This fun twist on lasagna layers cheesy goodness with flavorful bacon and a hint of garlic. It’s like a cheeseburger and lasagna had a tasty baby!
Who wouldn’t want to dive into layers of pasta, meaty sauce, and gooey cheese? I usually make this when I’m craving comfort food with a twist. Easy and so filling!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Lasagna noodles: Traditional lasagna noodles work perfectly, but you can also use oven-ready noodles for an easier assembly. Gluten-free noodles are great if you need a gluten-free option.
Ground beef: Beef is the heart of this dish, but ground turkey or chicken can be a leaner alternative. For a vegetarian twist, try lentils or a mix of mushrooms.
Bacon: Bacon adds a smoky flavor, but you could use turkey bacon or omit it entirely for a lighter version. If you’re vegetarian, try using smoked paprika for a hint of that bacon taste.
Cheeses: Besides mozzarella and cheddar, feel free to mix in some pepper jack for a spicy kick! If you’re dairy-free, there are plant-based cheese options available.
Italian seasoning: If you don’t have Italian seasoning on hand, a mix of dried oregano and basil can do the trick. Fresh herbs will elevate your dish even more!
How Do You Make Sure the Cheese Is Perfectly Melted and Bubbly?
Getting cheese just right is key for a great lasagna! Here’s how to achieve that perfectly melted, golden layer:
- Use a mix of cheeses for depth of flavor—mozzarella for stretchiness, cheddar for sharpness, and Parmesan for a nutty finish.
- Cover with aluminum foil for the first 30 minutes to prevent burning. Then, remove the foil and bake longer to brown the top.
- If it’s not bubbly enough, you can put it under the broiler for a minute or two but watch closely to avoid burning.
How to Make Parmesan Garlic Bacon Cheeseburger Lasagna
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For The Lasagna:
- 9 lasagna noodles
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 cup cooked bacon, chopped
- 1 onion, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can (15 oz) tomato sauce
- 1 can (6 oz) tomato paste
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
For The Cheese Mixture:
- 2 cups ricotta cheese
- 1 egg
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
For Garnish:
- Fresh parsley, chopped
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious lasagna takes about 45 minutes of prep time and around 50 minutes to bake, making a total of about 1 hour and 35 minutes. Get ready for some mouthwatering layers of flavor!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat and Prepare:
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). While the oven is heating up, cook the lasagna noodles according to the package instructions until they are al dente (not too soft). Once cooked, drain the noodles and set them aside.
2. Cook the Beef and Bacon Mixture:
In a large skillet, over medium heat, add the ground beef. Cook it until it’s nicely browned, be sure to drain any excess fat. Now, add the finely chopped onion and minced garlic to the skillet. Sauté them until the onion turns translucent and aromatic. Next, stir in the chopped bacon, tomato sauce, tomato paste, Italian seasoning, and a dash of salt and pepper. Let it all simmer together for about 5-10 minutes to let those wonderful flavors combine.
3. Prepare the Ricotta Mixture:
In a separate bowl, mix together the ricotta cheese, egg, and a bit of salt and pepper until it’s well blended. This will add a creamy layer to your lasagna!
4. Start Layering:
In a 9×13 inch baking dish, spread a thin layer of the meat sauce at the bottom. Now, place 3 lasagna noodles on top of the sauce. Next, add half of the ricotta mixture, followed by a layer of the meat sauce and a sprinkle of mozzarella and cheddar cheeses. Repeat the same process: another layer of noodles, the ricotta mixture, meat sauce, and a mix of mozzarella and cheddar.
5. Final Layer and Bake:
For the top layer, place the final 3 noodles, then cover them with the remaining meat sauce. Finish it off by sprinkling mozzarella, cheddar, and Parmesan cheese over the top. Cover your dish with aluminum foil, and pop it in the oven to bake for 30 minutes. After that, remove the foil and bake for an additional 15-20 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbling and golden brown.
6. Cool and Serve:
Once baked, let the lasagna cool for a few minutes before slicing into it. Don’t forget to garnish with chopped fresh parsley for a beautiful finish! Serve it hot and enjoy your hearty Parmesan Garlic Bacon Cheeseburger Lasagna!
Can I Use Whole Wheat Lasagna Noodles?
Absolutely! Whole wheat lasagna noodles can be a healthier alternative. Just be sure to cook them according to the package instructions. Since they can soak up more moisture, you might want to slightly increase the tomato sauce to prevent the lasagna from drying out.
What If I Don’t Have Ricotta Cheese?
No problem! You can easily substitute ricotta with cottage cheese or a blend of cream cheese and sour cream. If you use cottage cheese, just blend it until smooth for a better consistency. You can also add a bit of grated Parmesan for extra flavor!
How to Store Leftovers
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. To reheat, simply pop individual slices in the microwave or reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through. Cover with foil to keep it moist!
Can I Freeze This Lasagna?
Yes, you can freeze this lasagna before or after baking! If freezing before baking, assemble it, cover it tightly with foil, and freeze for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to bake, thaw it in the fridge overnight and bake as directed, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.
