This fun twist on lasagna features layers of cheesy goodness, crispy bacon, and the tasty combo of parmesan and garlic. It’s a hearty delight for burger lovers!
Honestly, who can resist the flavor of bacon in a cozy lasagna? It’s like all your favorite comfort foods in one! Just layer, bake, and enjoy every cheesy bite! 😋
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: Use lean ground beef for less grease. Alternatively, turkey or chicken can be used for a lighter option if you’re looking to reduce fat.
Bacon: Bacon adds amazing flavor. If you’re looking for a healthier alternative, turkey bacon works well. For a vegetarian version, consider smoked tempeh or mushrooms for a similar taste.
Onion & Garlic: Yellow onions and fresh garlic give great depth. If you’re in a pinch, onion powder and garlic powder can substitute, but fresh gives better flavor.
Lasagna Noodles: Traditional cooked noodles work, but no-boil noodles save time. Gluten-free noodles are also available if needed, just be sure to check cooking times!
Cheeses: While I recommend cheddar and mozzarella, feel free to mix it up! Monterey Jack or Colby cheese can add nice flavors. Vegan cheese options also work well in dairy-free versions.
What’s the Trick for Layering Your Lasagna Perfectly?
Layering might seem simple, but it’s essential for a great lasagna structure! Start with a thin layer of the beef mixture at the bottom, which helps prevent sticking. Then, spread the noodles evenly. It’s crucial to cover the noodles completely to keep them moist.
- Use three noodles per layer, and make sure to leave some space between them to allow for expansion.
- Alternate your meat mixture and cheeses for flavor and a gooey texture that everyone loves.
- Finish with a generous topping of grated Parmesan and crumbled bacon for that crispy, flavorful layer on top.
Letting the lasagna rest after baking is key; it allows the layers to set, making serving easier!
Easy Parmesan Garlic Bacon Cheeseburger Lasagna
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Meat Mixture:
- 1 lb ground beef
- 6-8 strips bacon, cooked and crumbled
- 1/2 cup yellow onion, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup marinara or spaghetti sauce
For the Creamy Sauce:
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
For The Layers:
- 9 cooked lasagna noodles (or no-boil noodles)
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious lasagna will take about 40 minutes to prepare and cook. You’ll need around 15 minutes for prep work, and approximately 25-30 minutes in the oven. Plus, don’t forget to let it sit for 10 minutes before serving so it holds its shape!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepping the Oven and Bacon:
First things first, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). While that’s warming up, cook your bacon in a large skillet over medium heat until it’s nice and crispy. Once cooked, remove the bacon from the pan, crumble it up, and set it aside. Be sure to drain most of the bacon grease, but leave about 1 tablespoon in the pan for flavor.
2. Cooking the Onion and Garlic:
In the same skillet with the leftover bacon fat, add your chopped onion. Sauté it for about 3-4 minutes until it’s soft. Next, add the minced garlic and cook for another minute. Your kitchen should start smelling amazing!
3. Adding the Ground Beef:
Now, it’s time to add the ground beef to the skillet. Break it apart and cook until it’s no longer pink—this should take about 6-8 minutes. Be sure to drain any excess fat afterward.
4. Mixing in the Sauce:
Stir in the marinara sauce along with mayo, garlic powder, oregano, salt, and pepper. Let this simmer for about 2-3 minutes so all those delicious flavors can come together.
5. Start Assembling Your Lasagna:
Grab a greased 9×13 inch baking dish, and start spreading a thin layer of your beef mixture on the bottom. Now, layer 3 lasagna noodles over the beef mixture. Follow that with one-third of the remaining beef mixture, a sprinkle of crumbled bacon, and a mix of cheddar and mozzarella cheese. Yum!
6. Repeat the Layers:
Repeat the layering two more times until you run out of ingredients. Make sure your last layer is generously topped with cheese and bacon. Finally, sprinkle that grated Parmesan cheese on top for extra flavor!
7. Baking Time:
Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake for 25 minutes. Then, remove the foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes—or until the top is bubbly and golden brown.
8. Rest and Serve:
Once it’s done, let the lasagna rest for about 10 minutes before slicing it up. This will help the layers stay intact when you serve it. Enjoy your indulgent, cheesy bacon cheeseburger lasagna!
FAQ for Easy Parmesan Garlic Bacon Cheeseburger Lasagna
Can I Use Turkey or Chicken Instead of Ground Beef?
Absolutely! Ground turkey or chicken can be a leaner alternative to beef. Just be sure to cook it thoroughly, and it may cook a little faster than beef, so keep an eye on it.
What Can I Substitute for Mayonnaise in This Recipe?
If you’re not keen on mayonnaise, yogurt or sour cream can work well too, lending a creamy texture. You can also leave it out entirely, though that may affect the creaminess of the sauce.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. You can reheat individual portions in the microwave or warm it up in the oven covered with foil to prevent drying out.
Can I Freeze This Lasagna?
Yes, you can freeze this lasagna before or after baking! If freezing before baking, cover it tightly with foil, and it will keep well for up to 3 months. When ready to bake, add about 30 minutes to the baking time when cooking from frozen.
