This tasty lasagna layers juicy beef, crispy bacon, and gooey cheese with a tasty twist of garlic and Parmesan. It’s a comforting meal that everyone will love!
I mean, who knew you could turn a cheeseburger into lasagna? It’s like a hug in a dish! I love serving it with a simple salad on the side—perfect for family dinners or game day!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: This is the heart of the dish, bringing in that classic cheeseburger flavor. If you’re looking for a healthier option, ground turkey or chicken works well, too.
Bacon: Crispy bacon adds that delicious crunch. If you want a lighter version, try turkey bacon, or even skip it entirely for a vegetarian option!
Cheeses: Cheddar and mozzarella create a melty, cheesy layer. I love mixing in Monterey Jack for a little spice! If you’re dairy-free, a nut-based cheese can be a great substitute.
Lasagna Noodles: You can use regular lasagna noodles, but no-boil noodles save time and effort. If gluten is a concern, consider using gluten-free lasagna noodles.
How Do You Get the Best Flavor from Your Meat Sauce?
To ensure your meat sauce is full of flavor, you’ll want to sauté your onions and garlic well. Here’s how:
- Cook the onions in olive oil until they’re soft and slightly golden—this adds a lot of flavor.
- Add the minced garlic and cook just until you can smell it. Overcooking garlic can make it bitter.
- Don’t rush the browning of the meat; letting it caramelize enhances the dish’s overall taste.
Mixing in some of the bacon into the sauce is also key, as it infuses that smoky flavor throughout.
Easy Parmesan Garlic Bacon Cheeseburger Lasagna
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Filling:
- 1 lb ground beef
- 6 slices bacon, cooked and crumbled
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 jar (about 24 oz) marinara or pasta sauce
For the Cheese Layers:
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Other Ingredients:
- 9 lasagna noodles (no-boil or cooked as per package instructions)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Optional: fresh parsley or basil for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious lasagna will take about 15 minutes to prepare and 40-45 minutes to bake, resulting in about 1 hour total. Just a little waiting while it bakes, and then you can enjoy a hearty meal that will satisfy everyone!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Begin by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This ensures it’s hot enough to cook your lasagna evenly.
2. Sauté the Vegetables:
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the finely chopped onion and sauté until it softens, about 3-4 minutes. Then, add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until it’s fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic!
3. Cook the Beef:
Add the ground beef to the skillet, seasoning it with salt and pepper. Cook until it’s browned, breaking it up with a spoon. Make sure to drain any excess fat before moving on to the next step.
4. Combine with Sauce:
Stir in the marinara sauce along with half of the crumbled bacon. Give it a good mix and then remove the skillet from the heat.
5. Layer the Lasagna:
In a 9×13-inch baking dish, spread a thin layer of the meat sauce on the bottom. Place three lasagna noodles over the sauce. Spread one-third of the meat sauce mixture over the noodles, then sprinkle a mix of cheddar, mozzarella, and Parmesan cheese on top. Repeat this layering two more times, finishing with a layer of cheese.
6. Add the Bacon:
Top the final cheese layer with the remaining crumbled bacon for extra flavor and crunch.
7. Bake:
Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and place it in the preheated oven. Bake for 25 minutes, then remove the foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes until the cheese is bubbly and golden.
8. Cool and Serve:
Once baked, let the lasagna cool for about 5-10 minutes before slicing it into squares. This helps it hold its shape. If desired, garnish with fresh parsley or basil before serving.
Enjoy your rich, flavorful Easy Parmesan Garlic Bacon Cheeseburger Lasagna!
FAQ for Easy Parmesan Garlic Bacon Cheeseburger Lasagna
Can I Use Ground Turkey or Chicken Instead of Beef?
Absolutely! Ground turkey or chicken are great alternatives for a lighter dish. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time slightly, as leaner meats may cook faster. Season well to ensure flavor!
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Once cooled, store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. For longer storage, you can freeze individual portions wrapped tightly in plastic wrap and foil for up to 3 months. Just remember to thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating!
Can I Make This Lasagna Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can assemble the lasagna a day in advance and keep it covered in the fridge. Just add an extra 10-15 minutes to the bake time since it will be cold from the fridge when you put it in the oven.
What Can I Serve with This Lasagna?
This lasagna pairs well with a simple green salad or garlic bread for a complete meal. You can also add some steamed vegetables on the side for extra color and nutrition!
