This fun twist on lasagna layers creamy cheese, crispy bacon, and a rich garlic Parmesan sauce. It’s like a cheeseburger and lasagna had a delicious baby!
Who wouldn’t love that bubbling cheese on top? I mean, it’s impossible to resist a cheesy bite! Serve with a salad to feel a bit fancy. 🍽️
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Lasagna Noodles: Standard lasagna noodles are perfect here. If you’re avoiding gluten, look for gluten-free noodles, or even zucchini slices for a low-carb option!
Ground Beef: Ground beef brings rich flavor and texture. You could use ground turkey or chicken for a lighter meal, or even lentils for a vegetarian version!
Bacon: The crispy bacon adds a nice smoky flavor. Turkey bacon is a great lean alternative, or you could leave it out entirely for a vegetarian twist.
Cheese: Ricotta gives creaminess, while mozzarella and cheddar provide meltiness. For a different flavor, try goat cheese or cottage cheese instead of ricotta.
Tomato Sauce: A simple store-bought tomato sauce works great. You could substitute with marinara or homemade sauce if you’re feeling adventurous!
How Can I Make Sure My Lasagna Layers Stay Perfect?
Layering your lasagna can be tricky! Start with a thin layer of the beef mixture on the bottom to prevent sticking. Alternate between beef, noodles, ricotta, and cheese layers, finishing with cheese on top for a golden, bubbly finish. Remember to let it cool before slicing, for clean, neat pieces!
- Make sure to drain and cool your noodles properly.
- Don’t overfill your layers, as they can spill over while baking.
- Covering with foil initially helps cook through, while removing it at the end browns the top.
How to Make Parmesan Garlic Bacon Cheeseburger Lasagna
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Lasagna:
- 9 lasagna noodles
- 1 lb ground beef
- 8 oz bacon, chopped
- 1 small onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can (15 oz) tomato sauce
- 2 cups ricotta cheese
- 1 large egg
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tsp Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This mouthwatering lasagna will take about 15 minutes to prepare and about 50 minutes to bake, giving you a total of around 1 hour and 5 minutes before you can enjoy it. You’ll spend a little time cooking the meat and assembling its delicious layers, then you’ll let the oven do the magic!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Noodles:
First, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Cook the lasagna noodles according to the package instructions until they are al dente. Once done, drain them and set them aside for later.
2. Cook the Bacon:
Grab a large skillet and cook the chopped bacon over medium heat until it turns crispy. Use a slotted spoon to take out the bacon and place it on a paper towel to absorb extra grease. Leave about 2 tablespoons of the bacon grease in the skillet for added flavor.
3. Sauté the Vegetables:
In the same skillet, add the diced onion and cook it until it becomes soft, roughly 3-4 minutes. Then, add the minced garlic and cook for about another minute, just until it’s fragrant.
4. Brown the Beef:
Add the ground beef to the skillet. Season it with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. Cook the beef until it’s nicely browned, breaking it up as it cooks. This should take around 5-7 minutes.
5. Mix the Sauce:
Stir in the tomato sauce along with the cooked bacon and let it simmer for about 5 minutes. Once that’s done, remove it from the heat and let it cool slightly.
6. Prepare the Ricotta Mixture:
In a separate bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, egg, grated Parmesan cheese, and add a pinch of salt and pepper. Mix it all together until smooth.
7. Assemble the Lasagna:
In a 9×13 inch baking dish, spread a layer of the beef mixture at the bottom. Then, place three lasagna noodles on top, followed by half of the ricotta mixture. Next, sprinkle a layer of mozzarella and cheddar cheese on top. Repeat these layers, finishing with a layer of the beef mixture at the top.
8. Top It Off:
For the finishing touch, add one last layer of shredded mozzarella and cheddar cheese on top of everything.
9. Bake the Lasagna:
Cover the baking dish tightly with aluminum foil and bake it in the preheated oven for 25 minutes. After that, remove the foil and bake for an additional 15-20 minutes until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown.
10. Cool and Serve:
Once it’s done, let the lasagna cool for about 10 minutes before slicing into it. Garnish with fresh parsley for a lovely touch, and then it’s ready to serve!
Enjoy your delicious Parmesan Garlic Bacon Cheeseburger Lasagna!
Can I Substitute Ground Beef with Another Meat?
Absolutely! You can use ground turkey, chicken, or even pork as a substitute for ground beef. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time as needed, since leaner meats may cook faster. Seasoning is key, so make sure to add extra herbs and spices if you opt for a milder meat!
How Can I Make This Recipe Vegetarian?
To make a vegetarian version, simply skip the ground beef and bacon. You can add more vegetables like mushrooms, zucchini, or spinach for added flavor and texture. Use a plant-based meat substitute if you want a meaty texture without meat!
Can I Make This Lasagna Ahead of Time?
You sure can! Assemble the lasagna and cover it tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil. You can store it in the fridge for up to 2 days before baking, or freeze it for up to 2 months. If frozen, bake straight from the freezer, adding about 30 minutes to the covered baking time.
What’s the Best Way to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, place individual portions in the microwave or warm it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 20 minutes, until heated through. Add a splash of water or a sprinkle of cheese on top before reheating to keep it moist!
