This cheesy and hearty lasagna combines layers of goodness with Parmesan, garlic, and crispy bacon between pasta sheets. It’s a fun twist on both cheeseburgers and lasagna!
You’ll want to keep this recipe close—it’s the perfect way to impress friends or family at dinner. Plus, who doesn’t love bacon? I promise you’ll be reaching for seconds! 🤤
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Lasagna Noodles: Traditional lasagna noodles work best here, but you can use no-boil noodles for easier preparation. They save time and are perfect for busy cooks!
Ground Beef: I love using lean ground beef, but for a healthier or different flavor, you can substitute ground turkey or chicken. Just keep the cooking times similar.
Bacon: The crispy bacon adds a rich flavor. If you’re looking for a healthier option, turkey bacon works well too. You can even skip it entirely for a lighter version.
Cheese: For the cream cheese, a low-fat version can reduce calories. As for the mozzarella and cheddar, feel free to experiment with pepper jack for a spicier kick or a vegan cheese for a dairy-free version!
Marinara Sauce: Homemade marinara is fantastic, but jarred sauces save time. Choose one without too many added sugars for a cleaner taste.
How Can I Make Sure My Layering is Perfect?
Layering is essential for a great lasagna. Start by spreading meat sauce on the bottom to prevent sticking. Then, alternate between noodles, cream cheese mixture, and cheeses carefully.
- Lay down 3 noodles first, ensuring they overlap slightly.
- Spread half of the cream cheese mixture evenly for creaminess.
- After adding cheese, make sure to pack the layers gently but firmly, avoiding gaps.
Don’t rush; each layer builds up the flavors beautifully. Keep everything balanced for fantastic results every time!
Parmesan Garlic Bacon Cheeseburger Lasagna
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Lasagna:
- 9 lasagna noodles
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1/2 lb bacon, chopped
- 1 onion, finely chopped
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 cups marinara sauce
For the Cheese Mixture:
- 1 cup cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup sour cream
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
For Seasoning:
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
For Garnish:
- Fresh parsley, chopped
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious lasagna takes about 40 minutes to prepare and will need another 40 minutes to bake. All together, you’ll need around 1 hour and 20 minutes to enjoy this cheesy, flavorful dish!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Noodles:
First, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Cook the lasagna noodles by following the package instructions. Once they’re done, drain them and set them aside. This makes it easy to layer later!
2. Cook Bacon and Beef:
In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the chopped bacon until it turns crispy. Use a slotted spoon to remove it from the skillet and set it aside. In the same skillet, brown the ground beef, breaking it apart with a spoon until it’s fully cooked.
3. Sauté Onions and Garlic:
Add the finely chopped onion and minced garlic to the skillet with the cooked beef. Sauté everything for about 3-4 minutes, or until the onion becomes translucent. If there’s excess fat in the skillet, drain it off for a lighter dish.
4. Mix in Sauces and Seasoning:
Next, stir in the marinara sauce, crispy bacon, Italian seasoning, and a sprinkle of salt and pepper. Let this mixture simmer on low heat for about 5 minutes to let the flavors blend together nicely.
5. Make the Cheese Filling:
In a separate bowl, combine the cream cheese, sour cream, and grated Parmesan cheese. Mix well until the mixture is smooth and creamy. This will add a delicious cheesy layer to your lasagna!
6. Assemble the Lasagna:
In a 9×13 inch baking dish, start by spreading a layer of the meat sauce on the bottom. Lay down 3 of the lasagna noodles over the sauce. Then, spread half of the cream cheese mixture on top, followed by half of the mozzarella and cheddar cheeses.
7. Layer Again:
Repeat the layers: add another layer of meat sauce, 3 noodles, the remaining cream cheese mixture, and half of the remaining mozzarella and cheddar cheeses. This adds depth and flavor to every bite!
8. Final Layer:
Place the final 3 noodles on top, pour the remainder of the meat sauce over, and finish with the rest of the mozzarella and cheddar cheeses. This will create a cheesey, golden top!
9. Bake the Lasagna:
Cover the dish tightly with aluminum foil and bake it in the preheated oven for 25 minutes. After that, remove the foil and bake for an additional 15 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden. Your kitchen will smell amazing!
10. Serve and Enjoy:
Once baked, take the lasagna out of the oven and let it cool for about 10 minutes before slicing. This will help it hold together when you serve it. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley, and enjoy your delicious Parmesan Garlic Bacon Cheeseburger Lasagna!
Can I Use Whole Wheat Lasagna Noodles Instead?
Absolutely! Whole wheat lasagna noodles can be a great substitute for regular noodles. Just be sure to cook them according to package instructions as they may have slightly different cooking times. Also, check if they need to be boiled or can be used directly in the lasagna.
How Can I Make This Dish Vegetarian?
If you’d like to go vegetarian, simply omit the ground beef and bacon. You can replace the meat with chopped mushrooms, zucchini, or a mix of your favorite vegetables. Just sauté them until tender before adding them to the sauce mixture!
What Should I Do with Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply pop them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 20-25 minutes, or warm in the microwave until heated through.
Can I Freeze This Lasagna?
Yes, you can freeze this lasagna before baking! Just assemble it in a suitable dish, cover tightly with plastic wrap and aluminum foil, and freeze for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to bake, thaw it overnight in the fridge before baking as directed.
