This scrumptious lasagna combines the flavors of parmesan, garlic, and crispy bacon with hearty layers of pasta. It’s like a cheeseburger party in a pan!
You can’t go wrong with bacon, right? The gooey cheese and crispy bits make every bite a winning combination. Trust me, your taste buds will thank you! 😋
I love that this dish is all in one, making it perfect for a busy night. Just layer, bake, and enjoy with a side salad for a fun and tasty meal!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: I like using ground beef for its flavor. You can substitute with ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option, or even plant-based crumbles if you’re looking for a vegetarian twist.
Bacon: Bacon adds a fantastic crunch and flavor. If you’re avoiding pork, turkey bacon works well too. For a veggie option, consider using mushrooms sautéed until golden.
Cheeses: Cheddar and mozzarella are my favorites in this lasagna. If you’re in the mood for something different, feel free to swap in provolone or a blend of Italian cheeses.
Marinara Sauce: Store-bought marinara is convenient, but homemade is always a treat. If you’re short on time, you can use any tomato-based pasta sauce or even Alfredo for a creamy variation.
How Do I Layer Lasagna Without It Falling Apart?
Layering is key to a great lasagna that holds its shape. Start with a bit of sauce on the bottom to prevent sticking. When layering:
- Use uncooked noodles for a convenient option. They will soften during baking.
- Evenly spread sauces, cheeses, and meat to maintain balance.
- Don’t be afraid to press gently down as you layer. This helps everything stick together.
- Let the lasagna rest for 10 minutes after baking. This allows it to firm up for easier slicing.
These tips will help you create a structured, delicious lasagna that’s easy to serve! Enjoy the process and the tasty result!
Easy Parmesan Garlic Bacon Cheeseburger Lasagna
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Filling:
- 1 lb ground beef
- 6 slices bacon
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp dried Italian seasoning
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
For the Lasagna Layers:
- 9 uncooked lasagna noodles
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 cups ricotta cheese
- 2 cups marinara or tomato pasta sauce
- 1 tbsp olive oil (if needed for cooking)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This tasty lasagna will take about 15 minutes to prep, plus 50 minutes of cooking time. Allow for another 10 minutes to rest after baking, making a total of about 1 hour and 15 minutes. It’s simple to prepare and great for feeding a crowd!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This will prepare it for baking your delicious layers of lasagna.
2. Cook the Bacon:
In a skillet over medium heat, cook the bacon until it’s crispy. Once done, take it out and let it drain on paper towels. When cool, crumble or chop it into small pieces—you want crunchy bits to sprinkle throughout!
3. Sauté Onions and Garlic:
Using the same skillet, add the chopped onion and minced garlic. Sauté them for about 2-3 minutes until they soften and become fragrant. Then, add your ground beef. Cook this until it’s browned and fully cooked through. If there’s excess fat, don’t forget to drain it!
4. Season the Meat:
Mix in the Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper with the meat mixture. Stir everything together well and then remove from heat.
5. Prepare the Ricotta Mixture:
In a separate bowl, combine the ricotta cheese with half of the grated Parmesan cheese. Mix until fully incorporated—this is going to be creamy goodness in your lasagna!
6. Begin Layering the Lasagna:
Spread a thin layer of marinara sauce on the bottom of a 9×13 inch baking dish. Then, place 3 uncooked lasagna noodles on top of that sauce. Spread half of the ricotta mixture over these noodles and follow with half of the cooked beef mixture. Sprinkle on half the crumbled bacon, then layer on 1 cup each of shredded cheddar and mozzarella cheese.
7. Repeat Layers:
Repeat the layering process using another 3 noodles, the remaining ricotta mixture, beef mixture, crumbled bacon, cheddar, and mozzarella cheeses.
8. Final Layer and Bake:
Finish with the last 3 noodles on top, slather the remaining marinara sauce over that, and sprinkle the remaining Parmesan cheese across the top. Cover your dish with aluminum foil to prevent burning the cheese.
9. Bake:
Place the covered dish in the oven and bake for 40 minutes. After that, take off the foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes until the cheese is nice and bubbly and starting to turn golden.
10. Let It Rest:
Once out of the oven, allow the lasagna to rest for 10 minutes before slicing. This step ensures it holds together nicely when you cut into it!
And there you have it! Enjoy your hearty, cheesy, garlicky bacon cheeseburger lasagna with friends and family! 🍽️
FAQ for Easy Parmesan Garlic Bacon Cheeseburger Lasagna
Can I Use Different Types of Meat?
Absolutely! While ground beef is traditional, you can substitute it with ground turkey or chicken for a lighter dish, or try a meatless option like plant-based crumbles for a vegetarian version that still holds those delicious flavors.
What Can I Substitute for Ricotta Cheese?
If you don’t have ricotta cheese on hand, you can use cottage cheese blended until smooth or a mixture of cream cheese and sour cream for a similar creamy texture.
Can I Make This Lasagna Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can assemble the lasagna a day in advance! Just cover it tightly and store it in the refrigerator. When you’re ready to bake, you may need to add a few extra minutes to the cooking time since it will be cold from the fridge.
How to Store Leftovers?
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, just pop it in the microwave or oven until warmed through. For best results, add a splash of marinara sauce before reheating to keep it moist!
