This Parmesan Garlic Bacon Cheeseburger Lasagna is a tasty twist on traditional lasagna! It layers hamburger meat, cheese, bacon, and pasta with a hint of garlic, making every bite ooze with flavor.
Who doesn’t love a mash-up of two favorite dishes? It’s like a cheeseburger and lasagna had a party and invited all the best toppings! I love serving it with a simple salad for a complete meal!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Lasagna Noodles: Regular or no-boil lasagna noodles work well here. If you’re gluten-sensitive, consider using gluten-free pasta instead. Just remember that gluten-free noodles may need a little extra cooking time.
Ground Beef: I like to use lean ground beef for less grease. If you’re looking for a lighter option, ground turkey or chicken can be great substitutes. Just be aware they can have a milder flavor.
Bacon: Bacon adds a delicious crunch and flavor. If you prefer a healthier version, turkey bacon works too. For a vegetarian option, you could use smoked paprika or liquid smoke for a similar flavor.
Ricotta Cheese: If you’re not a fan of ricotta, cottage cheese can be a good substitute. It’s lower in fat and provides a similar texture—just blend it a bit first for a smoother mix.
Cheeses: Mozzarella and cheddar are classic choices. You can switch it up with provolone or gouda for a different taste! A bit of feta can also add a nice tang.
How Can I Make Sure My Lasagna Holds Together?
Your lasagna’s layers should be neat and easy to slice. The key is in the layering and cooking techniques. Here are some tips to help you achieve that perfect slice:
- Cook the noodles until al dente so they aren’t mushy and can hold their shape.
- Don’t overload the lasagna with sauce; a thin layer will keep it together.
- Let it sit after baking for about 10 minutes. This helps the layers firm up, making slicing easier.
When layering, make sure to distribute the mixture evenly. This way, each piece will have just the right amount of meat, cheese, and noodles! Enjoy making this scrumptious dish!
How to Make Parmesan Garlic Bacon Cheeseburger Lasagna?
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Lasagna:
- 12 lasagna noodles
- 1 lb ground beef
- 6 slices bacon, diced
- 1 small onion, chopped
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 can (15 oz) tomato sauce
- 1 can (6 oz) tomato paste
- 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
For the Cheese Mixture:
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup ricotta cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
For Garnish:
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious lasagna recipe will take about 15 minutes to prepare and around 45-50 minutes of cooking time. In total, you’ll spend about 1 hour and 5 minutes making this hearty meal that’s perfect for family gatherings!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This will ensure it’s hot and ready when you assemble the lasagna.
2. Prepare the Lasagna Noodles:
Cook the lasagna noodles according to the package instructions. You want them to be al dente, meaning they should be cooked but still firm. Once they are done, drain them and set them aside.
3. Cook the Bacon:
In a large skillet over medium heat, toss in the diced bacon. Cook it until it’s nice and crispy. Once done, remove the bacon from the skillet and set it aside, but leave the delicious bacon drippings in the pan!
4. Sauté the Onion and Garlic:
In the same skillet with the bacon drippings, add the chopped onion and minced garlic. Sauté them for about 3-4 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they are softened and fragrant.
5. Brown the Ground Beef:
Add the ground beef to the skillet with the onions and garlic. Cook it until it’s nicely browned. Remember to drain any excess fat so it’s not too greasy!
6. Make the Meat Sauce:
Now it’s time for the sauce! Stir in the tomato sauce, tomato paste, Worcestershire sauce, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper into the skillet. Let it all simmer together for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally to mix everything well.
7. Mix the Cheese:
In a large bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, half of the mozzarella, half of the cheddar, and grated Parmesan cheese. Mix everything together until well combined.
8. Assemble the Lasagna:
Grab a 9×13 inch baking dish and spread a thin layer of the meat sauce on the bottom. Next, place a layer of lasagna noodles over the sauce. Then, spread some of the cheese mixture over the noodles, followed by a layer of meat sauce and a sprinkle of crispy bacon. Repeat these layers until all ingredients are used, finishing with the last layer of noodles topped with the remaining meat sauce and the rest of the mozzarella and cheddar cheese.
9. Bake the Lasagna:
Cover the baking dish with foil and place it in the preheated oven. Bake for 25 minutes, then remove the foil and bake for an additional 15-20 minutes. You’ll know it’s ready when the cheese is bubbly and golden!
10. Cool and Garnish:
After baking, let the lasagna cool for about 10 minutes before slicing it. This makes it easier to serve. Don’t forget to sprinkle the fresh parsley on top before you dig in!
Enjoy your delightful and cheesy Parmesan Garlic Bacon Cheeseburger Lasagna!
Can I Use No-Boil Lasagna Noodles?
Absolutely! If you prefer no-boil noodles, simply layer them directly into the baking dish without cooking first. The sauce will soak into them while baking, so make sure to add a bit of extra liquid (like water or broth) to ensure they cook properly.
Can I Make This Lasagna Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can assemble the lasagna a day in advance and store it covered in the fridge. Just bake it when you’re ready to serve. You might need to extend the baking time by a few minutes if baking from cold.
How to Store Leftovers
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. For longer storage, freeze portions in airtight containers for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw in the fridge overnight and warm in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through.
Can I Substitute Ground Beef with Another Meat?
Definitely! You can use ground turkey, chicken, or even a meat substitute if you’re looking for a leaner option. Just make sure to cook it thoroughly and season well to maintain flavor.
