This hearty Parmesan Garlic Bacon Cheeseburger Lasagna is a fun twist on two favorites! Layers of pasta, rich cheeseburger filling, crispy bacon, and a cheesy topping make it a crowd-pleaser.
When I make this dish, my kitchen smells amazing and my family can’t wait to dig in. It’s layered goodness that definitely deserves a spot on your dinner table! 😋
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Lasagna Noodles: Traditional lasagna noodles hold everything together. You can substitute with no-boil lasagna noodles to save time, or even use zucchini or eggplant for a low-carb option.
Ground Beef: I love using beef for its flavor and texture. If you want a leaner dish, ground turkey or chicken works well too. For vegetarians, try using lentils or a mix of chopped mushrooms and beans.
Bacon: The chopped bacon adds a smoky crunch. If you’d prefer a healthier option, turkey bacon or even pancetta will fit. You can also skip it entirely for a meatless version.
Cheese: Ricotta is creamy, and mozzarella gives that melty goodness. You can swap ricotta with cottage cheese or a vegan alternative. Also, use any cheese you love—Pepper Jack adds a spicy kick!
Marinara Sauce: A jarred sauce is easy, but homemade is always fresh! If you’re out of marinara, spaghetti sauce or a basic tomato sauce can also work. Just add some Italian herbs to enhance the flavor.
How Do You Make Sure Your Lasagna Layers Don’t Turn Out Soggy?
Layering the lasagna is key to getting it just right. To prevent sogginess, proper cooking of noodles and layering is essential.
- Cook the lasagna noodles until al dente, so they don’t become mushy when baking.
- Spread a thin layer of sauce at the bottom to create a barrier and absorb excess moisture.
- Don’t overload any layer with sauce; keep a balance to maintain structure.
- Let the lasagna rest after baking. This helps the layers set and makes it easier to cut and serve.
How to Make Parmesan Garlic Bacon Cheeseburger Lasagna
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For The Lasagna:
- 12 lasagna noodles
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 lb bacon, chopped
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1 jar (24 oz) marinara sauce
- 2 cups ricotta cheese
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley or basil, chopped (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This tasty lasagna will take about 1 hour to prepare and an additional 40-45 minutes to bake. So, in total, you’re looking at around 1 hour and 45 minutes before it’s ready to enjoy. Perfect for a cozy dinner!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat and Prepare:
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). While that’s warming up, cook the lasagna noodles according to the package instructions, then drain and set them aside for later use.
2. Cook the Bacon and Vegetables:
In a large skillet, cook the chopped bacon over medium heat until crispy. Once cooked, remove the bacon and let it drain on a paper towel. Leave a little bit of the fat in the skillet to add flavor!
3. Sauté the Onions and Garlic:
Add the diced onion to the skillet and cook until it’s softened. This should take a few minutes. Then, toss in the minced garlic and let it cook for another minute, stirring so it doesn’t burn.
4. Add the Ground Beef:
Now, add in the ground beef. Season it with the Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper. Cook everything until the beef is browned and fully cooked, then drain any excess grease.
5. Combine with Marinara:
Stir in the jar of marinara sauce and mix in half of the crispy bacon bits you cooked earlier (save the rest for later!). This will be your delicious meat sauce.
6. Make the Cheese Mixture:
In a separate mixing bowl, combine the ricotta cheese with half of the shredded mozzarella and cheddar cheese. This cheesy layer will add creaminess to your lasagna!
7. Assemble Your Lasagna:
In a 9×13-inch baking dish, start by spreading a thin layer of the meat sauce at the bottom. Then, place three lasagna noodles over the sauce. Spread half of the ricotta cheese mixture right on top of the noodles.
8. Repeat the Layers:
Add another layer of the meat sauce over the ricotta cheese, and sprinkle some Parmesan cheese on top. Repeat this process: three more noodles, the remaining ricotta mixture, more meat sauce, and more Parmesan.
9. Final Touches:
For the last layer, place your final three noodles on top, spread the rest of the meat sauce over them, and finish off with the remaining mozzarella and cheddar cheeses. Don’t forget to sprinkle the rest of the bacon on top!
10. Bake the Lasagna:
Cover your baking dish with aluminum foil and pop it in the oven. Bake for 25 minutes. After that time, remove the foil and bake for another 15-20 minutes, until everything is golden and bubbly.
11. Let it Rest and Garnish:
Once done, take it out of the oven and let it sit for about 10-15 minutes. This helps it set and makes it easier to serve. Before you dig in, sprinkle some fresh parsley or basil on top for a burst of flavor!
Now you’re all set to enjoy your sumptuous Parmesan Garlic Bacon Cheeseburger Lasagna! Dig in!
Can I Use Ground Turkey or Chicken Instead of Beef?
Absolutely! Ground turkey or chicken can be a leaner alternative to beef. Just be aware that they can dry out more easily, so you might want to add a little extra marinara sauce or a splash of broth to keep the mixture moist while cooking.
What Can I Substitute for Ricotta Cheese?
If you don’t have ricotta cheese, you can use cottage cheese as a substitute. For a creamier texture, blend the cottage cheese until smooth. Alternatively, a mixture of cream cheese and sour cream can also work well!
How to Store Leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Make sure to let the lasagna cool completely before sealing it. For longer storage, consider freezing portions. Just wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil, and they can last for up to 3 months!
Can I Prepare This Dish in Advance?
Yes! You can assemble the lasagna a day ahead of time and store it, covered, in the refrigerator. When ready to bake, just add an extra 10-15 minutes to the baking time to ensure it’s heated through.
