This cheesy lasagna is an awesome twist on a classic! Layered with tender pasta, rich marinara, and mouthwatering bacon, it’s a crowd-pleaser for sure.
With the delicious combo of garlic, parmesan, and burger flavors, who wouldn’t want a slice? I find myself going back for seconds. 😂
This dish is super fun to prepare! Just layer everything up in a dish and let the oven do the work. Perfect for those busy weeknights!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Lasagna Noodles: Standard lasagna noodles work well here, but you can try no-boil noodles for even quicker prep! They’re a time-saver and also give a nice texture.
Ground Beef: I love using lean ground beef, but turkey or a plant-based ground meat can also be great alternatives for a lighter meal or a vegetarian option.
Bacon: The crispy bacon adds a lot of flavor, but if you’d prefer to skip meat, you could use smoked paprika for a similar depth or even tempeh bacon for a vegetarian option.
Cheeses: I suggest sticking with ricotta and Parmesan for texture and flavor, but if you’re looking for lighter options, cottage cheese can work instead. If you’re dairy-free, try cashew ricotta and dairy-free cheese varieties.
Marinara Sauce: A good quality store-bought marinara is a shortcut I love for convenience. You can also make your own sauce if you want that homemade taste, just use crushed tomatoes, garlic, and herbs!
How Do I Cook the Perfect Layers for My Lasagna?
Layering is key to achieving that perfect lasagna! Each ingredient contributes to the overall flavor and texture. Start with a layer of marinara to prevent sticking, and build from there.
- Place 4 lasagna noodles on the sauce initially, which will start your layers.
- Spread your ricotta mixture evenly for creaminess that holds the lasagna together.
- Add the beef and bacon mixture on top, ensuring even coverage.
- Remember to sprinkle cheese generously in each layer for that gooey goodness.
- Finish with a final layer of noodles, marinara, and cheeses. This seals in flavors and melts beautifully.
Lastly, let it cool a bit after baking. This allows the layers to set, making it easier to slice. Enjoy creating this lasagna masterpiece!
Parmesan Garlic Bacon Cheeseburger Lasagna
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Lasagna:
- 12 lasagna noodles
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1/2 lb bacon, chopped
- 1 small onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 15 oz ricotta cheese
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 large egg
- 2 cups marinara sauce
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious lasagna will take about 15 minutes to prepare and 40-45 minutes to bake. So, you’ll need around 1 hour total before you can dig in and enjoy this cheesy goodness!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven and Prepare 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 directions. Once done, drain them and set aside for later.
2. Cook the Bacon:
In a large skillet, add the chopped bacon. Cook it over medium heat until it’s crispy and golden brown. Once cooked, transfer the bacon to a plate lined with paper towels to soak up any extra grease. Leave the drippings in the skillet for the next step!
3. Sauté the Beef and Vegetables:
In the same skillet with the bacon drippings, add the ground beef, chopped onion, and minced garlic. Cook everything together until the beef is browned and the onion is softened. Don’t forget to drain any excess fat when you’re done!
4. Mix the Ricotta Filling:
In a mixing bowl, combine the ricotta cheese with the egg, Italian seasoning, and a sprinkle of salt and pepper. Mix until everything is blended nicely.
5. Layer the Lasagna:
Grab your 9×13 inch baking dish. Start by spreading a layer of marinara sauce at the bottom. Place 4 lasagna noodles over the sauce. Then, spread half of the ricotta mixture on top of the noodles. Follow with half of the beef mixture, and sprinkle half of the crispy bacon on top. Lastly, add 1/3 of the shredded mozzarella and cheddar cheeses.
6. Repeat the Layers:
Now, let’s repeat those layers! Place another set of 4 lasagna noodles, then add the remaining ricotta, beef, and bacon. Layer another 1/3 of mozzarella and cheddar cheese on top.
7. Final Layer:
For the final layer, add the last set of noodles. Spread the remaining marinara sauce on top and finish it off with the remaining Parmesan, mozzarella, and cheddar cheeses.
8. Bake the Lasagna:
Cover your baking dish tightly with foil and bake in the preheated oven for 25 minutes. After that, take off the foil and bake for an additional 15-20 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown.
9. Cool and Serve:
Once it’s done, let the lasagna cool for about 10 minutes before slicing into it. When you’re ready to serve, sprinkle some chopped parsley on top for a fresh touch. Enjoy your hearty, cheesy meal!
Can I Use a Different Type of Meat in This Recipe?
Absolutely! You can substitute ground beef with ground turkey, chicken, or even plant-based ground meat for a lighter or vegetarian option. Just adjust the cooking time accordingly, as lean meats may cook faster.
Can I Prepare This Lasagna Ahead of Time?
Certainly! You can assemble the lasagna in advance and refrigerate it (covered) for up to 24 hours before baking. Just add an extra 10-15 minutes to the baking time if you bake it straight from the fridge.
How Should I Store Leftover Lasagna?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, microwave individual portions or bake at 350°F (175°C) until heated through. Adding a splash of marinara sauce helps keep it moist during reheating!
What Can I Use Instead of Ricotta Cheese?
If you don’t have ricotta on hand, you can use cottage cheese blended until smooth, or cream cheese for a richer texture. Just remember to season them slightly, as ricotta has a mild flavor that balances the dish nicely!
