The Parmesan Garlic Bacon Cheeseburger Lasagna is the perfect blend of classic comfort foods: the hearty layers of lasagna paired with the rich flavors of a bacon cheeseburger. It’s indulgent, filling, and incredibly satisfying for family dinners or gatherings. With layers of creamy cheese, crispy bacon, savory ground beef, and a hint of garlic, this dish transforms traditional lasagna into something extraordinary. Plus, it’s customizable, making it a versatile recipe for any palate.
Ingredients
Meat Layer:
- 1 pound ground beef
- 6 slices of bacon, cooked and crumbled
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup tomato sauce
- 1/2 cup ketchup
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
Cheese Layer:
- 1 cup ricotta cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1 cup shredded Parmesan cheese
- 1 large egg
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon dried parsley
Assembly:
- 12 lasagna noodles, cooked according to package instructions
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Directions
- Prepare the Meat Mixture:
- In a large skillet, cook the ground beef over medium heat until browned. Drain excess fat.
- Add the onion and garlic to the skillet and cook until fragrant, about 2 minutes.
- Stir in the tomato sauce, ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Simmer for 5 minutes.
- Mix in the cooked and crumbled bacon. Set aside.
- Make the Cheese Mixture:
- In a medium bowl, combine ricotta cheese, mozzarella cheese, Parmesan cheese, egg, garlic powder, and dried parsley. Mix until smooth.
- Cook the Lasagna Noodles:
- Boil the lasagna noodles according to the package instructions. Drain and lay them flat on parchment paper to prevent sticking.
- Assemble the Lasagna:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Spread a thin layer of the meat mixture on the bottom of a 9×13-inch baking dish.
- Place a layer of cooked lasagna noodles over the meat.
- Spread a layer of the cheese mixture over the noodles.
- Add another layer of the meat mixture and sprinkle some cheddar cheese.
- Repeat the layers until all ingredients are used, ending with a layer of noodles topped with cheddar and Parmesan cheese.
- Bake the Lasagna:
- Cover the dish with foil and bake for 25 minutes.
- Remove the foil and bake for an additional 15 minutes, or until the cheese is golden and bubbly.
- Cool and Serve:
- Let the lasagna rest for 10 minutes before slicing and serving.
Servings and Timing
- Servings: 8 generous portions
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
Variations
- Low-Carb Option: Substitute lasagna noodles with thinly sliced zucchini or eggplant for a keto-friendly version.
- Spicy Kick: Add diced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce to the meat mixture for extra heat.
- Vegetarian Version: Replace ground beef with plant-based crumbles or sautéed mushrooms and omit the bacon.
- Extra Cheese: Layer additional types of cheese like provolone or Gouda for a richer flavor.
Storage and Reheating
- Refrigerator: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
- Freezer: Wrap individual portions tightly in foil and place them in a freezer-safe bag. Freeze for up to 3 months.
- Reheating: For best results, reheat in a 350°F (175°C) oven until warmed through, about 20 minutes. Alternatively, microwave individual portions on medium power to avoid overcooking.
FAQs
1. Can I make this recipe ahead of time? Yes! Assemble the lasagna and refrigerate it (unbaked) for up to 24 hours. Bake it when ready to serve.
2. What can I serve with this lasagna? Pair it with a crisp green salad, garlic bread, or roasted vegetables for a complete meal.
3. Can I use store-bought sauce instead of making my own? Absolutely! A quality marinara or spaghetti sauce can save time and still taste great.
4. How do I ensure my lasagna slices stay intact? Let the lasagna cool for at least 10 minutes before slicing. This allows the layers to set.
Conclusion
Parmesan Garlic Bacon Cheeseburger Lasagna is a show-stopping dish that brings together the best of two beloved comfort foods. The marriage of creamy cheeses, savory ground beef, and crispy bacon creates a flavor profile that’s both comforting and indulgent. Every bite is loaded with hearty goodness, making it the perfect meal for cozy family dinners, potlucks, or even special occasions. Whether you’re serving this to a crowd or enjoying leftovers throughout the week, it’s sure to impress.
This recipe is also incredibly versatile, allowing you to adapt it to suit your preferences. Swap out the noodles for a low-carb option or add a spicy twist to make it your own. The layers of flavor and texture—from the rich meat sauce to the gooey cheese topping—make this lasagna an unforgettable culinary experience.
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