This fun twist on lasagna combines layers of cheesy goodness with the tasty flavors of a bacon cheeseburger! With parmesan, garlic, and juicy beef, it’s a crowd-pleaser.
Let’s be real: bacon makes everything better! I love serving this dish on family movie nights. Grab some extra napkins; things might get a little cheesy! 🍔
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Lasagna Noodles: Traditional lasagna noodles work great, but you can use whole wheat or gluten-free noodles if needed. Pre-cooked noodles save time and help cut down cooking in the oven.
Ground Beef: I like using lean ground beef for a healthier option. For a twist, try ground turkey or chicken, or even a plant-based substitute for a vegetarian version.
Bacon: Bacon gives a nice crunch and flavor, but turkey bacon can be a lighter alternative. You can even skip it entirely if you want a meatless lasagna.
Cheeses: Ricotta adds creaminess, and I recommend part-skim ricotta to lighten it up a bit. If you’re avoiding dairy, look for plant-based ricotta or cream cheese. If you want something different, goat cheese can add a unique flavor!
Marinara Sauce: For convenience, jarred marinara works perfectly! You can make your own with crushed tomatoes and Italian spices for a homemade touch.
How Do I Get the Bacon Crispy Without Overcooking It?
The key to crispy bacon is cooking it at the right temperature. Medium heat allows fat to render out gradually, leading to crispy, not burnt bacon. Here’s how I do it:
- Start with a cold skillet to let the fat render slowly.
- Cook the bacon until it’s golden and crispy, stirring occasionally, about 6-8 minutes.
- Remove bacon with a slotted spoon and let it drain on paper towels. This keeps it crispy and removes excess grease.
By following these steps, you’ll get bacon that’s perfectly crispy and ready to add a delicious crunch to your lasagna! Enjoy your cooking!
How to Make Parmesan Garlic Bacon Cheeseburger Lasagna
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For The Lasagna:
- 12 lasagna noodles
- 1 pound ground beef
- 6 slices of bacon, chopped
- 1 small onion, diced
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 cups ricotta cheese
- 1 egg
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 2 cups mozzarella cheese, shredded
- 1 cup cheddar cheese, shredded
- 1 cup Parmesan cheese, grated
- 24 ounces marinara sauce
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
For The Cheese Mixture:
For The Sauce:
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious lasagna recipe will take about 20 minutes to prepare and 40 minutes to bake. In total, you’ll spend about 1 hour waiting to enjoy this mouthwatering meal with family or friends!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Lasagna Noodles:
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). While the oven heats, cook the lasagna noodles according to the package instructions. Once cooked, drain them and set them aside. These noodles will form the layers of your delicious lasagna.
2. Cook the Bacon and Beef:
In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the chopped bacon until it’s nice and crispy. Once done, take the bacon out, but leave the grease in the skillet. Next, add the diced onion to the skillet and sauté for about 3 to 5 minutes, or until the onion looks translucent. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute. Then, add the ground beef and cook until it’s browned. Don’t forget to drain any excess fat and season with salt and pepper.
3. Make the Cheese Mixture:
In a separate mixing bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, egg, Italian seasoning, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Mix everything together until it’s well combined. This will be a creamy layer in your lasagna.
4. Assemble the Lasagna:
Grab a 9×13 inch baking dish and spread a thin layer of marinara sauce on the bottom. Place 3 lasagna noodles on top of the sauce. Next, spread half of the ricotta mixture on the noodles, then half of the beef mixture, and half of the cooked bacon. Sprinkle some mozzarella and cheddar cheeses on top. Repeat these layers once more—noodles, ricotta, beef, bacon, and cheeses.
5. Finish with the Final Layer:
For the final layer, place the remaining noodles on top. Pour the rest of the marinara sauce over the noodles and generously sprinkle the remaining mozzarella, cheddar, and Parmesan cheese on top.
6. Bake the Lasagna:
Cover your baking dish with foil and bake it in the oven for 25 minutes. After that time, carefully remove the foil and continue baking for another 15 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown.
7. Cool and Serve:
Once baked, take the lasagna out of the oven and let it cool for about 10 minutes before slicing. Garnish with some freshly chopped parsley for a pop of color before serving. Enjoy your delicious Parmesan Garlic Bacon Cheeseburger Lasagna!
Can I Use a Different Type of Meat?
Absolutely! You can substitute ground beef with ground turkey, chicken, or even a plant-based meat alternative for a healthier or vegetarian option. Just adjust the cooking time as needed, particularly if using leaner meats which may require less cooking time to prevent drying out.
What Can I Substitute for Ricotta Cheese?
If you don’t have ricotta cheese, cottage cheese is a great alternative! You can also blend cream cheese with a splash of milk to achieve a similar texture. For a dairy-free option, try using silken tofu blended until smooth.
How Do I Store Leftover Lasagna?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. You can also freeze the lasagna before baking; just cover it tightly with foil or plastic wrap. Thaw in the fridge overnight before baking, and increase the baking time by about 10-15 minutes if baking from frozen.
Can I Make This Dish Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can assemble the lasagna a day ahead, cover it tightly, and keep it in the fridge until you’re ready to bake. Just remember to adjust the baking time since it will be cold when it goes into the oven. You might need to add an extra 10-15 minutes to ensure it’s heated all the way through.
