Parmesan Garlic Bacon Lasagna

This Parmesan Garlic Bacon Cheeseburger Lasagna is a comforting meal that brings together crispy bacon, hearty ground beef, and a creamy parmesan béchamel to mimic the flavors of a classic cheeseburger in lasagna form. It’s perfect for dinner when you want something rich and satisfying that also feels a little special.

I first made this when I wanted a twist on traditional lasagna, and now it’s become a favorite that my family asks for whenever bacon is around

Ingredients

• Ground beef: eighty twenty gives the perfect balance of flavor and fat for a juicy meat sauce
• Onion and garlic: add rich sweetness and depth to the beef mixture
• Crispy cooked bacon: adds smoky saltiness that makes this dish truly indulgent
• Marinara sauce: serves as the tomato base that pulls all the meaty flavors together
• Italian seasoning and smoked paprika: bring warmth and a subtle smokiness that lift the sauce
• Butter and all purpose flour: form the roux which thickens the béchamel, creating a smooth sauce
• Whole milk: makes the béchamel rich and creamy
• Grated Parmesan cheese: infuses the béchamel with nutty flavor and adds cheesy creaminess
• Garlic powder: in the béchamel enhances the garlic notes without overpowering
• Lasagna noodles: cooked al dente ensure the perfect texture that holds up to the layers
• Mozzarella and cheddar: shredded cheeses melt beautifully for gooey and flavorful layers
• Extra Parmesan: on top makes for a golden crunchy crust once baked
• Fresh parsley: is optional but adds a fresh contrast and pretty garnish

Instructions

Sauté the Aromatics:

In a large skillet on medium heat cook the ground beef until it is nicely browned and no longer pink. Add diced onion and cook for about four to five minutes until softened and translucent. Stir in minced garlic and cook for an additional minute to bring out the aroma.

Simmer the Meat Sauce:

Add marinara sauce to the skillet followed by crumbled crispy bacon, Italian seasoning, smoked paprika, and salt and pepper to taste. Stir well to combine and let the sauce simmer gently for ten minutes to blend the flavors. Set aside when done.

Prepare the Béchamel Sauce:

In a medium saucepan melt unsalted butter over medium heat. Whisk in all purpose flour and cook for one to two minutes while whisking constantly to cook out the raw flour taste. Slowly pour in whole milk whisking continuously to avoid lumps. Cook until the sauce thickens which should take about five minutes. Remove from heat and stir in grated Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, and salt and pepper to taste.

Assemble the Lasagna:

Preheat the oven to 375 degrees Fahrenheit or 190 degrees Celsius. Spread a layer of meat sauce evenly on the bottom of a nine by thirteen inch baking dish. Place a layer of cooked lasagna noodles on top of the meat sauce. Spread a layer of béchamel sauce over the noodles followed by an even layer of shredded mozzarella and cheddar cheeses. Repeat this layering process ending with a top layer of cheeses. Finish by sprinkling the grated Parmesan cheese on top.

Bake the Lasagna:

Cover the baking dish with foil and bake in the preheated oven for thirty minutes. Remove the foil carefully and bake uncovered for an additional fifteen minutes or until the top is bubbling and golden brown.

Rest and Serve:

Let the lasagna rest for about ten minutes after baking. This makes slicing easier and allows the layers to set nicely so each piece holds together perfectly.

Parmesan cheese is my favorite ingredient in this recipe because it brings a sharp nuttiness that cuts through the richness. I remember the first time I served this at a family gathering everyone was amazed at the unexpected cheeseburger twist in lasagna form. It quickly became a dish I prepare when I want to impress without spending hours in the kitchen.

Storage Tips

Keep leftovers covered in the refrigerator for up to four days. Reheat in the oven or microwave until hot throughout. This lasagna also freezes well in airtight containers for up to three months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Ingredient Substitutions

You can swap ground beef for ground turkey or chicken for a lighter option. Substitute regular bacon with turkey bacon if preferred. For a dairy free version use plant based cheese and milk alternatives but expect a slight change in texture.

Serving Suggestions

Serve this lasagna with a simple green salad dressed in vinaigrette to balance the richness. Garlic bread or roasted vegetables also pair beautifully. A crisp white wine or a light beer complements the smoky bacon and creamy sauce.

Let the lasagna rest before slicing so the layers set. It’s a rich, comforting dish that’s great for sharing.

Common Questions About Recipes

→ What type of beef is best for this dish?

Use 80/20 ground beef for a good balance of flavor and moisture, ensuring the meat sauce stays juicy.

→ How is the parmesan garlic béchamel made?

It's created by whisking butter and flour to form a roux, then slowly adding milk and parmesan cheese with garlic powder for a creamy, flavorful sauce.

→ Can I prepare the lasagna ahead of time?

Yes, you can assemble it a day before baking. Keep it covered in the refrigerator and bake when ready for fresh results.

→ How should the noodles be cooked?

Boil lasagna noodles until al dente to maintain structure without becoming mushy after baking.

→ What’s the recommended baking process?

Bake covered with foil for 30 minutes, then uncovered for 15 minutes to achieve a bubbly, golden top layer.