Name: Parmesan Garlic Bacon Lasagna: A Delicious Twist on Classic Comfort Food Recipe
Prep time: 25 min
Cook time: 1 h
Total time: 1 h 25 min
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 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)

Ingredients

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

Step 1: Boil a large pot of salted water. Add the lasagna noodles and cook according to package instructions until al dente, about 8-10 minutes.

Step 2: Drain the noodles and lay them flat on a clean kitchen towel or parchment paper to prevent sticking.

Step 3: In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the chopped bacon until crispy, about 5-7 minutes. Remove with a slotted spoon and set aside, leaving the grease in the skillet.

Step 4: Add the diced onion to the skillet and cook until translucent, about 3-4 minutes.

Step 5: Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.

Step 6: Add the ground beef and pork to the skillet. Season with salt, pepper, oregano, and basil. Cook until browned, about 8-10 minutes.

Step 7: Drain excess fat, return the skillet to heat, and stir in the marinara sauce and crispy bacon. Simmer for 5 minutes.

Step 8: In a medium bowl, mix the ricotta cheese, egg, and a pinch of salt and pepper until smooth and creamy.

Step 9: Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).

Step 10: Spread a thin layer of meat sauce in a 9×13 inch baking dish.

Step 11: Place 3 lasagna noodles over the sauce, slightly overlapping.

Step 12: Spread half of the ricotta mixture over the noodles, followed by a third of the mozzarella cheese.

Step 13: Add another layer of meat sauce, then repeat: 3 more noodles, remaining ricotta, another third of mozzarella, and more meat sauce.

Step 14: For the final layer, place the last 3 noodles on top, cover with remaining meat sauce, and sprinkle with remaining mozzarella and all of the Parmesan cheese.

Step 15: Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil, ensuring it doesn’t touch the cheese.

Step 16: Bake for 25 minutes.

Step 17: Remove the foil and bake for an additional 15-20 minutes, until cheese is bubbly and golden brown.

Step 18: Let the lasagna sit for 10-15 minutes before slicing.

Step 19: Cut into squares and garnish with fresh parsley.

Step 20: Serve with a side salad and garlic bread for a complete meal.

Tips & Variations

For extra flavor, try adding a splash of red wine to the meat sauce while simmering.

Substitute ground turkey for a lighter version without losing protein.

Use fresh herbs like basil and oregano instead of dried for a brighter taste.

To make ahead, assemble the lasagna and refrigerate it up to 24 hours before baking.

FAQs

Can I use no-boil lasagna noodles instead?

Yes, no-boil noodles can be used to save time. Just be sure to add a bit more sauce to ensure they cook fully during baking.

Is it possible to freeze this lasagna?

Absolutely. Assemble the lasagna and freeze it before baking. Wrap tightly in plastic wrap and foil, then bake from frozen, adding extra time—about 30-40 minutes covered with foil.