This cheesy lasagna mixes the flavors of a juicy cheeseburger with crispy bacon, all baked to perfection. It’s rich, creamy, and oh-so-satisfying!
Who knew lasagna could be this fun? I mean, layered pasta, melty cheese, and bacon—what more could you want? It’s the ultimate comfort food for your table!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Lasagna Noodles: Traditional pasta work great, but you can use no-boil lasagna noodles for added convenience. They soften while baking, cutting down on prep time!
Ground Beef: I love using lean ground beef, but feel free to swap in turkey or chicken for a lighter option. You can even use plant-based beef for a vegetarian version!
Bacon: Bacon adds amazing flavor, but you can substitute turkey bacon or even crispy prosciutto for a different taste. For a vegetarian option, try sautéed mushrooms or tempeh bacon!
Cheese: Cheddar and mozzarella are a classic combo. If you’re looking for something different, try pepper jack for a spicy kick or gouda for extra creaminess.
Marinara Sauce: You can use homemade sauce if you have the time, or any store-bought jar is fine. A spicier sauce can add an exciting twist to the overall flavor!
How Do I Layer My Lasagna For The Best Results?
Layering is key to getting a great texture and taste from your lasagna. Here’s how to do it right:
- Start with a thin layer of meat sauce at the bottom of your baking dish to prevent sticking.
- Place your cooked lasagna noodles next, and avoid overlapping them too much; they need space to expand.
- Add your meat sauce, followed by a mix of cheeses and the crumbled bacon.
- Drizzle a bit of the creamy sauce to keep things moist and flavorful.
- Repeat these layers until you reach the top of the baking dish, and finish with plenty of cheese for a golden crust!
Taking your time to layer will ensure every bite is full of flavor and ooey-gooey deliciousness!
Easy Parmesan Garlic Bacon Cheeseburger Lasagna
Ingredients:
- 12 lasagna noodles
- 1 lb ground beef
- 8 slices bacon, cooked and crumbled
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 1 (24 oz) jar marinara sauce or pasta sauce
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 1 tsp dried Italian seasoning or oregano
- 2 tbsp olive oil or butter
- Optional: fresh parsley or basil for garnish
Time Needed:
This delicious lasagna takes about 45 minutes to prepare and bake, plus some time to cool before slicing. With around 20 minutes for prep and 25 minutes for baking, it’s quick enough for a weeknight dinner yet impressive enough for guests!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat and Prepare:
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). Meanwhile, cook the lasagna noodles according to the package instructions until they’re al dente. Once they’re ready, drain them and set aside to cool slightly.
2. Sauté the Aromatics:
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil or butter over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic, stirring for about 3-4 minutes, until the onion is soft and fragrant. This will create a lovely base for your beef!
3. Cook the Beef:
Add the ground beef into the skillet. Use a spoon to break it into smaller pieces as it cooks. Cook until the beef is browned and no longer pink, about 5-7 minutes. Be sure to drain any excess fat after cooking.
4. Build a Flavorful Sauce:
To the skillet, stir in the marinara sauce, salt, black pepper, and Italian seasoning. Let everything simmer together for about 5 minutes. This will deepen the flavors and bring all the ingredients together!
5. Make the Creamy Sauce:
In a small bowl, whisk together the heavy cream and grated Parmesan cheese. This creamy mixture will add a rich, tasty layer to your lasagna.
6. Assemble the Lasagna:
Take a 9×13 inch baking dish and spread a thin layer of the meat sauce at the bottom to prevent sticking. Lay down 3 lasagna noodles evenly over the sauce. Then, layer on more meat sauce, followed by a mix of shredded cheddar and mozzarella cheeses, and some crumbled bacon.
7. Add Cream Sauce:
Drizzle some of the creamy Parmesan sauce over the layered cheese. Repeat this layering process two more times until you have filled the dish, making sure that your final layer features a generous mix of both cheddar and mozzarella cheese, along with the remaining bacon on top.
8. Bake the Lasagna:
Cover the baking dish with foil and bake in the preheated oven for 25 minutes. After that, remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes until the cheese is nice and bubbly and golden brown.
9. Rest and Serve:
Once done, pull it out of the oven and let it rest for about 10 minutes. This resting time helps it set, making it easier to slice. Before serving, you can garnish with fresh parsley or basil to add a pop of freshness!
Dig in and enjoy this hearty, flavorful twist on lasagna that combines all the best burger and bacon flavors in every bite!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I Use Veggie or Turkey Bacon Instead of Regular Bacon?
Absolutely! You can substitute turkey bacon or a plant-based bacon alternative for a lighter or vegetarian option. Just cook it until crispy to maintain that delicious texture in your lasagna.
Can I Prepare This Lasagna in Advance?
Yes, you can assemble the lasagna ahead of time and store it in the fridge for up to 24 hours before baking. Just cover it tightly with foil or plastic wrap. It may require a few extra minutes of baking time if it’s cold from the fridge.
What Can I Use Instead of Heavy Cream?
If you need a lighter option, you can use half-and-half or whole milk in place of heavy cream. For a dairy-free alternative, consider using coconut cream, almond milk, or a cashew cream blend, but keep in mind that it may alter the flavor slightly.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover lasagna in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, simply pop it in the oven for about 20 minutes at 350°F (175°C) or microwave individual pieces until heated through.
