This fun twist on lasagna combines layers of pasta, juicy beef, crispy bacon, and a zesty parmesan garlic sauce. It’s a hearty meal that everyone will love!
I mean, who can say no to bacon and cheese all stacked up? I usually serve it with a side salad to feel a little healthy… at least for a moment! 😄
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Lasagna Noodles: Traditional lasagna noodles work best, but you can use no-boil noodles to save some time. Just remember, no-boil insists on more sauce to cook properly.
Ground Beef: While I love using ground beef for its rich flavor, ground turkey or chicken is a leaner option. You can even try a plant-based ground meat for a vegetarian twist!
Bacon: Bacon adds a smoky flavor, but if you’re looking for a healthier choice, turkey bacon or even pancetta can give a tasty alternative. Just cook until crispy to ensure good texture.
Cheeses: Ricotta cheese brings creaminess to the dish. If you’re vegan, you can use tofu blended with nutritional yeast. For mozzarella and cheddar, you can substitute with dairy-free cheeses if preferred.
Marinara Sauce: Feel free to use store-bought for convenience! Homemade sauce is great too, especially if you like it spicy: just add a pinch of red pepper flakes.
How Can I Ensure My Lasagna Stays Layered and Doesn’t Fall Apart?
The key to building a perfect lasagna is in the layering method. Start with a sturdy base of meat sauce, which not only keeps everything in place but also adds flavor. Here’s how to layer effectively:
- Layer some meat sauce on the bottom of your dish. This prevents noodles from sticking.
- Add noodles and apply filling generously, ensuring to cover the noodles well. This keeps them moist.
- Alternate layers with your meat sauce, ricotta mixture, and cheese, pressing down gently to compact without losing structure.
Finally, let it cool before slicing. This will help the layers set and keep your portions neat. Enjoy your lasagna with pride!
How to Make Parmesan Garlic Bacon Cheeseburger Lasagna?
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Lasagna:
- 12 lasagna noodles
- 1 lb ground beef
- 8 oz bacon, chopped
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 cups marinara sauce
- 2 cups ricotta cheese
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious lasagna takes about 45 minutes to prepare and 1 hour to bake. So, you’ll need approximately 1 hour and 45 minutes total, including cozy downtime to let it cool before serving. Perfect for an inviting family dinner!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat and Cook the Noodles:
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). While that’s heating up, cook the lasagna noodles according to the package instructions. Once they’re done, drain them well and set them aside while you prepare the yummy filling.
2. Prepare the Bacon and Vegetables:
Grab a large skillet and cook the chopped bacon over medium heat until it’s crispy. Once cooked, remove the bacon and let it drain on some paper towels, but keep the tasty drippings in the skillet. Next, add the diced onion to the skillet and cook until it turns translucent. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute until it makes your kitchen smell amazing!
3. Cook the Ground Beef:
Add the ground beef to the same skillet, breaking it up with a spoon. Cook until it’s nicely browned and cooked all the way through. Season this mixture with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. Then, stir in the marinara sauce and let it simmer for about 5 minutes. Remove the skillet from heat when done.
4. Mix the Cheese Filling:
In a separate bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, half of the shredded mozzarella, and half of the grated Parmesan cheese. Mix it all together until it’s well combined. Don’t forget to add a sprinkle of salt and pepper for extra flavor!
5. Layer the Lasagna:
Now, it’s time to start layering! In a 9×13 inch baking dish, spread a layer of your meat sauce at the bottom. Lay down 4 lasagna noodles over the sauce, then spread half of the ricotta mixture over these noodles. Add half of the crispy bacon, followed by a layer of shredded cheddar cheese. Top it all off with another layer of meat sauce.
6. Continue Layering:
Repeat the layers: add more noodles, then the ricotta mixture, bacon, cheddar cheese, and another layer of that tasty meat sauce. Finish off by placing the remaining noodles on top. Cover it all with the rest of the meat sauce and sprinkle the remaining mozzarella and Parmesan cheeses on top for that cheesy goodness!
7. Baking the Lasagna:
Now, cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and pop it in the preheated oven. Bake for 25-30 minutes. After that, carefully remove the foil and bake for an additional 15-20 minutes, until the cheese is all bubbly and golden brown.
8. Serving the Lasagna:
Once done, take the lasagna out of the oven and let it cool for about 10 minutes before slicing. This helps it hold its shape better! Garnish with fresh parsley before serving, and enjoy this delightful meal with family and friends!
Can I Use Different Types of Cheese?
Absolutely! While the combination of ricotta, mozzarella, cheddar, and Parmesan creates a delicious balance, you can experiment with other cheeses. Try using cream cheese in place of ricotta for a creamier texture, or swap out cheddar for provolone or gouda for a richer flavor. Just keep in mind that each cheese has its own melting properties!
How to Make This Dish Gluten-Free?
No problem! Simply substitute regular lasagna noodles with gluten-free lasagna noodles. They cook similarly, so just follow the package instructions for optimal results. Be sure to check your sauce and cheese for any hidden gluten ingredients as well!
Can I Prepare This Lasagna in Advance?
Yes, you can assemble the lasagna ahead of time! Prepare it up to the point of baking, cover it tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. When ready to bake, remove the cover and cook it as instructed, adding a few extra minutes if it’s coming straight from the fridge.
How to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. You can reheat individual portions in the microwave or cover the entire dish with foil and warm it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through. Enjoy it again just as delicious!
