This cheesy lasagna layers rich ground beef, crispy bacon, and a sprinkle of garlic for a tasty twist on a classic! The creamy parmesan pulls it all together, making each bite super yummy.
Who knew lasagna could get even more delicious? I love serving this with a side salad. It’s a hit at family dinners, and trust me, nobody leaves the table hungry! 🍽️
Ingredients & Substitutions
Lasagna noodles: Classic lasagna noodles are great for this dish, but if you’re looking for a healthier twist, try whole wheat or even zucchini slices for a low-carb option!
Ground beef: You can substitute ground turkey or chicken if you’re looking for a leaner meat. If you’re vegetarian, consider using lentils or plant-based meat alternatives.
Bacon: For a different flavor, turkey bacon works well. If you’re avoiding meat, you could skip it altogether or use crumbled tofu sautĂ©ed with soy sauce for a similar texture.
Cheeses: If you’re lactose intolerant, use dairy-free cheese options. Also, cottage cheese can stand in for ricotta for a lighter choice. I like combining mozzarella with sharp cheddar for a zesty kick!
Italian seasoning: If you don’t have this blend, mix your own with dried basil, oregano, and thyme. Fresh herbs can add a lovely touch if you have them on hand.
How Do You Layer Lasagna for Best Flavor and Texture?
Layering is key to a delicious lasagna. Start by ensuring each layer has a good balance of sauce, cheese, and noodles. This helps everything meld together beautifully.
- Begin with a thin meat sauce layer to prevent sticking.
- Follow with noodles, ensuring they overlap for stability.
- Add a generous layer of the ricotta mixture, followed by a mix of cheeses for that melty goodness.
- Repeat these layers and finish with a final noodle layer topped with meat sauce and cheese.
- Covering it with foil initially traps steam for cooking the noodles, then remove it to brown the cheese.
Remember to let the lasagna rest after baking! This helps it set, making slicing much easier.
Delicious Parmesan Garlic Bacon Cheeseburger Lasagna
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Lasagna:
- 12 lasagna noodles
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 cup cooked bacon, chopped
- 1 small onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 cups marinara sauce
- 1 cup sour cream
- 1 cup ricotta cheese
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This scrumptious lasagna will take about 40 minutes to prepare and about 40 minutes to bake, making a total of around 1 hour and 20 minutes from start to finish. Your taste buds will thank you for the wait!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepping the Noodles:
First things first! Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). While it’s warming up, cook the lasagna noodles according to the package directions until they are al dente. Once done, drain them and set aside for later.
2. Cooking the Beef Mixture:
In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef along with the diced onion. You want to cook it until the beef is browned and the onion goes all soft and translucent. Add in the minced garlic and cook for one more minute, letting all those amazing flavors blend together.
3. Making the Sauce:
Next, stir in the marinara sauce, chopped bacon, Italian seasoning, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Let everything simmer on low heat for about 5 minutes to allow the flavors to come together. It’s going to smell amazing!
4. Mixing the Cheese Filling:
In a separate mixing bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, sour cream, and half of the grated Parmesan cheese. Mix it all together until it’s smooth and creamy—this will add a great richness to your lasagna.
5. Layering the Lasagna:
Now, it’s time to build your lasagna! Start by spreading a thin layer of the meat sauce in the bottom of a 9×13 inch baking dish. Place 4 lasagna noodles over that, then spread half of the ricotta mixture on top of the noodles. Sprinkle a third of the mozzarella and cheddar cheese over the ricotta layer. Repeat this layering (meat sauce, noodles, ricotta, mozzarella, and cheddar) until you reach the top. Finish with a final layer of noodles and pour the remaining meat sauce over them.
6. Adding the Cheese and Baking:
Now for the finishing touch! Sprinkle the remaining mozzarella, cheddar, and Parmesan cheese over the top layer. Cover the dish with foil to keep everything nice and moist, and bake it in the preheated oven for 25 minutes. After that time, take off the foil and let it bake for an additional 15 minutes. You’ll know it’s done when the cheese is bubbly and golden brown.
7. Cooling Down and Serving:
Once baked, remove the lasagna from the oven and let it cool down for about 10 minutes. This will make it easier to slice. Before serving, sprinkle some fresh chopped parsley on top for a pop of color and extra flavor!
Enjoy your homemade Parmesan Garlic Bacon Cheeseburger Lasagna with family and friends! It’s comfort food at its best.
Can I Substitute the Ground Beef with Another Protein?
Absolutely! Ground turkey or chicken can be used as a leaner alternative. If you prefer a vegetarian option, try using lentils or mushrooms for a hearty texture. Just make sure to adjust cooking times accordingly if you’re using raw vegetables or legumes.
How Do I Store Leftover Lasagna?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. You can also freeze it! Wrap the lasagna tightly with plastic wrap and then aluminum foil before freezing for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw in the fridge overnight and bake at 350°F (175°C) until heated through.
Can I Make This Dish Gluten-Free?
Yes, you can! Simply use gluten-free lasagna noodles and double-check that your marinara sauce and any other ingredients are gluten-free as well. Cooking times should remain similar!
What’s the Best Way to Ensure My Lasagna Isn’t Watery?
To prevent a watery lasagna, make sure to drain excess fat from the beef and simmer the sauce long enough to thicken it. Additionally, let your lasagna sit for about 10 minutes after baking to set before slicing; this will help it maintain its shape!
