Parmesan Garlic Bacon Lasagna: A Delicious Twist on Classic Comfort Food
Savor the delicious layers of this Parmesan Garlic Bacon Lasagna, combining ground beef, pork, and crispy bacon with creamy ricotta and melted mozzarella. Ideal for family meals or gatherings, this hearty dish is sure to delight everyone at the table!
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 50 minutes
- Total Time: 80 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings 1x
Ingredients
Scale
- 12 lasagna noodles
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 pound ground pork
- 8 slices of bacon, chopped
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 cups marinara sauce
- 1 can (15 ounces) ricotta cheese
- 1 large egg
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
- Start by boiling a large pot of salted water. Once it reaches a rolling boil, carefully add the lasagna noodles. Cook them according to the package instructions until they are al dente, usually about 8-10 minutes.
- Once cooked, drain the noodles and lay them flat on a clean kitchen towel or parchment paper to prevent them from sticking together.
- In a large skillet over medium heat, add the chopped bacon. Cook until it’s crispy, about 5-7 minutes. Use a slotted spoon to remove the bacon and set it aside on a paper towel-lined plate, leaving the rendered fat in the skillet.
- In the same skillet, add the diced onion and cook until it becomes translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
- Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute, stirring frequently to avoid burning.
- Next, add the ground beef and ground pork to the skillet. Season with salt, pepper, oregano, and basil. Cook until the meat is browned and cooked through, about 8-10 minutes.
- Once the meat is cooked, drain any excess fat and return the bacon to the skillet. Pour in the marinara sauce and stir to combine. Let it simmer on low heat for about 5 minutes to meld the flavors together.
- In a medium bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, egg, half of the grated Parmesan cheese, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Mix well until everything is fully incorporated.
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- In a large baking dish (about 9×13 inches), spread a thin layer of the meat sauce on the bottom. This will prevent the noodles from sticking.
- Place 3 lasagna noodles on top of the sauce, slightly overlapping them.
- Spread half of the ricotta mixture over the noodles, followed by a third of the meat sauce. Sprinkle a layer of mozzarella cheese on top.
- Repeat the layering process: add another 3 noodles, the remaining ricotta mixture, another third of the meat sauce, and another layer of mozzarella cheese.
- For the final layer, place the last 3 noodles on top, cover with the remaining meat sauce, and sprinkle the remaining mozzarella and Parmesan cheese over the top.
- Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil, making sure it doesn’t touch the cheese. This will help the lasagna cook evenly without burning the top.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 25 minutes.
- After 25 minutes, remove the foil and bake for an additional 15-20 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown.
- Once done, remove the lasagna from the oven and let it rest for about 10-15 minutes. This resting period allows the layers to set, making it easier to cut and serve.
- Using a sharp knife or a pizza cutter, slice the lasagna into squares.
- Serve each piece on a plate, garnished with freshly chopped parsley for a pop of color and added flavor.
Notes
- Feel free to customize the meat mixture by adding your favorite vegetables or using different types of cheese.
- This lasagna can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 2 days before baking.