Description
Layered Bacon Lasagna
Brighten up this rich lasagna with a zesty lemon ricotta layer!
Ingredients:
12 lasagna noodles, cooked
500g ground chicken
1 jar marinara sauce
1 cup mozzarella
1 cup ricotta
1 tbsp lemon zest
6 slices cooked bacon
Instructions:
Preheat oven to 180°C. Cook chicken and mix with marinara sauce.
Combine ricotta and lemon zest. Layer noodles, ricotta, mozzarella, chicken sauce, and bacon. Repeat.
Bake for 25 minutes.
A refreshing twist on a classic!
#LemonRicottaLasagna
Step-by-Step Guide
Follow these detailed instructions for perfect Layered Bacon Lasagna every time. First, preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F). Cook 12 lasagna noodles according to package directions until al dente, then drain and lay them flat on a sheet of parchment paper to prevent sticking. In a skillet over medium heat, cook 500g of ground chicken until no longer pink, breaking it into small crumbles. Drain any excess fat, then stir in one full jar of your favorite marinara sauce. In a separate bowl, mix one cup of ricotta cheese with one tablespoon of finely grated lemon zest until fully combined.
Now, assemble the lasagna in a 9×13 inch baking dish. Spread a thin layer of the chicken marinara sauce on the bottom. Place a layer of three noodles over the sauce. Evenly spread half of the lemon ricotta mixture over the noodles, then sprinkle with a quarter cup of mozzarella. Next, add a layer of the chicken sauce and crumble two slices of the pre-cooked bacon on top. Repeat this sequence (noodles, ricotta, cheese, sauce, bacon) two more times. For the final top layer, use the last three noodles, cover with the remaining chicken sauce, and top with the remaining mozzarella cheese and crumbled bacon.
Serving Suggestions
This rich lasagna pairs beautifully with lighter sides to balance the meal. Serve it with a crisp arugula salad dressed in a simple lemon vinaigrette to echo the citrus notes. For a heartier meal, add a side of roasted asparagus or garlic bread. A glass of medium-bodied red wine, like a Chianti, complements the savory bacon and tomato flavors perfectly.
How-to Summary
In short: Cook noodles and chicken. Mix chicken with marinara sauce, and ricotta with lemon zest. In a dish, layer noodles, lemon ricotta, mozzarella, chicken sauce, and crumbled bacon. Repeat layers. Top with remaining sauce, cheese, and bacon. Bake at 180°C for 25 minutes, or until bubbly and golden.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this lasagna ahead of time? Absolutely. Assemble the lasagna completely, cover tightly, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. When ready to bake, you may need to add 10-15 minutes to the cooking time.
Can I use a different meat? Yes. Ground turkey, pork, or a plant-based ground meat substitute all work well as alternatives to the ground chicken.
What if I don’t have fresh lemon zest? While fresh zest provides the best flavor, 1/2 teaspoon of high-quality lemon extract can be used in a pinch. Avoid bottled lemon juice as it lacks the bright, aromatic oils.
How should I store leftovers? Cool leftovers completely, then store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 3-4 days. Reheat individual portions in the microwave or cover the dish with foil and reheat in a 160°C oven until warm.
Can I freeze this lasagna? Yes, for up to 3 months. Wrap the unbaked or fully baked and cooled lasagna tightly in plastic wrap and foil. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before baking or reheating.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Overcooking the Noodles: Cook noodles only to al dente. They will continue to soften while baking, preventing a mushy final texture.
- Skipping the Pre-cook for Bacon: Ensure your bacon is fully cooked and crispy before crumbling. Adding raw bacon will result in greasy, undercooked pieces.
- Not Draining the Meat: Always drain excess fat from the cooked ground chicken to prevent an oily sauce layer.
- Forgetting to Season: Taste your chicken marinara mixture and add salt, pepper, or Italian herbs if needed before assembling.
Conclusion
This Layered Bacon Lasagna with its zesty lemon ricotta is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser that masterfully balances rich, savory flavors with a bright, refreshing twist. By following the step-by-step guide and heeding the common pitfalls, you can create a stunning, restaurant-quality dish right at home. It’s a versatile recipe perfect for both weeknight dinners and special occasions. Give it a try and enjoy the delicious layers of flavor!