Description
Epic Cheese Stack Lasagna
A celebration of indulgence! Gooey cheese, crispy bacon, and seasoned beef make this lasagna burger mashup unforgettable.
Ingredients
Ground beef (500g)
Lasagna sheets (4)
Cheddar cheese (200g)
Mozzarella (200g)
Bacon strips (5)
Onion (1, diced)
Barbecue sauce (½ cup)
Instructions
Sauté onion and beef.
Alternate layers of lasagna, cheese, beef, and bacon.
Bake at 180°C for 20 minutes.
Top with barbecue sauce and broil for a golden finish.
#EpicCheeseBurger
Step-by-Step Guide
Follow these detailed instructions for a perfect Epic Cheese Stack Lasagna every time.
- Prepare the Components: Cook the bacon strips in a skillet until crispy, then set aside. In the same pan, sauté the diced onion until translucent. Add the ground beef, season with salt and pepper, and cook until browned. Drain any excess fat.
- Pre-Cook Lasagna Sheets: Boil the lasagna sheets in salted water for about 5-6 minutes until al dente. Drain and lay them flat on a clean kitchen towel to prevent sticking.
- Build the Stack: On a parchment-lined baking sheet, start your stack. Place one lasagna sheet down. Top with a portion of the cooked beef and onion mixture, a sprinkle of both cheddar and mozzarella, and a piece of crumbled bacon. Repeat this layering process 3 more times, creating four distinct layers.
- Bake: Place the assembled stack in a preheated oven at 180°C (350°F) for 20 minutes, or until the cheese is fully melted and bubbling.
- Finish and Serve: Remove from the oven. Brush or drizzle the top generously with barbecue sauce. Switch the oven to broil/grill and return the stack for 2-3 minutes until the top is caramelized and golden. Let it rest for 5 minutes before slicing.
Serving Suggestions
This rich dish pairs beautifully with lighter sides. Serve with a crisp green salad tossed in a tangy vinaigrette to cut through the richness. For a heartier meal, add garlic bread or sweet potato fries. A cold beer or a full-bodied red wine like a Zinfandel complements the smoky barbecue and cheese flavors perfectly.
How-to Summary
In short: Brown beef with onions, layer with pre-cooked lasagna sheets, cheeses, and bacon. Bake at 180°C for 20 minutes, then top with BBQ sauce and broil for a golden finish.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this ahead of time? Yes, you can assemble the entire stack (without the final BBQ sauce) a day in advance. Cover and refrigerate. Add 5-10 minutes to the baking time when cooking from cold.
Can I use no-boil lasagna sheets? It’s not recommended for this stack method. The limited sauce and open structure require pre-cooked sheets to ensure the pasta is tender.
What’s a good substitute for barbecue sauce? A mix of ketchup, a touch of Worcestershire sauce, and a dash of smoked paprika makes a quick alternative. A spicy sriracha mayo would also work well.
How do I prevent it from falling apart? Letting it rest for 5-10 minutes after baking is crucial. Using a sharp serrated knife to slice through the crispy layers also helps maintain structure.
Can I add other ingredients? Absolutely! Sliced mushrooms, bell peppers, or jalapeños can be sautéed with the onions. For extra richness, a layer of ricotta mixed with an egg and herbs is a great addition.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Overcooking the Pasta: Boil lasagna sheets only until al dente. They will continue to cook in the oven, and mushy sheets will make the stack soggy.
- Skipping the Resting Time: Cutting in immediately will cause a cheese avalanche and a messy plate. Patience is key.
- Using Thick Bacon: Opt for regular-cut bacon. Thick-cut won’t crisp up as well in the layered format and can become chewy.
- Broiling Unattended: The barbecue sauce can burn quickly under the broiler. Watch it closely for just 2-3 minutes.
Conclusion
The Epic Cheese Stack Lasagna is the ultimate comfort food fusion, delivering all the satisfaction of a burger and lasagna in one stunning dish. By following this guide and avoiding common pitfalls, you’ll create a show-stopping meal that’s surprisingly simple to execute. Its layers of flavor and texture are guaranteed to make it a memorable centerpiece for any casual gathering or indulgent family dinner.