This cheesy lasagna is packed with layers of rich pasta, juicy beef, crispy bacon, and a sprinkle of Parmesan. It’s a fun twist on two favorite dishes!
No need to choose between burgers and lasagna anymore! I love how it combines all the great flavors. Plus, it’s easy to make and perfect for a crowd. Bring on the seconds! 🍽️
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: This is the star of the dish, giving that meaty flavor. If you’re looking for a leaner option, ground turkey or chicken work well too. For a vegetarian version, try using lentils or plant-based meat substitutes.
Bacon: Bacon adds a crispy, savory element. If you want a healthier substitute, try turkey bacon, or if you’re avoiding meat, crispy mushrooms can add a similar texture and flavor.
Onion and Garlic: These ingredients build a wonderful base flavor. If you don’t have fresh garlic, garlic powder can be a quick swap. Sweet onions also add a nice touch but can be replaced with shallots for a milder taste.
No-Boil Lasagna Noodles: Using no-boil noodles saves time! If you can’t find them, regular lasagna noodles work too; just make sure to boil them according to package instructions before layering.
Cheeses: The cheesy goodness is essential! While I love cheddar and mozzarella, you can use any melty cheese you prefer, like provolone or Monterey Jack. For extra flavor, add some crumbled feta or goat cheese.
How Can I Layer My Lasagna Perfectly?
Layering might seem tricky, but it’s simple once you get the hang of it! Start with a bit of sauce to prevent sticking. Each layer should consist of noodles followed by the meat sauce mix, then a generous sprinkle of cheeses and bacon. Here’s a quick guide:
- Start with sauce on the bottom, then noodles.
- Add meat sauce and sprinkle cheeses.
- Repeat layers for a total of three, finishing with noodles and a top layer of sauce and cheese.
- Cover it in foil while baking to keep the moisture in, then uncover for the final baking time to get that cheesy top golden.
This process ensures every bite is packed with flavor and textures. Don’t forget to let it rest before serving—this helps with cutting nice, clean pieces!
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Easy Parmesan Garlic Bacon Cheeseburger Lasagna
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Meat Sauce:
- 1 lb (450g) ground beef
- 8 slices bacon
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 (24 oz) jar marinara or spaghetti sauce
For the Lasagna Layers:
- 9 no-boil lasagna noodles
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 2 tbsp olive oil
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious lasagna takes about 15 minutes to prep and 40 minutes to cook. You’ll need a total of about an hour, including a brief resting time before serving. It’s perfect for a cozy dinner or gathering!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Begin by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C) so it’s nice and hot when your lasagna is ready to bake!
2. Cook the Bacon:
In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the bacon until it’s crispy. Once cooked, remove it and drain on paper towels. Chop the bacon into pieces and set aside, but don’t discard the drippings just yet—reserve about 1 tablespoon in the skillet!
3. Sauté the Vegetables:
Add 2 tablespoons of olive oil to the skillet with the reserved bacon grease. Toss in the chopped onion and sauté for about 3-4 minutes or until it’s translucent. Then, add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
4. Brown the Ground Beef:
Add the ground beef to the skillet. Season it with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. Cook, breaking it apart with a spoon, until it’s fully browned and no longer pink. Drain any excess fat from the skillet.
5. Combine with Marinara:
Stir in the marinara sauce and mix everything well. Reduce the heat and let it simmer for about 5 minutes to mingle those delicious flavors.
6. Assemble the Lasagna:
In a 9×13 inch baking dish, start by spreading a thin layer of the meat sauce. Place 3 no-boil lasagna noodles over the sauce. Then spread 1/3 of the meat sauce over the noodles.
Sprinkle 1/3 each of shredded cheddar cheese, mozzarella cheese, half of the Parmesan cheese, and the chopped bacon over the sauce. Repeat the layers two more times: noodles, meat sauce, cheeses, and bacon.
7. Top it Off:
On the final layer, place the remaining noodles, spread the remaining meat sauce over the top, and finish with the rest of the shredded cheeses and bacon.
8. Bake:
Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil (to prevent sticking, you can spray the foil with cooking spray). Bake in the preheated oven for 30 minutes. After 30 minutes, remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes or until the cheese is bubbly and golden.
9. Let it Rest:
Once out of the oven, let your lasagna rest for about 10 minutes before slicing. This helps the layers set and makes for beautiful pieces.
Enjoy your hearty, flavorful Parmesan Garlic Bacon Cheeseburger Lasagna!
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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I Use Ground Turkey Instead of Beef?
Absolutely! Ground turkey is a great leaner alternative. Just be mindful that it might be a bit drier, so consider adding extra seasonings or a splash of broth to enhance the flavor.
What if I Don’t Have No-Boil Lasagna Noodles?
No problem! Regular lasagna noodles can be used. Just cook them according to the package instructions before layering them in your lasagna to ensure they are tender and cook properly.
Can I Make This Lasagna Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can assemble the lasagna a day in advance. Cover it tightly and store it in the refrigerator. When you’re ready to bake, it may take a few extra minutes in the oven since it will be cold from the fridge.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover lasagna in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. You can reheat it in the microwave or in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through. Adding a splash of water can help keep it moist during reheating!
