lasagna Vegetarian?
Absolutely! Substitute the ground beef with a mix of your favorite veggies like mushrooms, bell peppers, and zucchini, or use a meat substitute for extra protein. Just cook the veggies until soft before layering!
What Can I Serve with the Lasagna?
This cheesy treat pairs perfectly with a simple green salad or garlic bread. Puff it up even further by serving it with a side of steamed vegetables for a balanced meal!
