If you love bold flavors and crave the ultimate comfort food, then this Parmesan Garlic Bacon Cheeseburger Lasagna is for you! Imagine layers of tender lasagna noodles, a rich and savory Parmesan garlic sauce, smoky bacon, juicy ground beef, and a blend of gooey cheeses all baked to golden perfection. It’s a dish that brings together the best of burgers and lasagna into one irresistible meal.
Whether you’re cooking for a cozy family dinner, meal prepping for the week, or impressing guests at a potluck, this recipe is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. Plus, it’s easy to make and offers plenty of room for customization to suit different tastes and dietary needs.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Perfect fusion of flavors – A mix of cheeseburger goodness and classic lasagna textures in every bite.
- Rich and creamy sauce – The Parmesan garlic sauce adds a luxurious, velvety texture that sets this dish apart.
- Great for meal prep – Make ahead and reheat throughout the week for a hassle-free dinner.
- Family-friendly – Even picky eaters will love this cheesy, meaty masterpiece.
Ingredients
For the Meat Layer:
- 1 lb (450 g) ground beef
- 6 slices cooked bacon, crumbled
- 1 small onion, finely diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
- Salt and pepper, to taste
For the Parmesan Garlic Sauce:
- 4 tablespoons butter
- 4 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 2 cups (480 ml) whole milk
- 1 cup (100 g) grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Additional Layers:
- 12 lasagna noodles, cooked according to package instructions
- 2 cups (200 g) shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1 cup (100 g) shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup (50 g) ricotta cheese (optional)
- 2 tablespoons parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Kitchen Equipment Needed
- Large skillet
- Medium saucepan
- Whisk
- 9×13-inch baking dish
- Aluminum foil
- Mixing bowls
- Wooden spoon
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Prepare the Meat Layer
- Heat a large skillet over medium heat and cook the ground beef until browned. Drain excess fat.
- Add the diced onion, minced garlic, Italian seasoning, and smoked paprika. Cook until the onion softens.
- Stir in crumbled bacon, season with salt and pepper, and set aside.
2. Make the Parmesan Garlic Sauce
- In a medium saucepan, melt butter over medium heat.
- Stir in flour and cook for 1-2 minutes to form a roux.
- Gradually whisk in milk, stirring continuously until thickened.
- Remove from heat and mix in Parmesan cheese and garlic powder. Season with salt and pepper.
3. Assemble the Lasagna
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
- Spread a thin layer of Parmesan garlic sauce at the bottom of the dish.
- Layer 3 lasagna noodles over the sauce, followed by a third of the meat mixture, a drizzle of Parmesan garlic sauce, and a sprinkle of mozzarella and cheddar cheese.
- Repeat until all ingredients are used, finishing with a generous layer of cheese on top.
4. Bake the Lasagna
- Cover with foil and bake for 25 minutes.
- Remove the foil and bake for another 10-15 minutes until the cheese is golden and bubbly.
- Let cool for 10 minutes before slicing.
- Garnish with chopped parsley and serve warm.
Storage and Reheating Tips
Refrigeration:
Store leftover lasagna in an airtight container for up to 4 days in the refrigerator.
Freezing:
- Allow lasagna to cool completely before freezing.
- Wrap tightly in plastic wrap and foil.
- Store for up to 3 months.
Reheating:
- Microwave: Heat individual slices for 1-2 minutes.
- Oven: Cover with foil and bake at 350°F (175°C) for 20-25 minutes until heated through.
Variations and Substitutions
- Make it low-carb – Swap lasagna noodles for thin zucchini or eggplant slices.
- Spicy twist – Add red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños to the meat mixture.
- Different cheeses – Experiment with gouda, Swiss, or provolone for a unique flavor.
- Turkey or chicken – Substitute ground turkey or chicken for a leaner version.
Best Side Dishes & Drink Pairings
- Garlic bread – Because more garlic is always a good idea!
- Caesar salad – A crisp, refreshing contrast to the richness of the lasagna.
- Roasted vegetables – Adds color and a hint of sweetness to balance flavors.
- Drink Pairings: A full-bodied red wine like Cabernet Sauvignon or a classic root beer for a fun, kid-friendly option.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I make this lasagna ahead of time?
A: Yes! Assemble it up to 24 hours in advance, store it in the fridge, and bake when ready.
Q: What’s the best way to prevent watery lasagna?
A: Make sure to drain the beef well and let the lasagna rest for 10 minutes before slicing.
Q: Can I use store-bought Alfredo sauce instead of making my own?
A: Absolutely! If you’re short on time, a high-quality Alfredo sauce works as a great shortcut.
Q: How do I make this dish vegetarian?
A: Swap the ground beef and bacon for sautéed mushrooms, lentils, or a plant-based meat alternative.
Final Thoughts
This Parmesan Garlic Bacon Cheeseburger Lasagna is pure comfort food heaven. Whether you’re cooking for family, friends, or just treating yourself, this dish is a guaranteed hit! If you give this recipe a try, be sure to share it with friends and subscribe to our blog for more mouthwatering recipes. Enjoy!
Happy Cooking! 🍽️
