Lasagna Burger: Ultimate Cheesy Beef & Noodle Patty Recipe

Lasagna Burger – the very name conjures up an irresistible image, doesn’t it? Imagine, for a moment, the rich, savory layers of classic Italian lasagna, complete with seasoned ground meat, tangy tomato sauce, and a generous medley of creamy ricotta and mozzarella, all nestled within a perfectly grilled, juicy burger patty, then sandwiched between a soft bun. It’s a culinary audaciousness that promises to elevate your taste buds to an entirely new realm of comfort food.

Uniting Two Beloved Comfort Foods in One Delicious Bite

While the traditional burger has firmly held its place in American hearts, and lasagna remains an undisputed king of Italian-American dinner tables, this ingenious fusion brings the best of both worlds together. We’re talking about taking the familiar, hearty satisfaction of a beef patty and infusing it with the intricate, cheesy goodness of Italy’s most famous baked pasta dish. It’s not just a meal; it’s an experience, a playful nod to the versatility of flavors that we all adore and have come to expect from modern culinary creativity.

I find that what truly makes the Lasagna Burger so incredibly appealing is its ability to deliver complex flavors in a surprisingly approachable and convenient format. You get the robust umami of the beef, the bright acidity of the tomato, the creamy richness of the cheese, and the satisfying texture of pasta, all in a convenient, handheld package. It’s an innovative twist that satisfies cravings for both hearty American fare and soulful Italian comfort, making it an absolute must-try for any adventurous home cook looking for a truly memorable meal.

this Recipe

Ingredients:

• For the Lasagna Burger Patties:
  • 2 pounds ground beef, preferably 80/20 for maximum flavor and juiciness. I find this fat ratio cooks perfectly without drying out.
  • 1/2 cup Italian breadcrumbs. These add fantastic texture and help bind our patties.
  • 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese. This introduces that essential salty, umami kick right into the meat.
  • 1 large egg, lightly beaten. Our secret weapon for keeping everything together.
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced very finely. Fresh garlic is non-negotiable for that authentic Italian aroma.
  • 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped. Adds brightness and a hint of freshness.
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano. A classic Italian herb that sings in this dish.
  • 1/2 teaspoon dried basil. Complements the oregano beautifully.
  • 1 teaspoon salt, or to taste. Don’t be shy, seasoning is key!
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper, freshly ground. Always use fresh for the best flavor.
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil, for cooking the patties.
• For the Creamy Ricotta-Mozzarella Filling:
  • 15 ounces whole milk ricotta cheese. The creamier, the better!
  • 1/2 cup shredded low-moisture mozzarella cheese. Melts wonderfully and adds that signature stretch.
  • 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese. More cheesy goodness!
  • 1 large egg yolk. Helps to thicken the filling and prevent it from becoming watery.
  • 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, finely chopped. For color and herbaceous notes.
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt. Just a little bit to enhance the flavors.
  • Pinch of black pepper.
• For the Rich Marinara Sauce:
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil.
  • 1 small yellow onion, finely chopped. The aromatic base of our sauce.
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced. Again, fresh garlic makes all the difference.
  • 1 (28-ounce) can crushed tomatoes. High quality crushed tomatoes are the heart of any good marinara.
  • 1 (14.5-ounce) can diced tomatoes, undrained. Adds texture and body.
  • 1/2 cup water or vegetable broth. To thin the sauce slightly and allow it to simmer.
  • 2 tablespoons fresh basil, chopped, or 1 teaspoon dried basil. Fresh is best, but dried works in a pinch.
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano. Essential for that classic Italian profile.
  • 1/2 teaspoon sugar (optional, but I find it balances the acidity of the tomatoes beautifully).
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt, or to taste.
  • Pinch of red pepper flakes (optional, for a little warmth).
• For Assembling the Lasagna Burgers:
  • 6 sturdy burger buns, brioche or ciabatta work wonderfully. A good bun is crucial to hold all this deliciousness!
  • 1 cup shredded low-moisture mozzarella cheese, for topping. For that glorious melted cheese pull!
  • Fresh basil leaves, for garnish. Adds a lovely fresh finish.

Preparing the Lasagna Burger Patties:

1. First things first, let’s get our hands dirty and create the star of our “Lasagna Burger”: the patty! In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, Italian breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan cheese, beaten egg, minced garlic, chopped fresh parsley, dried oregano, dried basil, salt, and freshly ground black pepper.
2. Now, this is where the magic happens. Using your clean hands, gently but thoroughly mix all the ingredients together. You want everything to be well combined, but be careful not to overmix. Overmixing can lead to tough burgers, and we’re aiming for juicy, tender patties with incredible flavor. I usually mix until I can no longer see distinct streaks of ingredients, about 1-2 minutes of gentle kneading.
3. Once your meat mixture is ready, it’s time to form our patties. Divide the mixture into six equal portions. For each portion, flatten it into a disc about 1/2-inch thick and approximately 4-5 inches in diameter. I like to make a slight indentation in the center of each patty with my thumb. This little trick helps the patties cook more evenly and prevents them from puffing up in the middle, ensuring a flat surface for all our yummy toppings. The key is to make them slightly larger than your buns, as they will shrink a bit during cooking.
4. Place the formed patties on a plate or baking sheet lined with parchment paper. If you have the time, I highly recommend refrigerating these patties for at least 30 minutes, or even up to a few hours. This step really helps the patties hold their shape better during cooking, making them easier to handle and ensuring a more cohesive “Lasagna Burger” experience. While they’re chilling, we can move on to preparing our other delicious components.

Crafting the Creamy Ricotta-Mozzarella Filling:

1. While our burger patties are firming up in the fridge, let’s create the luscious, creamy filling that truly brings the “lasagna” element to life. In a medium-sized bowl, combine the whole milk ricotta cheese, shredded low-moisture mozzarella cheese, grated Parmesan cheese, egg yolk, finely chopped fresh parsley, salt, and a pinch of black pepper.
2. Using a spoon or a small whisk, mix all these ingredients together until they are well combined and smooth. You’re looking for a thick, spreadable consistency. Make sure there are no lumps of ricotta; a smooth filling is a happy filling! The egg yolk here acts as a binder, helping the cheese mixture set beautifully when it warms up on the burger.
3. Once mixed, cover the bowl and place it in the refrigerator until you’re ready to assemble your burgers. Keeping it chilled helps it maintain its consistency and makes it easier to work with later. You could even transfer this to a piping bag (without a tip, just snip the end) for easier, neater application later if you’re feeling fancy! This filling is going to melt into pure cheesy bliss on top of our savory patties.

Simmering the Rich Marinara Sauce:

1. A fantastic Lasagna Burger demands a stellar marinara sauce, and I promise you, making your own is surprisingly easy and infinitely more rewarding than a jarred version. Let’s start! Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a medium saucepan or Dutch oven over medium heat.
2. Add the finely chopped yellow onion to the hot oil. Sauté the onion, stirring occasionally, for about 5-7 minutes, until it becomes soft and translucent. Don’t rush this step! Soft, gently cooked onions are the foundation of a sweet, savory sauce.
3. Next, add the minced garlic to the saucepan. Sauté for another minute, stirring constantly, until the garlic is fragrant. Be very careful not to let the garlic brown or burn, as it can turn bitter very quickly. We want that sweet, aromatic garlic flavor to permeate our sauce.
4. Pour in the crushed tomatoes and diced tomatoes (undrained). Stir everything together. Add the water or vegetable broth, dried basil, dried oregano, sugar (if using), salt, and red pepper flakes (if using). Give it a good stir to combine all the ingredients.
5. Bring the sauce to a gentle simmer, then reduce the heat to low, cover the saucepan partially (leaving a small gap for steam to escape), and let it simmer for at least 30 minutes. Even better, let it go for 45-60 minutes. The longer it simmers, the more the flavors will meld and deepen, resulting in a richer, more complex sauce. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking. During this simmering time, your kitchen will start to smell absolutely divine!
6. Just before serving, stir in the fresh chopped basil (if using). Taste the sauce and adjust seasonings as needed. You might want a little more salt, pepper, or even a tiny bit more sugar to balance the acidity of the tomatoes. This marinara will be the perfect luscious, tangy complement to our meaty patties and creamy filling.

Assembling and Cooking Your Lasagna Burgers:

1. Okay, all our components are ready, and it’s time to bring these incredible Lasagna Burgers to life! Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet or on a griddle over medium-high heat. You want the oil to be shimmering, but not smoking.
2. Carefully place the chilled burger patties into the hot skillet. Cook for about 4-6 minutes per side, depending on your desired level of doneness and the thickness of your patties. You’re looking for a beautiful, deep brown crust on the outside. For a medium-cooked burger, an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C) is ideal. Use a meat thermometer to be precise!
3. Once you’ve flipped the patties and they’re cooking on the second side, spoon a generous dollop (about 2 tablespoons) of our creamy ricotta-mozzarella filling onto the top of each patty. Immediately follow this with a sprinkle of the extra shredded low-moisture mozzarella cheese over the ricotta mixture.
4. Reduce the heat to medium-low and cover the skillet with a lid. This will help the cheeses melt beautifully and create that wonderful gooey, stretchy topping we all love. Cook for another 2-3 minutes, or until the cheese is completely melted and bubbly.
5. While the cheese is melting, it’s the perfect time to prepare your buns. You can lightly toast them in a separate dry skillet, under the broiler, or on a grill until they are golden brown and slightly crispy. A toasted bun is essential; it provides structural integrity and a delightful textural contrast against the rich fillings.
6. To assemble, place the bottom half of a toasted bun on your serving plate. Carefully transfer a cheesy, cooked Lasagna Burger patty on top.
7. Next, spoon a generous amount of our rich, warm marinara sauce over the melted cheese and patty. Don’t be shy here; this is where the “lasagna” truly shines through!
8. Finally, crown your masterpiece with the top half of the toasted bun. If you like, you can add a few fresh basil leaves under the top bun for an extra burst of fresh flavor and color.
9. Serve immediately and prepare for a truly unique and incredibly satisfying burger experience!

Serving Suggestions and Tips:

These Lasagna Burgers are a meal in themselves, but they pair wonderfully with a few classic Italian-American side dishes. I often serve them with a simple, crisp green salad tossed in a light vinaigrette to cut through the richness. Garlic bread or even a small side of pasta with any leftover marinara sauce would also be fantastic. For something a little lighter, some roasted asparagus or zucchini would be a great complement.

Make-Ahead Magic: You can prepare the burger patties and the ricotta-mozzarella filling a day in advance. Store them separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator. The marinara sauce can also be made 2-3 days ahead of time and reheated gently on the stovetop. This makes dinner assembly on a busy weeknight a breeze!

Spice It Up: If you love a little heat, don’t hesitate to add extra red pepper flakes to both the burger patties and the marinara sauce. A pinch of cayenne pepper in the patty mixture could also add a pleasant kick.

Vegetarian Option: While this recipe focuses on beef, you could easily adapt the concept using a plant-based ground “meat” substitute for the patties. Just be sure to follow the package directions for cooking times, as they can vary.

Kids Love Them Too: This is a fantastic way to get kids excited about new flavors. They get the fun of a burger, combined with the familiar deliciousness of lasagna. Sometimes, I even sneak in a little finely grated carrot or zucchini into the marinara sauce for extra veggies!

I genuinely hope you enjoy making and devouring these unique “Lasagna Burgers” as much as I do. They’re truly a fun and flavorful twist on two beloved comfort foods, bringing together the best of both worlds in every single bite. Get ready to experience an Italian-American flavor explosion!

Conclusion:

And there you have it, my friends! We’ve reached the delicious conclusion of our culinary adventure, and I truly hope you’re feeling as excited as I am about this incredible creation. This isn’t just another recipe; it’s an experience, a delightful fusion that takes two beloved comfort foods and elevates them into something truly spectacular. I’m convinced that once you sink your teeth into this, you’ll understand why it’s destined to become a new favorite in your kitchen. It’s the kind of dish that sparks conversation, brings smiles, and satisfies those deep, primal cravings for something hearty and utterly delicious. Prepare yourselves for a gastronomic delight!

What makes this recipe a must-try, you ask? Well, it’s the ingenious way it marries the rich, savory depth of classic Italian lasagna with the irresistible, handheld convenience of a juicy American burger. Imagine layers of perfectly seasoned ground meat, luscious ricotta, bubbling mozzarella, and a vibrant marinara sauce, all nestled within a toasted bun that perfectly complements every bite. It’s comforting, it’s innovative, and it delivers a flavor punch that will make your taste buds sing. Every component works in harmony to create a symphony of textures and tastes, from the crisp edges of the patty to the gooey cheese pull, making each bite an absolute joy. This fusion is a game-changer!

Now, let’s talk about how to make your Lasagna Burger experience even more unforgettable. While it’s certainly a meal in itself, pairing it with the right accompaniments can truly elevate your dining experience. I love serving mine alongside a crisp, vibrant green salad with a tangy vinaigrette; the freshness provides a wonderful contrast to the richness of the burger. Another fantastic option is a side of crispy garlic bread or even some roasted asparagus spears, adding a touch of elegance without overwhelming the main event. For beverages, a medium-bodied red wine, like a Sangiovese or a Merlot, would complement the rich flavors beautifully, or if you prefer non-alcoholic, a sparkling Italian soda or a classic iced tea would be equally delightful. Think of these pairings as your secret weapon for an epic meal.

But the fun doesn’t stop there! This recipe is incredibly versatile, inviting you to put your own creative spin on it. Don’t hesitate to experiment with different cheeses; perhaps a smoked mozzarella for an extra layer of flavor, or a sharp provolone for a more assertive tang. You could also explore various meat blends—a mix of beef and Italian sausage would add an extra dimension of spice and flavor. For a vegetarian twist, consider using a hearty mushroom and lentil patty, ensuring you still get that satisfying texture and savory depth. Think about adding some caramelized onions or sautéed bell peppers directly into your “lasagna” patty mixture for an added burst of sweetness and texture. And if you’re feeling extra adventurous, a sprinkle of fresh basil or a dollop of pesto on top before serving can truly brighten the flavors. Your kitchen, your rules!

Consider the buns too! While a classic brioche or sesame seed bun works wonders, imagine serving this on a toasted ciabatta roll for an even more rustic Italian feel, or even a robust focaccia for an added herb dimension. For those looking for a lighter option, a lettuce wrap can transform this indulgent treat into a surprisingly fresh and equally delicious experience, highlighting the rich filling even more. The possibilities are truly endless, and that’s the beauty of cooking – it’s a journey of discovery and personal expression. This dish is robust enough to handle many modifications, so feel free to make it truly your own, tailoring it to your preferences and what you have on hand. Don’t be afraid to innovate!

So, my culinary comrades, what are you waiting for? I wholeheartedly encourage you to roll up your sleeves, gather your ingredients, and give this extraordinary recipe a try. I promise you, the effort will be richly rewarded with incredible flavors and the satisfaction of having created something truly unique and delicious. This isn’t just a meal; it’s a memorable moment waiting to happen in your kitchen. Imagine the smiles around your dinner table when you unveil these beauties! Prepare for rave reviews!

Once you’ve experienced the magic, please don’t keep it a secret! I would absolutely love to hear about your cooking journey and see your magnificent creations. Share your experiences, your clever modifications, and your serving suggestions in the comments below, or even better, tag me on social media with photos of your finished masterpiece. Let’s inspire each other and build a community around delicious food. Happy cooking, and I can’t wait to hear all about your amazing Lasagna Burger adventure!

Lasagna Burger

This lasagna burger happened when I was craving both my grandmother’s famous lasagna and a good grilled burger on the same Saturday afternoon, and instead of choosing between them, I decided to figure out how to combine them into one incredible creation. I’d been making regular burgers all summer, but they were starting to feel ordinary and predictable, especially when I was trying to think of something special to make for my husband’s birthday dinner that would be both his favorite comfort foods and something memorable. The lightbulb moment came when I realized I could layer all those classic lasagna flavors – ricotta cheese, marinara sauce, and melted mozzarella – right onto a perfectly seasoned burger patty to create this amazing fusion that delivers the best of both dishes. Now this has become our special occasion burger that makes any regular cookout feel like a celebration.

Prep Time
30 Minutes

Cook Time
20 Minutes

Total Time
30 Minutes

Servings
6 servings

Ingredients

• 2 pounds ground beef (80/20)
• 1/2 cup Italian breadcrumbs
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 large egg, lightly beaten
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1/2 teaspoon dried basil
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper, freshly ground
• 2 tablespoons olive oil (for cooking patties)
• 15 ounces whole milk ricotta cheese
• 1/2 cup shredded low-moisture mozzarella cheese
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 large egg yolk
• 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, finely chopped
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• Pinch of black pepper
• 1 tablespoon olive oil (for sauce)
• 1 small yellow onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 (28-ounce) can crushed tomatoes
• 1 (14.5-ounce) can diced tomatoes, undrained
• 1/2 cup water or vegetable broth
• 2 tablespoons fresh basil, chopped (or 1 teaspoon dried)
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1/2 teaspoon sugar (optional)
• 1/2 teaspoon salt (for sauce)
• Pinch of red pepper flakes (optional)
• 6 sturdy burger buns (brioche or ciabatta recommended)
• 1 cup shredded low-moisture mozzarella cheese (for topping)
• Fresh basil leaves (for garnish)

Instructions

1. Step 1
   In a large bowl, combine ground beef, Italian breadcrumbs, 1/4 cup grated Parmesan, beaten egg, minced garlic, 2 tbsp fresh parsley, 1 tsp dried oregano, 1/2 tsp dried basil, 1 tsp salt, and 1/2 tsp black pepper. Mix gently until just combined. Divide into 6 equal portions, flatten into 1/2-inch thick, 4-5 inch diameter patties, and make a slight thumb indentation in the center. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.
2. Step 2
   In a medium bowl, combine whole milk ricotta, 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella, 1/4 cup grated Parmesan, egg yolk, 1 tbsp fresh parsley, 1/4 tsp salt, and a pinch of black pepper. Mix until well combined and smooth. Cover and refrigerate.
3. Step 3
   Heat 1 tbsp olive oil in a saucepan over medium heat. Sauté chopped yellow onion for 5-7 minutes until soft. Add 2 cloves minced garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant. Stir in crushed tomatoes, diced tomatoes (undrained), 1/2 cup water or vegetable broth, 2 tbsp fresh basil (or 1 tsp dried), 1 tsp dried oregano, 1/2 tsp sugar (optional), 1/2 tsp salt, and a pinch of red pepper flakes (optional). Bring to a gentle simmer, then reduce heat to low, cover partially, and let simmer for 30-60 minutes, stirring occasionally. Stir in fresh chopped basil before serving, if using.
4. Step 4
   Heat 2 tbsp olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Place chilled patties in the skillet. Cook for 4-6 minutes per side, until a deep brown crust forms and internal temperature reaches 145°F (63°C) for medium doneness.
5. Step 5
   Once patties are flipped, spoon about 2 tbsp of the ricotta filling onto each, then sprinkle with the remaining 1 cup shredded mozzarella. Reduce heat to medium-low, cover, and cook for another 2-3 minutes, or until the cheese is completely melted and bubbly.
6. Step 6
   While cheese melts, lightly toast burger buns. Place a cooked, cheesy patty on the bottom bun. Spoon a generous amount of warm marinara sauce over the melted cheese and patty. Crown with fresh basil leaves (if desired) and the top bun. Serve immediately.

Important Information

Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)

It is important to consider this information as approximate and not to use it as definitive health advice.

Allergy Information

Please check ingredients for potential allergens and consult a health professional if in doubt.