Winter evenings call for something extra cozy and filling. You want a meal that feels like a big, warm hug. This cheeseburger lasagna is exactly what your family needs tonight. It combines two favorites into one spectacular dish.
Looking for a dish that wows your guests without stressing you out? This recipe delivers high protein and massive flavor in every bite. It is the perfect way to warm up your kitchen. Let’s get cooking this delicious meal together.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This recipe is a total winner for busy families. It is packed with high-protein beef and smoky bacon. The garlic parmesan sauce adds a touch of creamy luxury. You get the comfort of a burger in a hearty bake. It is a kid-approved masterpiece that fills everyone up.
Your house will smell absolutely amazing while it bakes. This dish is perfect for a snowy winter night. It uses simple ingredients that you likely already have. You will love how satisfying and filling this meal feels. It is pure comfort food at its very best.
Simple Method
Making this dish is surprisingly simple for any beginner. You will start by browning the beef and whisking a creamy sauce. Layering the ingredients is just like building a traditional lasagna. The garlic bechamel makes it feel very special. You can master this recipe on your first try.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These simple ingredients create a rich and savory flavor profile. Most of these are pantry staples you can find easily.
- 12 lasagna noodles, cooked al dente
- 2 lbs ground beef (90/10)
- 1 lb thick-cut bacon, diced and cooked crisp
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 cups ricotta cheese
- 1 cup grated parmesan cheese
- 4 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 4 cups whole milk
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
Step-by-Step Directions
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Brown ground beef in a large skillet until fully cooked, drain excess fat, and set aside.
- In a saucepan, melt butter over medium heat and whisk in flour to create a roux; cook for 2 minutes.
- Slowly whisk in milk and minced garlic; simmer until thickened, then stir in 1/2 cup parmesan cheese.
- Spread a thin layer of sauce in the bottom of a 9×13 inch baking dish.
- Layer three lasagna noodles over the sauce.
- Add 1/3 of the ground beef, 1/4 of the bacon, 1/3 of the ricotta, and 1/4 of the mozzarella.
- Repeat layering of noodles, sauce, beef, bacon, ricotta, and mozzarella twice more.
- Top with final layer of noodles, remaining sauce, remaining mozzarella, and remaining parmesan and bacon.
- Cover with foil and bake for 25 minutes.
- Remove foil and bake for an additional 15 to 20 minutes until cheese is golden and bubbling.
- Allow to rest for 15 minutes before slicing.
Best Ways to Enjoy It
Serve this dish warm and bubbly from the oven. A crisp green salad balances the richness perfectly. You could also add a side of steamed broccoli. This is the ultimate comfort food for a cold night. Set the table and enjoy this with your family.
How to Store Leftovers
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge. It will stay fresh for up to four days. This lasagna actually tastes even better the next day. You can also freeze individual portions for quick lunches. Reheat in the oven to keep the cheese perfectly melty and delicious.
Tips for Best Results
- Do not skip the resting time before you slice it.
- Whisk the milk slowly into the roux to avoid lumps.
- Use thick-cut bacon for the best smoky flavor profile.
- Drain the ground beef well so the lasagna isn’t greasy.
- Make the garlic sauce ahead of time to save minutes.
- Use a glass baking dish to see those beautiful layers.
- Garnish with fresh parsley for a bright pop of color.
Ways to Switch It Up
- Try ground turkey for a slightly lighter protein option.
- Add diced pickles on top for a true burger feel.
- Swap mozzarella for sharp cheddar for extra tang and flavor.
- Stir in some fresh spinach for a boost of greens.
Common Questions
Can I use no-boil noodles?
Yes, you can use no-boil noodles for this recipe. Just make sure to add a half cup more milk. The extra liquid helps the noodles soften while baking. This is a great time-saving shortcut for busy nights.
Is this recipe freezer friendly?
Absolutely, this lasagna freezes and thaws beautifully for later. Wrap it tightly in foil and plastic wrap before freezing. Thaw it in the fridge overnight before you reheat it. It makes meal prep feel so much easier.
I hope this dish brings warmth to your kitchen. It is a favorite in my home during the winter. Your family will surely ask for seconds tonight!
— Katie Wood
Ingredients
- 12 lasagna noodles , cooked al dente
- 2 lbs ground beef (90/10)
- 1 lb thick -cut bacon, diced and cooked crisp
- 4 cloves garlic , minced
- 2 cups ricotta cheese
- 1 cup grated parmesan cheese
- 4 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter
- 1/2 cup all -purpose flour
- 4 cups whole milk
- 1 tsp sal t
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Brown ground beef in a large skillet until fully cooked, drain excess fat, and set aside.
- In a saucepan, melt butter over medium heat and whisk in flour to create a roux; cook for 2 minutes.
- Slowly whisk in milk and minced garlic; simmer until thickened, then stir in 1/2 cup parmesan cheese.
- Spread a thin layer of sauce in the bottom of a 9x13 inch baking dish.
- Layer three lasagna noodles over the sauce.
- Add 1/3 of the ground beef, 1/4 of the bacon, 1/3 of the ricotta, and 1/4 of the mozzarella.
- Repeat layering of noodles, sauce, beef, bacon, ricotta, and mozzarella twice more.
- Top with final layer of noodles, remaining sauce, remaining mozzarella, and remaining parmesan and bacon.
- Cover with foil and bake for 25 minutes.
- Remove foil and bake for an additional 15 to 20 minutes until cheese is golden and bubbling.
- Allow to rest for 15 minutes before slicing.
