This yummy lasagna brings together cheesy goodness, crispy bacon, and the classic taste of a cheeseburger. Layers of pasta and rich flavors make it a family favorite!
Bacon in lasagna? Yes, please! I love how this dish makes a fun twist on two favorites. It’s an easy way to make everyone smile at dinner time! 🍔❤️
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Lasagna Noodles: Traditional lasagna noodles are perfect for this recipe. However, you can use no-boil noodles to save time. Just make sure to add a bit more sauce for the extra moisture!
Ground Beef: Lean ground beef works best here. If you’re looking for a healthier option, try ground turkey or even plant-based crumbles for a vegetarian version.
Bacon: I love using thick-cut bacon for more flavor, but turkey bacon is a lighter option if you want to cut back on fat. You can also skip the bacon entirely for a meatless meal!
Cheeses: Ricotta, mozzarella, and cheddar are classic choices, but you can swap ricotta for cottage cheese if you prefer a lower-fat option. For added flavor, try mixing in some smoked gouda or feta.
Beef Broth: Swap beef broth with vegetable broth for a vegetarian-friendly dish. You could also use chicken broth if that’s what you have on hand.
How Do I Get the Perfect Layers in My Lasagna?
Layering your lasagna properly is key to a great texture and flavor. Follow these tips for neat and delicious layers:
- Start with meat sauce at the bottom to prevent noodles from sticking.
- Be generous with the sauce between layers. This keeps the noodles moist and helps everything bind together.
- After layering, press down gently to compact the layers. This helps everything meld together while baking.
- Finish with cheese on top, which will melt and create a nice, golden crust.
Try to allow your lasagna to sit after baking. This makes slicing easier and lets the flavors settle!
How to Make Parmesan Garlic Bacon Cheeseburger Lasagna
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Lasagna:
- 12 lasagna noodles
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 lb bacon, chopped
- 1 onion, diced
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 cups ricotta cheese
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
- 1 can (15 oz) tomato sauce
- 1 cup beef broth
- 2 teaspoons Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious lasagna will take about 20 minutes for preparation and 45-55 minutes for baking, plus a 10-minute cooling time. In total, you’re looking at about 1 hour and 25 minutes from start to finish. But trust me, it’ll be worth every minute!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepping the Oven and Noodles:
First, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). While the oven is heating, cook the lasagna noodles according to the package instructions. Once done, drain the noodles and set them aside for later.
2. Cooking the Bacon and Beef:
Now, heat a large skillet over medium heat and add the chopped bacon. Cook it until crispy, then take it out and let it drain on some paper towels, keeping the bacon grease in the skillet. In that same skillet, add the ground beef and cook it until it’s nicely browned. Don’t forget to drain any excess fat! Then, add in the diced onion and minced garlic, sautéing them until the onion turns translucent.
3. Making the Sauce:
Next, stir in the tomato sauce, beef broth, Italian seasoning, and season everything with salt and pepper. Let this delicious mixture simmer for about 5 to 7 minutes to really blend those flavors together.
4. Mixing the Ricotta:
While your sauce is simmering, take a bowl and mix the ricotta cheese with half of the grated Parmesan cheese, chopped parsley, and some salt and pepper to taste. This will give you a creamy layer for the lasagna!
5. Assembling the Lasagna:
Time to layer it up! Start by spreading a layer of your meat sauce at the bottom of a 9×13 inch baking dish. Place 4 lasagna noodles on top of that. Then spread half of the ricotta mixture over the noodles, sprinkle half of the mozzarella and cheddar cheese, and then add a layer of the crispy bacon. Repeat these layers: meat sauce, noodles, ricotta mixture, mozzarella, cheddar, and bacon. Finally, add another layer of meat sauce on top, finishing things off with the remaining mozzarella, cheddar, and Parmesan cheese.
6. Baking the Lasagna:
Cover the dish with aluminum foil and pop it in the oven for 25 minutes. After that, carefully remove the foil and bake for an additional 15-20 minutes, until the cheese is golden and bubbly on top.
7. Serving Up Your Creation:
Once the lasagna is done baking, let it cool for about 10 minutes before slicing. If you’d like, garnish with some extra chopped parsley on top for a fresh touch. Serve hot and enjoy your wonderful Parmesan Garlic Bacon Cheeseburger Lasagna!
Can I Substitute Ground Beef with Another Meat?
Absolutely! You can use ground turkey, chicken, or even pork if you prefer. Just make sure to cook it thoroughly and drain any excess fat, just like you would with ground beef. The flavors may change slightly, but it will still be delicious!
What If I Don’t Have Ricotta Cheese?
No problem! You can substitute ricotta with cottage cheese or a blend of cream cheese and milk for a similar texture. If using cottage cheese, blend it a bit for a smoother consistency before layering it into the lasagna.
How Do I Store Leftover Lasagna?
Store any leftover lasagna in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. You can also freeze it for longer storage. To reheat, thaw overnight in the fridge if frozen, then warm in the oven or microwave until heated through.
Can I Make This Lasagna Vegetarian?
Absolutely! Simply omit the ground beef and bacon, and load up on your favorite vegetables, like spinach, mushrooms, or zucchini. You can also add more cheese to keep it hearty and satisfying!
