This Parmesan Garlic Bacon Cheeseburger Lasagna is a fun twist on traditional lasagna! It layers rich pasta with beefy goodness, crispy bacon, and creamy cheese, making it extra tasty.
Who can say no to bacon and cheese? I love how easy it is to make—just layer it all up and pop it in the oven! Perfect for a cozy family dinner or impressing friends. 🍽️
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: This is the star protein of the dish. You can use 80/20 ground beef for the best balance of flavor and moisture. If you’re looking for a leaner option, ground turkey or chicken also works well.
Bacon: Bacon adds a delicious crunch and smokiness. If you prefer, turkey bacon is a lighter alternative, or you can skip it altogether and pack in more veggies like mushrooms for added texture.
Ricotta Cheese: The creamy goodness! If you want a dairy-free option, try silken tofu blended until smooth. Cottage cheese can also be a good substitute, but blend it for a smoother texture.
Parmesan & Cheddar Cheese: I love using freshly shredded cheese for a rich flavor. If you’re out of Parmesan, Pecorino Romano is a great swap. For cheddar, feel free to mix in Monterey Jack for extra creaminess.
How Do You Get the Bacon Crispy without Overdoing It?
Cooking bacon perfectly is key for this recipe. You want it crispy but not burnt. Start on medium heat to prevent fat from splattering. Remove bacon when it’s golden brown, but keep some fat in the pan to flavor your beef and veggies.
- Cook bacon until crispy, then drain on paper towels.
- Leave about 2 tablespoons of drippings in the skillet for flavor.
- Adjust cooking temperature to medium as you add the other ingredients to avoid burning.
How Can You Layer the Lasagna Without it Falling Apart?
Layering correctly is crucial for a sturdy lasagna. Start by spreading enough marinara sauce on the bottom; this prevents sticking. The key is to evenly distribute each layer without overstuffing, which keeps everything together. Make sure your noodles are cooked, but not soggy, for the best results!
- Spread a thin layer of sauce on the bottom of your dish.
- Use three noodles per layer, allowing some room for the cheese mixture to expand.
- Press down gently after each layer; this helps with stability.
Delicious Parmesan Garlic Bacon Cheeseburger Lasagna
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Filling:
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 pound bacon, chopped
- 1 onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 cups ricotta cheese
- 1 cup shredded Parmesan cheese
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 2 cups marinara sauce
For the Lasagna:
- 12 lasagna noodles, cooked
- ½ teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This mouth-watering lasagna requires about 20 minutes of preparation time, plus 45-50 minutes of baking. You’ll be enjoying this cheesy delight in just a little over an hour!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Get Your Oven Ready:
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This way, it’s nice and hot when your lasagna is ready to bake!
2. Cook the Bacon:
3. Sauté the Vegetables:
In the same skillet, toss in the diced onion. Cook until it becomes soft and translucent. Add the minced garlic and stir for about a minute until it’s fragrant.
4. Brown the Beef:
Next, add the ground beef into the skillet with the onions and garlic. Season with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. Cook it until it’s browned, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks. Remember to drain any extra fat before moving on!
5. Prepare the Cheese Mixture:
In a separate bowl, mix together the ricotta cheese and Parmesan cheese until they’re well combined. Set this cheesy goodness aside for later!
6. Assemble the Layers:
Grab a 9×13 inch baking dish and start layering! First, spread a layer of marinara sauce on the bottom. Follow with 3 of the cooked lasagna noodles.
7. Continue Layering:
Now, spread half of the ricotta mixture over the noodles, add half of the cooked ground beef, and half of the crispy bacon. Top this with a generous sprinkle of cheddar cheese, then add another layer of marinara sauce.
8. Repeat the Layers:
Repeat the layering process: add another layer of noodles, the remaining ricotta mixture, more beef, the rest of the bacon, cheddar cheese, and marinara sauce.
9. Final Touches:
Finish with a last layer of noodles, spreading the remaining marinara sauce on top, and sprinkle with the remaining cheddar cheese to finish it off!
10. Bake Your Lasagna:
Cover the baking dish with foil and bake for 30 minutes. After that, remove the foil and bake for an additional 15-20 minutes. You’ll know it’s ready when the cheese is bubbly and golden brown!
11. Serve and Enjoy:
Once baked, take the lasagna out of the oven and let it sit for about 10 minutes. This waiting time helps it set up a bit and makes serving easier. Before serving, sprinkle some chopped parsley on top for a fresh finish. Enjoy your savory creation!
Can I Use Turkey Bacon Instead of Regular Bacon?
Absolutely! Turkey bacon is a great substitute if you’re looking for a leaner option. Just cook it until it’s crispy, similar to regular bacon. You might not get as much grease, so consider adding a little olive oil to the pan to sauté the onions and garlic.
What If I Don’t Have Ricotta Cheese?
No problem! You can substitute ricotta with cottage cheese for a similar texture, just blend it slightly for a creamier consistency. Alternatively, you can use cream cheese mixed with a splash of milk to achieve the right thickness and creaminess.
Can I Prepare This Lasagna in Advance?
Yes, you can assemble the lasagna a day ahead. Just cover it tightly with foil or plastic wrap and store it in the refrigerator. When you’re ready to bake, add an extra 10-15 minutes to the baking time since it will be cold from the fridge.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, place slices in the microwave or warm them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through, covering with foil to prevent the cheese from burning.
