This fun twist on lasagna combines layers of pasta, cheesy goodness, and crispy bacon! The garlic and Parmesan add a tasty kick that makes it a favorite for many.
I’ve got to say, there’s nothing quite like the smell of bacon sizzling while you prepare this dish! Perfect for a cozy family dinner, it’s a hit every time.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Lasagna Noodles: Traditional lasagna noodles work great, but you can use no-boil noodles for quicker prep. If gluten-free is your need, there are alternatives out there too!
Ground Beef: I like using beef for its rich flavor, but feel free to swap it for ground turkey or chicken for a lighter option. You could even try plant-based ground meat for a vegetarian twist!
Bacon: Cooked bacon gives that perfect crunch. If you’re cutting down on meat, turkey bacon is a good alternative. You can also leave it out entirely to make it vegetarian.
Cheeses: I use ricotta for creaminess and flavor, but cottage cheese is a lighter substitute. As for the mozzarella and cheddar, feel free to mix in your favorite cheeses like Monterey Jack or Gouda!
How Do I Perfectly Layer My Lasagna?
Layering lasagna is key to getting that delicious mix of flavors. Start with sauce to prevent sticking. Here’s the best way to layer:
- Spread a thin layer of meat sauce on the bottom of your dish.
- Lay down your first 3 noodles, ensuring they don’t overlap.
- Add half of the ricotta mixture, spreading it evenly.
- Top with a sprinkle of mozzarella and cheddar, followed by some bacon.
- Repeat the process until you’re out of ingredients, finishing with sauce on top.
In the final layer, go heavy on the cheese for that golden finish! This technique ensures every slice holds together beautifully. Enjoy your cooking!
Easy Parmesan Garlic Bacon Cheeseburger Lasagna
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Lasagna:
- 9 lasagna noodles
- 1 lb ground beef
- 6 slices bacon, cooked and crumbled
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cups marinara sauce (or your favorite pasta sauce)
For the Cheese Mixture:
- 1 ½ cups ricotta cheese
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese, divided
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
For Cooking:
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp dried Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley or basil, chopped (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious lasagna will take about 20 minutes for preparation and about 40 minutes for cooking, plus a 10-minute resting time. In total, you should set aside about 1 hour and 10 minutes to create this mouthwatering meal!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Noodles:
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). Cook the lasagna noodles according to the package instructions until they are al dente. Once cooked, drain the noodles and set them aside.
2. Cook the Beef Mixture:
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and chopped onion, cooking them until they’re fragrant and translucent, which should take about 2-3 minutes. Next, add the ground beef, using a spatula to break it apart. Cook until it’s browned and fully cooked, around 6-8 minutes. Drain any excess fat.
3. Add the Sauce:
Once the beef is cooked, stir in the marinara sauce, dried Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Let it simmer for about 5 minutes to let the flavors meld together.
4. Mix the Cheeses:
In a mixing bowl, combine the ricotta cheese with half of the grated Parmesan cheese. Season this mixture with a pinch of salt and pepper, blending it all together.
5. Assemble the Lasagna:
In a 9×13 inch baking dish, spread a thin layer of the meat sauce on the bottom. Layer 3 lasagna noodles on top of this sauce. Spread half of the ricotta mixture over the noodles, followed by 1/3 of the shredded mozzarella and cheddar cheese. Then, sprinkle half of the crumbled bacon over this. Repeat the layers with another round of meat sauce, noodles, ricotta, mozzarella, cheddar, and bacon.
6. Final Layer & Bake:
Finish with a final layer of noodles, topped with the remaining meat sauce. Complete the assembly by sprinkling the rest of the mozzarella, cheddar, and Parmesan cheese on top. Cover with foil and bake in the preheated oven for 25 minutes.
7. Finish & Serve:
After 25 minutes, remove the foil and bake for an additional 15 minutes, until the cheese is bubbly and golden. Once cooked, allow the lasagna to rest for about 10 minutes before slicing. Garnish with fresh parsley or basil before serving hot.
Enjoy your cheesy, garlicky, bacon-packed lasagna!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I Use Whole Wheat or Gluten-Free Lasagna Noodles?
Absolutely! Whole wheat noodles add a nutty flavor and are a healthier option. For gluten-free needs, many brands offer gluten-free lasagna sheets that work just as well. Just make sure to follow the cooking instructions on the package!
Can I Prep This Recipe Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can! You can assemble the lasagna up to a day in advance and keep it covered in the refrigerator until you’re ready to bake. If you do this, add about 10-15 minutes to the baking time, as it will be chilled when you start baking.
How Can I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover lasagna in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, simply slice and warm it in the microwave or place it back in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through.
Can I Add Other Ingredients?
Definitely! Feel free to add in vegetables like spinach, mushrooms, or bell peppers for added nutrition. Just sauté them alongside the onions and garlic at the beginning to enhance their flavors before adding the beef.
