Parmesan Garlic Bacon Lasagna: A Delicious Twist on Classic Comfort Food

Parmesan Garlic Bacon Lasagna is a dish that brings comfort and indulgence to the dinner table like no other. Imagine layers of rich, creamy cheese, savory bacon, and the aromatic essence of garlic, all nestled between sheets of tender pasta. This recipe is not just a meal; it’s a celebration of flavors that have been cherished in Italian cuisine for generations. The combination of Parmesan and garlic elevates the traditional lasagna to new heights, making it a favorite among family and friends.

People love this dish for its delightful balance of taste and texture. The crispy bacon adds a satisfying crunch, while the gooey cheese creates a luscious mouthfeel that keeps you coming back for more. Plus, it’s a convenient option for busy weeknights or special gatherings, as it can be prepared ahead of time and baked just before serving. Join me as we dive into the world of Parmesan Garlic Bacon Lasagna, where every bite is a delicious experience that warms the heart and satisfies the soul.

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)

Preparing the Noodles

1. 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.
2. Once cooked, drain the noodles and lay them flat on a clean kitchen towel or parchment paper to prevent them from sticking together.

Cooking the Meat Mixture

3. 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 bacon grease in the skillet.
4. In the same skillet, add the diced onion and cook until it becomes translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
5. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute, stirring frequently to avoid burning.
6. 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.
7. Once the meat is cooked, drain any excess fat and return the skillet to the heat. Stir in the marinara sauce and the crispy bacon. Let it simmer for about 5 minutes to meld the flavors together.

Preparing the Ricotta Mixture

8. In a medium bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, egg, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Mix well until smooth and creamy. This will be the creamy layer of our lasagna.

Assembling the Lasagna

9. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
10. In a 9×13 inch baking dish, spread a thin layer of the meat sauce on the bottom. This will prevent the noodles from sticking.
11. Place 3 lasagna noodles over the sauce, slightly overlapping them.
12. Spread half of the ricotta mixture over the noodles, followed by a third of the mozzarella cheese.
13. Add another layer of the meat sauce, then repeat the process: 3 more noodles, the remaining ricotta mixture, another third of the mozzarella, and more meat sauce.
14. For the final layer, place the last 3 noodles on top, cover with the remaining meat sauce, and sprinkle the remaining mozzarella and all of the Parmesan cheese on top.

Baking the Lasagna

15. 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.
16. Bake in the preheated oven for 25 minutes.
17. After 25 minutes, remove the foil and bake for an additional 15-20 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown.
18. Once done, remove the lasagna from the oven and let it sit for about 10-15 minutes before slicing. This resting time helps the layers set and makes serving easier.

Serving the Lasagna

19. Use a sharp knife to cut the lasagna into squares. I like to serve it with a sprinkle of fresh parsley on top for a pop of color and freshness.
20. Pair it with a simple side salad and some garlic bread for a complete meal.

Enjoy your delicious Parmesan Garlic Bacon Lasagna! It’s a hearty dish that’s perfect for family gatherings or a cozy night in. The combination of flavors from the bacon, garlic, and cheeses creates a mouthwatering experience that will have everyone coming back for seconds.

Conclusion:

In conclusion, this Parmesan Garlic Bacon Lasagna is truly a must-try for anyone looking to elevate their pasta game. The combination of rich, creamy layers infused with the savory goodness of bacon and the aromatic touch of garlic creates a dish that is not only comforting but also incredibly satisfying. Each bite is a delightful explosion of flavors that will leave you and your guests craving more.

For serving suggestions, I recommend pairing this lasagna with a fresh garden salad drizzled with a light vinaigrette to balance the richness of the dish. You could also serve it alongside some crusty garlic bread for that extra indulgence. If you’re feeling adventurous, consider adding some sautéed spinach or mushrooms to the layers for an added depth of flavor and nutrition. You can even experiment with different cheeses, like mozzarella or ricotta, to customize it to your taste.

I encourage you to give this Parmesan Garlic Bacon Lasagna a try and make it your own! Whether it’s for a family dinner, a potluck, or just a cozy night in, this recipe is sure to impress. Don’t forget to share your experience and any variations you try; I’d love to hear how it turns out for you! Happy cooking!

---