This fun twist on lasagna features layers of pasta, tasty ground beef, crispy bacon, and a delicious mix of garlic, cheese, and Parmesan. It’s a hearty meal perfect for cozy dinners!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Lasagna noodles: You can choose regular or no-boil noodles based on your time and preference. If you want a gluten-free version, there are gluten-free lasagna noodles available that work well in this dish.
Ground beef: For a leaner option, you can use ground turkey or chicken. They still offer great flavor, though the texture might be a bit different. A mix of meats like beef and pork also adds nice depth.
Bacon: Bacon adds a smoky crunch, but you can substitute turkey bacon for a lighter option or omit it for a vegetarian version. Just keep in mind that it won’t have the same savory taste.
Cheese: Cheddar and mozzarella are classic choices, but feel free to mix in Gouda or Monterey Jack for a different flavor. You can use dairy-free cheeses if you’re looking for a vegan option.
Tomato sauce: If you want to skip the canned stuff, you can use crushed tomatoes and add your own spices for a fresh taste. Or, a jar of marinara sauce can work too.
How Do I Make Sure My Lasagna Layers Stay Together?
The key to keeping your lasagna layers intact is how you assemble it. Here’s how to create perfect layers:
- Start by spreading a thin layer of meat sauce at the bottom of the baking dish. This prevents sticking.
- When adding noodles, ensure they don’t overlap too much; this helps with even cooking.
- For each layer, gently spread the meat sauce and sprinkle cheese evenly. Don’t overload this layer; otherwise, it can get messy.
- After layering, be sure to let the lasagna rest after baking. This helps it set up so that slices come out neatly.
Easy Parmesan Garlic Bacon Cheeseburger Lasagna
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Lasagna:
- 9 lasagna noodles (regular or no-boil)
- 1 lb ground beef
- 8 slices bacon, cooked and crumbled
- 3 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 1 can (15 oz) tomato sauce
- 1/2 cup ketchup
- 1 tbsp mustard (yellow or Dijon)
- 1 tsp Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- Fresh parsley (optional, for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious casserole takes about 15 minutes to prepare, plus 35 minutes of baking time. Overall, you’ll be looking at about 50 minutes before it’s ready to serve. Let it rest for 10 minutes after baking so it holds its shape when sliced.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat and Prepare:
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). If you’re using regular lasagna noodles, cook them according to the package instructions until they’re al dente. Once done, drain them and set aside.
2. Cook the Beef Mixture:
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic, and sauté until the onions become translucent and the garlic is fragrant—this should take about 2-3 minutes. Then, add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it up into smaller pieces with your spoon. If there’s any extra fat, drain it off.
3. Make the Sauce:
Now, stir in the tomato sauce, ketchup, mustard, Worcestershire sauce, oregano, salt, and pepper. Let this simmer for about 5 minutes to blend all the yummy flavors together.
4. Assemble the Lasagna:
In a 9×13 inch baking dish, start by spreading a thin layer of the meat sauce on the bottom. Place 3 lasagna noodles over that. Then, spread about one-third of the remaining meat sauce over the noodles. Next, sprinkle one-third each of the cheddar cheese, mozzarella cheese, Parmesan cheese, and crumbled bacon. Repeat these layers two more times with the noodles, sauce, cheeses, and bacon.
5. Final Touches:
For the top layer, finish off with an extra sprinkle of Parmesan and any remaining bacon bits for that extra crunch. Cover the dish loosely with foil to prevent sticking.
6. Bake:
Place the lasagna in your preheated oven and bake for 25 minutes. After that time, carefully remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes until the top is melted and slightly golden.
7. Cool and Serve:
Once done, take it out of the oven and let the lasagna rest for 10 minutes before slicing. This will help the layers stay together when serving. Garnish with fresh parsley if desired, and enjoy your delicious meal!
Bon appétit! Enjoy your rich and flavorful Parmesan Garlic Bacon Cheeseburger Lasagna!
FAQ for Easy Parmesan Garlic Bacon Cheeseburger Lasagna
Can I Use Ground Turkey Instead of Beef?
Absolutely! Ground turkey is a great lean substitute if you’re looking to lighten up the dish. Just remember that it may require a bit of extra seasoning to maintain the flavor profile.
Can I Prepare This Lasagna Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can assemble the lasagna a day in advance! Simply cover it tightly with foil and refrigerate. When you’re ready to bake, add an extra 10-15 minutes to the cooking time, as it’ll be cold from the fridge.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover lasagna in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply microwave individual portions or place the whole dish back in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through.
What Can I Serve With This Lasagna?
This hearty lasagna pairs perfectly with a simple side salad or garlic bread. You can also serve it with roasted vegetables for a well-rounded meal!
