Description
The Turkey Bacon Lasagna Burger is a bold fusion of two beloved comfort foods: the hearty layers of a lasagna combined with the juicy satisfaction of a burger. Featuring lean ground turkey, smoky turkey bacon, layers of marinara sauce, and a blend of gooey cheeses, this burger delivers all the indulgence of lasagna with a lighter, healthier twist. This unique dish brings together Italian and American flavors in a way that’s sure to satisfy both burger and lasagna lovers alike. Perfect for family dinners or weekend gatherings, this recipe offers a gourmet feel with surprisingly simple preparation steps.
Ingredients
Scale
Beef Patties:
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Lasagna Layers:
- 4 lasagna noodles, cooked
- 1 cup ricotta cheese
- 1 egg
- 1 cup marinara sauce
- 1 ½ cups mozzarella cheese, shredded
Additional Ingredients:
- 8 slices of bacon, cooked until crispy
- 4 hamburger buns
- Olive oil for frying
Instructions
- Cook the Bacon: In a skillet over medium heat, cook the bacon until crispy. Set aside on paper towels to drain.
- Prepare the Beef Patties: In a large bowl, mix the ground beef with Italian seasoning, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Form the mixture into 4 equal-sized patties.
- Cook the Patties: In the same skillet, cook the beef patties over medium-high heat for 4-5 minutes per side, or until your desired level of doneness. Remove from heat and set aside.
- Prepare the Ricotta Mixture: In a small bowl, combine the ricotta cheese with the egg and a pinch of salt until smooth.
- Assemble the Lasagna Layers: Place a cooked lasagna noodle on a clean surface. Spread a layer of ricotta mixture on top, followed by a spoonful of marinara sauce and a sprinkle of mozzarella. Place another lasagna noodle on top to form a layered square. Repeat to create 4 lasagna layers.
- Build the Burger: On the bottom half of each bun, place a beef patty. Add the lasagna square, top with crispy bacon, and then cover with the top bun.
- Toast the Buns: Lightly brush the buns with olive oil and toast them in a skillet or oven until golden brown.
Notes
- Healthier Options:
If you’re looking for a lighter version, swap out the lasagna noodles for zucchini or eggplant slices, or use gluten-free noodles if needed. Opt for low-fat or vegan cheeses to further reduce calories and fat content. - Vegan or Vegetarian Adaptations:
To make this burger vegetarian or vegan, replace the ground turkey patty with a plant-based option, like a black bean burger or a soy-based patty. Use dairy-free cheese alternatives and skip the turkey bacon in favor of a plant-based version. - Cooking Tips:
To avoid a dry turkey patty, season generously and avoid overcooking. Ground turkey tends to dry out faster than beef, so keeping an eye on cooking time is key. For even more flavor, you can mix in finely chopped onions or herbs like basil into the ground turkey before forming the patties. - Serving Suggestions:
Pair this burger with sweet potato fries or a simple Caesar salad to complement the rich flavors of the marinara sauce and cheese. For added Italian flair, serve garlic bread on the side. - Presentation:
Stack the burger so that each layer—turkey patty, lasagna noodle, turkey bacon, cheese, and marinara—is visible. Garnish with fresh basil leaves or a sprinkle of parmesan for an extra touch of color and flavor.