Parmesan Garlic Bacon Lasagna (Print-Friendly Version)

Rich layers of beef, bacon, and creamy garlic béchamel make this lasagna irresistibly hearty and satisfying.

# What You'll Need:

→ Meat Sauce

01 - 1 lb ground beef (80/20)
02 - 1 small onion, diced
03 - 3 garlic cloves, minced
04 - 1 cup cooked bacon, crumbled
05 - 24 oz marinara sauce
06 - 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
07 - 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
08 - Salt and black pepper, to taste

→ Parmesan Garlic Béchamel

09 - 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
10 - 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
11 - 2 cups whole milk
12 - 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
13 - 2 teaspoons garlic powder
14 - Salt and black pepper, to taste

→ Assembly

15 - 12 lasagna noodles, cooked al dente
16 - 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
17 - 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
18 - 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese, for topping
19 - 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley (optional)

# How to Make It:

01 - In a large skillet over medium heat, brown the ground beef. Add diced onion and cook until softened, about 4–5 minutes. Stir in garlic and cook for 1 minute. Mix in marinara sauce, crumbled bacon, Italian seasoning, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Simmer for 10 minutes.
02 - In a saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter. Whisk in flour and cook for 1–2 minutes. Gradually whisk in milk and stir until thickened, about 5 minutes. Add Parmesan and garlic powder, then season with salt and pepper. Remove from heat.
03 - Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). In a 9×13-inch baking dish, spread a layer of meat sauce. Add noodles, béchamel, mozzarella, and cheddar. Repeat layers, finishing with cheese on top. Sprinkle with grated Parmesan.
04 - Cover the dish with foil and bake for 30 minutes. Remove foil and bake for 15 more minutes until bubbly and golden. Let it rest for 10 minutes before slicing.

# Additional Tips:

01 - Allow lasagna to rest before slicing for clean portions.
02 - Simmering bacon in the sauce enhances smokiness.
03 - Blending mozzarella, cheddar, and Parmesan deepens flavor layers.