Can I use ground turkey instead of beef?

Absolutely! Ground turkey makes a lighter version of this dish. Just add a little extra seasoning as turkey can be less flavorful than beef – perhaps a splash of Worcestershire sauce or some extra Italian herbs.

My bread is getting too brown but the cheese isn't fully melted. What should I do?

If this happens, cover the bread loosely with aluminum foil to prevent further browning while allowing the cheese to continue melting. The foil acts as a shield against direct heat while trapping warmth to melt the cheese.

Can I make this recipe gluten-free?

Yes! Simply substitute your favorite gluten-free baguette or Italian-style bread. The rest of the ingredients should be naturally gluten-free, but always check your marinara sauce and seasonings to be certain they don't contain hidden gluten.

How can I make this more like a traditional lasagna?

For an even more authentic lasagna flavor, add a layer of ricotta cheese mixed with an egg and some Italian herbs between the meat sauce and the shredded cheese. This mimics the creamy layer found in traditional lasagna.

Lasagna Garlic Bread Recipe

Name: Lasagna Garlic Bread Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 35 min
Cuisine: Italian-American
Ingredients: 1 loaf Italian bread; ½ cup (1 stick / 113 g) unsalted butter, softened; ½ cup (50 g) parmesan cheese, grated; 1 teaspoon garlic salt; ½ teaspoon Italian seasoning; ½ pound ground beef; 2 cups (514 g) marinara sauce, divided; 1 cup (113 g) mozzarella cheese, shredded, divided; 1 cup (113 g) sharp cheddar, shredded, divided; Parsley, chopped for garnish

This Lasagna Garlic Bread is what happens when two Italian classics collide to create something truly magical. Imagine the savory goodness of lasagna flavors spread over buttery, garlicky bread, then topped with melty cheese until golden and bubbly. It’s ready in just 35 minutes and perfect for those evenings when you want something deliciously satisfying without spending hours in the kitchen.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Best of Both Worlds: Combines the flavors of lasagna and garlic bread into one irresistible dish that satisfies all your comfort food cravings at once.
Crowd-Pleaser: Whether for game day, a casual get-together, or family dinner, this recipe is guaranteed to disappear fast and have everyone asking for more.
Quick and Simple: Despite its impressive appearance, this dish comes together in just 35 minutes with minimal prep and everyday ingredients.
Versatile: Works beautifully as an appetizer, side dish, or even a main course when paired with a salad.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Italian bread: Forms the foundation of our dish – look for a loaf with a slightly crispy exterior and soft interior for the perfect texture contrast.
Butter: Creates that rich, moist base for our garlic spread – make sure it’s softened so it blends easily with the other ingredients.
Parmesan cheese: Adds that nutty, salty depth to the garlic spread that takes it to the next level.
Garlic salt: Infuses the bread with that essential garlic flavor without the fuss of mincing fresh cloves.
Italian seasoning: Brings in all those classic Italian herb flavors in one convenient sprinkle.
Ground beef: Provides the hearty, meaty component of our lasagna topping – choose a lean variety for best results.
Marinara sauce: The tangy tomato base that ties all the lasagna flavors together – use your favorite jarred variety or homemade if you have it.
Mozzarella cheese: Delivers that quintessential stretchy, melty goodness that we all love about Italian dishes.
Sharp cheddar: Adds a flavor punch that complements the milder mozzarella perfectly.
Parsley: Provides a fresh pop of color and subtle herby note to finish the dish.

Note: You’ll find the complete list of ingredients, along with their exact measurements, in the printable recipe card at the bottom of this post.

Variations

Want to customize your Lasagna Garlic Bread? Here are some delicious options:

Vegetarian Version: Skip the ground beef and add sautéed mushrooms, bell peppers, and zucchini instead.
Spicy Kick: Add red pepper flakes to the meat mixture or slice some jalapeños on top for heat lovers.
Meat Lover’s Dream: Mix in some Italian sausage with the ground beef, or add pepperoni slices on top.
Alfredo Twist: Replace the marinara with alfredo sauce for a creamy “white lasagna” version.

How to Make Lasagna Garlic Bread

Step 1: Prepare the Bread

Preheat your oven to 350°F and line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Slice the Italian bread lengthwise into two halves and place them cut-side up on your prepared baking sheet.

Step 2: Make the Garlic Spread

In a small bowl, combine the softened butter, grated parmesan cheese, garlic salt, and Italian seasoning until well blended. Spread this mixture generously over both cut sides of the bread. The buttery layer will create a barrier that prevents the bread from getting soggy.

Step 3: Prepare the Meat Mixture

Brown the ground beef in a large skillet over medium heat for about 5-7 minutes, breaking it up with a spatula as it cooks. Drain any excess grease, then reduce the heat to low and stir in 1 cup of marinara sauce. Let it simmer for 2-3 minutes until heated through.

Step 4: Assemble

Divide the meat mixture evenly between the two bread halves, spreading it in an even layer. Top each half with mozzarella and cheddar cheese, making sure to distribute both cheeses evenly for maximum melt factor.

Step 5: Bake to Perfection

Bake for 12-14 minutes until the bread is toasted and the cheese is melted. For that extra golden brown cheese, broil for an additional 2-3 minutes, watching carefully to prevent burning.

Step 6: Finish and Serve

Sprinkle with fresh chopped parsley, slice into portions, and serve immediately with the remaining marinara sauce on the side for dipping.

Pro Tips for Making the Recipe

Don’t Skip the Butter Layer: The garlic butter spread creates a moisture barrier that keeps the bread from becoming soggy under the toppings.
Cheese Grating: For the best melt and flavor, grate your own cheese rather than using pre-shredded varieties which contain anti-caking agents.
Broiler Watch: When broiling to get that perfect golden cheese, stay close to your oven – the difference between perfectly browned and burnt can be just seconds!
Cutting Strategy: Let the bread cool for just a minute before cutting to allow the cheese to set slightly, then use a serrated knife for clean slices.

How to Serve

This Lasagna Garlic Bread works wonderfully in multiple settings:

As an Appetizer

Cut into smaller, bite-sized pieces and watch it disappear at your next gathering. Provide extra marinara in small dipping bowls for guests.

As a Main Dish

Pair with a fresh green salad dressed with a light vinaigrette to balance the richness of the bread. The contrast of the cool, crisp salad with the warm, cheesy bread is perfect.

For Game Day

Serve alongside other finger foods like chicken wings, mozzarella sticks, or a veggie platter for a crowd-pleasing spread.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you somehow end up with leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors actually meld beautifully overnight!

Freezing

You can freeze the assembled but unbaked Lasagna Garlic Bread for up to 1 month. Wrap tightly in plastic wrap, then foil. When ready to enjoy, thaw in the refrigerator overnight before baking (you may need to add a few extra minutes to the baking time).

Reheating

For the best texture when reheating, place in a 350°F oven for 5-7 minutes or until heated through. Avoid the microwave if possible, as it can make the bread soggy.

FAQs

Can I use ground turkey instead of beef?

Absolutely! Ground turkey makes a lighter version of this dish. Just add a little extra seasoning as turkey can be less flavorful than beef – perhaps a splash of Worcestershire sauce or some extra Italian herbs.
My bread is getting too brown but the cheese isn’t fully melted. What should I do?

If this happens, cover the bread loosely with aluminum foil to prevent further browning while allowing the cheese to continue melting. The foil acts as a shield against direct heat while trapping warmth to melt the cheese.
Can I make this recipe gluten-free?

Yes! Simply substitute your favorite gluten-free baguette or Italian-style bread. The rest of the ingredients should be naturally gluten-free, but always check your marinara sauce and seasonings to be certain they don’t contain hidden gluten.
How can I make this more like a traditional lasagna?

For an even more authentic lasagna flavor, add a layer of ricotta cheese mixed with an egg and some Italian herbs between the meat sauce and the shredded cheese. This mimics the creamy layer found in traditional lasagna.

Final Thoughts

This Lasagna Garlic Bread brings together two beloved comfort foods in one irresistible package. It’s the perfect solution when you’re craving lasagna but don’t have the time or energy for all those layers. With its crispy, buttery base, savory meat layer, and gooey cheese topping, it delivers all the satisfaction of a traditional lasagna in a fraction of the time. Whether you’re feeding a hungry family on a busy weeknight or looking for a crowd-pleasing appetizer, this recipe is sure to become a regular in your cooking rotation!