Bacon Cheeseburger Sheet Lasagna
Bacon cheeseburger sheet lasagna brings together two comforting favorites in one satisfying dish. It turns the classic flavors of a juicy bacon cheeseburger into a layered, oven-baked meal that feels familiar yet exciting. This casserole-style lasagna has become a favorite for busy families because it is simple to assemble, packed with flavor, and ideal for feeding a crowd. Each bite delivers a mix of smoky bacon, seasoned ground beef, creamy cheese, and tender pasta sheets, all baked together until hot and bubbly.
This recipe takes inspiration from casual backyard burgers, but transforms them into a hearty dinner. Instead of buns and toppings, everything is layered with lasagna noodles and a creamy cheese mixture that melts beautifully in the oven. The final result is rich, satisfying, and perfect for weeknights or gatherings where you want something comforting without spending all day in the kitchen.
Ingredients
1 lb ground beef
6 strips cooked bacon, crumbled
1 small onion, diced
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon paprika
Salt and pepper to taste
1 can diced tomatoes, drained
2 cups shredded cheddar or a cheddar blend
1 cup mozzarella
1 cup ricotta or cottage cheese
1 large egg
8–10 cooked lasagna sheets
1 cup beef broth or tomato sauce
Chopped pickles or green onions for topping (optional)
Instructions
Start by cooking the bacon until crisp. Once it is cooled, crumble it into small pieces and set aside. In a large skillet, brown the ground beef with the diced onion. As the beef cooks, break it up into small pieces so it layers easily later. When the beef is nearly done, add the garlic, salt, pepper, and paprika. Cook for another minute until the garlic becomes fragrant.
Drain any excess grease from the pan. Add the drained tomatoes and stir them into the beef mixture. The tomatoes keep the meat juicy and help create a cheeseburger-like flavor foundation. Let the mixture simmer for a few minutes so everything blends well. While the beef mixture cools slightly, prepare the cheese filling.
In a medium bowl, combine the ricotta or cottage cheese with the egg, half of the cheddar, and a small pinch of salt and pepper. Mix until smooth. This layer gives the lasagna its creamy center and keeps the texture tender.
Preheat the oven to a medium-high baking temperature and lightly grease a sheet pan or shallow casserole dish. Spread a thin layer of broth or sauce along the bottom. This prevents sticking and keeps the noodles soft as they bake.
Begin layering the lasagna. Place a layer of cooked noodles across the bottom of the sheet pan. Spread a portion of the beef mixture over the noodles, then spoon some of the cheese filling on top. Sprinkle a little mozzarella and cheddar before adding another layer of noodles. Continue repeating the layers until all ingredients are used. Finish with a generous topping of cheese and the crumbled bacon.
Cover the dish with foil and bake until the lasagna is heated through and the cheese is melted. Remove the foil during the last few minutes to allow the top layer to brown slightly. Once it is hot and bubbling around the edges, take it out of the oven and let it rest before slicing. This helps the layers set and makes serving easier.
Serving and Flavor Notes
Bacon cheeseburger sheet lasagna combines the backbone of a traditional lasagna with the playful flavor of a diner-style cheeseburger. The beef mixture brings savory richness, while the bacon adds smoky crispness. The cheeses melt together into a creamy balance that ties the dish together. Tomatoes add moisture and brightness, while the pasta keeps everything grounded and hearty.
Many people enjoy adding toppings to enhance the cheeseburger feeling. Chopped pickles sprinkled over the casserole after baking provide a sharp, tangy contrast. Green onions add color and freshness. A drizzle of ketchup or a swirl of burger sauce can also give it a fun, nostalgic twist. The recipe remains flexible, leaving room for creativity depending on your taste.
This dish is filling on its own but can be paired with a crisp side salad, roasted vegetables, or simple garlic bread. Because it is baked in a sheet pan, the slices hold together well and make serving large groups easy. It is also a great choice for potlucks, parties, or casual Sunday dinners where comfort food is the star.
Storage and Make-Ahead Tips
Bacon cheeseburger sheet lasagna stores well and tastes even better the next day as the flavors meld. Once cooled, refrigerate it tightly covered for up to three days. To reheat, warm individual slices in the oven or microwave. If feeding a crowd, reheat the entire pan slowly in the oven until hot. This dish also freezes nicely. Layer it uncooked, freeze it, and bake it later when needed, or freeze baked leftovers to enjoy on a busy night.
Customizing the Dish
This lasagna adapts easily to different preferences. You can use turkey or chicken instead of beef for a lighter version. Spicy versions can include jalapeños or pepper jack cheese. A richer sauce can be made by mixing a small amount of cream cheese into the beef mixture. Adding sautéed mushrooms or bell peppers offers more depth. The dish remains flexible because the base idea is simple: combine lasagna with the flavors of a bacon cheeseburger and let the oven do the work.
This recipe stands out because it brings comfort and creativity together in a single pan. It is familiar enough to please picky eaters but interesting enough to feel new. Whether served for a family meal or shared at an event, bacon cheeseburger sheet lasagna is a comforting dish that brings warmth and satisfaction every time.