Directions to follow
Brown the meat: In a large skillet, cook ground beef and onion over medium heat until the beef is no longer pink. Drain any excess grease.
Add garlic: Stir in minced garlic and sauté for another minute until fragrant.
Mix in bacon and sauces: Incorporate the crumbled bacon, tomato sauce, ketchup, mustard, salt, and pepper. Let this mixture simmer for about five minutes to meld the flavors.
Prepare the cheese mixture: In a mixing bowl, combine ricotta cheese, egg, garlic powder, onion powder, 1 cup of cheddar cheese, and 1/2 cup of mozzarella cheese.
Preheat the oven: Set your oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
Layer the ingredients: Spread a thin layer of meat sauce at the bottom of the dish. Place 3 lasagna noodles on top, then spread half of the cheese mixture and followed by more meat sauce. Repeat this layering process, finishing with noodles topped with the remaining meat sauce and cheese.
Bake: Cover with foil and bake for 25 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes until the cheese is bubbly and golden.
Cool and garnish: Allow the dish to cool for about 10 minutes before garnishing with shredded lettuce and diced pickles, if desired. Serve hot!
Best ways to enjoy it
Bacon Cheeseburger Lasagna is divine on its own, but you can elevate your dining experience with some creative plating! Serve it with a side of garlic bread for a crunchy contrast or pair with a fresh garden salad to balance the richness. For those who love a bit of heat, consider drizzling some sriracha or hot sauce on top.
Keeping leftovers fresh
To store your Bacon Cheeseburger Lasagna, let it cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. For longer storage, you can freeze it for up to 3 months. When reheating, ensure it is heated thoroughly to an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) to safely enjoy your delicious creation.
Helpful cooking tips
Layering technique: Ensure you’re generous with both meat sauce and cheese fillings in each layer, as this will enhance flavor and keep the lasagna moist.
Noodle pause: Cook lasagna noodles al dente; they’ll soften further in the oven without getting mushy.
Extra cheese, please: Don’t hesitate to sprinkle additional cheese on top layer for that extra gooey goodness.
Creative twists
If you want to shake things up, consider these variants:
- Spicy Cheeseburger Lasagna: Mix in some diced jalapeños or crushed red pepper flakes for a spicy kick.
- Vegetarian Spin: Replace meat with sautéed mushrooms, zucchini, and bell peppers for a veggie-forward dish.
FAQs
How long does it take to make Bacon Cheeseburger Lasagna?
From prep to table, it takes about 50-60 minutes, making it a feasible weeknight dinner option.
Can I use homemade tomato sauce instead of canned?
Absolutely! Homemade sauce can add a personal touch, and it’s a great opportunity to use fresh ingredients.
How do I reheat leftovers?
You can reheat slices in the microwave or place the entire dish back in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until hot throughout, about 20-30 minutes.
This Bacon Cheeseburger Lasagna is sure to become a staple in your household, combining the joys of two beloved dishes into one irresistible meal!
