This Easy Parmesan Garlic Bacon Cheeseburger Lasagna is a fun twist on lasagna. It layers tasty beef, crispy bacon, and rich cheese in a hearty dish that everyone will love!
Who wouldn’t want to enjoy lasagna that tastes like a cheeseburger? I like to serve it with a side salad for a little crunch and freshness. Trust me, dinner just got a lot more exciting! 😋
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: The main protein here! You could use ground turkey or chicken for a lighter version. If you like a bit of spice, try using Italian sausage instead!
Bacon: Bacon adds a great crunch and flavor. If you’re looking for a healthier option, turkey bacon works well too, or you can skip it entirely for a vegetarian version by adding more veggies.
Cheese: Cheddar and mozzarella provide that gooey, cheesy goodness. If you want a bit of a kick, pepper jack cheese is a great substitute. You can also use vegan cheese for a dairy-free option.
Ricotta Cheese: Adds creaminess to the lasagna. If you don’t have ricotta, cottage cheese blended until smooth makes a good alternative. You can also use tofu for a non-dairy option.
Mayonnaise: While it adds richness, feel free to replace it with Greek yogurt or sour cream for a tangy twist. Both will keep your layers creamy!
How Do You Layer a Lasagna Without Making a Mess?
Layering lasagna can seem tricky, but it’s easier than you think! Start with a little sauce or cheese mixture on the bottom to prevent sticking. This first layer is crucial.
- Place down your no-boil lasagna noodles flat. They expand while baking, so don’t worry about overlaps!
- Spread your beef and bacon mix evenly over the noodles.
- Top with a generous amount of your cheese mixture to keep everything moist.
- Repeat these layers until your dish is filled, finishing with a cheese layer on top.
- Don’t forget to rest the lasagna after baking. This helps it set and makes slicing neater!
Easy Parmesan Garlic Bacon Cheeseburger Lasagna
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Filling:
- 1 lb ground beef
- 6-8 slices bacon, diced
- 3 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp onion powder
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- Optional: 1 tsp smoked paprika or a dash of Worcestershire sauce for extra flavor
For the Layers:
- 1 package no-boil lasagna noodles (about 9 noodles)
- 1 cup ricotta cheese
- 1 cup sour cream
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious lasagna takes about 15 minutes to prep and then about 40 minutes to bake. You’ll be enjoying your tasty creation in less than an hour, plus a little time to let it rest!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat and Cook Bacon:
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the diced bacon until it’s nice and crispy. Once done, remove the bacon from the skillet and place it on paper towels to drain. Keep about 1-2 tablespoons of bacon grease in the skillet for flavor!
2. Brown the Ground Beef:
Add your ground beef to the skillet with the retained bacon grease. Cook it until it’s fully browned, breaking it up into smaller pieces as you go. If there’s too much fat, you can drain it. Then, stir in the minced garlic, onion powder, salt, pepper, and any optional spices you prefer. Cook for another minute or two to let those yummy flavors mix together, then remove the skillet from heat.
3. Prepare the Cheese Mixture:
In a separate bowl, mix together the ricotta cheese, sour cream, mayonnaise, and half of the Parmesan cheese until everything is smooth and creamy. This will be a delicious layer of flavor!
4. Layer the Lasagna:
Grab a large baking dish and spread a thin layer of the ricotta mixture across the bottom. Place a layer of the no-boil lasagna noodles over it. Next, spoon about 1/3 of the beef and bacon mixture over the noodles, then sprinkle some of the cheddar and mozzarella cheeses on top. Repeat this layering process until you’ve used all the ingredients, finishing with a layer of cheese on top. Don’t forget to sprinkle the reserved bacon and remaining Parmesan cheese on top for that crispy finish!
5. Bake the Lasagna:
Cover your baking dish with aluminum foil to prevent it from browning too quickly and bake in the preheated oven for about 25 minutes. After that, remove the foil and continue baking for another 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown.
6. Let it Rest and Serve:
Once baked, let your lasagna rest for about 10 minutes before slicing. This will make it easier to cut and serve. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley for a nice touch of color and extra flavor!
Now, enjoy your comforting, cheesy, and bacon-packed lasagna that tastes just like a mouthwatering garlic bacon cheeseburger in every bite! Bon appétit!
FAQ for Easy Parmesan Garlic Bacon Cheeseburger Lasagna
Can I Use Ground Turkey Instead of Beef?
Absolutely! Ground turkey is a great lean alternative that still provides wonderful flavor. Just make sure to cook it thoroughly, as with ground beef.
Can I Make This Lasagna Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can! Assemble the lasagna up to a day in advance and store it covered in the fridge. When ready to bake, just add an extra 5-10 minutes to the cooking time.
Can I Freeze Leftovers?
Definitely! Place any leftovers in an airtight container and freeze for up to 3 months. To reheat, simply thaw in the fridge overnight and then warm in the oven or microwave until heated through.
What Are Some Good Side Dishes to Serve With This Lasagna?
This lasagna pairs well with a simple green salad or garlic bread. You can also serve it with roasted vegetables for a balanced meal!
