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If you’ve ever found yourself craving both a juicy burger and a cheesy lasagna in the same meal this recipe exists just for that very craving. The Bacon Lasagna Burger is my family’s favorite when everyone wants something hearty and irresistible but no one can agree on which comfort food to make. It is a real showstopper for weeknight treats or game-day gatherings and I make it every time I want both big flavors and a little bit of fun.
I first served Bacon Lasagna Burgers as a surprise for a family movie night and everyone cleaned their plates faster than ever. There was not a quiet moment at the table except for the happy munching.
Ingredients
- Ground beef: quality is key so choose 80 percent lean for juicy flavorful patties
- Garlic powder and onion powder: they build depth and keep the beef savory
- Sea salt and black pepper: always freshly ground if possible
- Seasoned meat sauce: homemade or good jarred sauce makes all the difference in flavor
- Ricotta-style cheese: creamy and mild go for whole milk for richness if available
- Shredded mozzarella-style cheese: look for low-moisture mozzarella for ideal melt
- Bacon slices: cooked until shatteringly crisp for smoky crunch
- Burger buns: sturdy bakery-style buns or brioche for a soft yet strong base
- Butter or oil: prevents sticking and amps up flavor
- Lettuce tomato or extra sauce: optional but adds freshness and extra zing
Instructions
- Prepare the Patties:
- In a mixing bowl combine ground beef garlic powder onion powder salt and black pepper. Use your hands to mix gently until just combined. Form into four thick patties without overworking the meat which keeps them juicy.
- Cook the Patties:
- Heat a skillet or grill over medium-high with a little butter or oil. Cook each patty for about five minutes on each side or until the center reaches your preferred doneness. Let patties rest a couple of minutes off the heat to keep them moist.
- Warm the Lasagna Layer:
- Heat seasoned meat sauce in a saucepan over low heat until just simmering. In a small bowl mix ricotta-style cheese with half the shredded mozzarella-style cheese until smooth and creamy.
- Assemble the Layers:
- Place each cooked burger patty on the bottom half of a toasted bun. Spoon a generous scoop of warm meat sauce on top then spread over a thick layer of the ricotta mixture. Lay on strips of crispy bacon plus another spoonful of hot meat sauce.
- Melt and Serve:
- Sprinkle remaining mozzarella-style cheese over each stacked burger. Cover loosely with a lid or foil and let sit over low heat until the cheese softens and melts over the burger. Top each with the upper half of the toasted bun and serve while hot and gooey.
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My favorite part is honestly the bacon. I have a memory of my youngest sneaking crispy bacon strips right off the prep tray while I was assembling everything. Now I make extra bacon just for little hands that cannot wait.
Storage Tips
Keep leftover components separate in airtight containers for up to three days in the fridge. Warm patties and sauces gently on the stove or in the microwave before reassembling. Only put together burgers right before serving so nothing gets soggy.
Ingredient Substitutions
Ground turkey or chicken can step in for beef for a lighter version. Swap in provolone or Italian blend cheese to match your taste or what you have available. Brioche buns bring a touch of sweetness or use gluten-free buns for a gluten-free meal.
Serving Suggestions
These burgers are a meal on their own but I love pairing them with garlic-parmesan fries or a fresh crunchy green salad. Sometimes I add a side of roasted vegetables for balance or bowl of creamy soup for the coziest kind of comfort meal.
A Little History
Inspired by both classic American burgers and Italian-American lasagna The Bacon Lasagna Burger celebrates the best of old-school diners and big family Italian suppers. It is all about bringing people together for a meal that feels a bit celebratory but always easygoing.
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Nothing brings my household to the table faster than the smell of this burger sizzling in the pan. Even my pickiest eater requests Bacon Lasagna Burger night and it has become a fun new tradition for us. Try it your way and you will see why everyone wants a second helping.
Frequently Asked Questions
- → Can I prepare the layers in advance?
Yes, you can prepare the patties and lasagna-style components ahead of time and assemble when ready to eat.
- → What types of cheese can I use?
Ricotta and mozzarella work well, but you can swap in provolone or an Italian blend for a twist on flavor and texture.
- → How do I keep the burger juicy?
Handle the meat gently when forming patties and avoid overcooking. Letting the patties rest after cooking also helps retain juices.
- → Is this burger suitable for grilling?
Absolutely! Cook the patties on a grill, then layer the other ingredients and melt the cheese over low heat.
- → Can I make it spicier?
Yes, add red pepper flakes to the sauce or choose a spicy topping to enhance the heat as you like.
- → What are good sides for this burger?
Crispy fries, sweet potato fries, a green salad, or roasted vegetables all pair well with these bold flavors.