Cheeseburger Lasagna (Print Version)

# Ingredients:

→ Meat Layer

01 - 1 lb (450 g) ground beef
02 - 6 slices cooked bacon, crumbled
03 - 1 small onion, finely diced
04 - 3 cloves garlic, minced
05 - 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
06 - 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
07 - Salt and pepper, to taste

→ Parmesan Garlic Sauce

08 - 4 tablespoons butter
09 - 4 tablespoons all-purpose flour
10 - 2 cups (480 ml) whole milk
11 - 1 cup (100 g) grated Parmesan cheese
12 - 1 teaspoon garlic powder
13 - Salt and pepper, to taste

→ Additional Layers

14 - 12 lasagna noodles, cooked according to package instructions
15 - 2 cups (200 g) shredded mozzarella cheese
16 - 1 cup (100 g) shredded cheddar cheese
17 - 1/2 cup (50 g) ricotta cheese (optional)
18 - 2 tablespoons parsley, chopped (for garnish)

# Instructions:

01 - In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef until browned. Drain any excess fat. Add diced onion, minced garlic, Italian seasoning, and smoked paprika. Cook until the onion softens. Stir in crumbled bacon, season with salt and pepper, then set aside.
02 - In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Stir in the flour and cook for 1-2 minutes, whisking constantly to form a roux. Slowly whisk in the milk and cook until thickened. Remove from heat, then stir in Parmesan cheese and garlic powder. Season with salt and pepper.
03 - Set your oven to 375°F (190°C) and lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
04 - Spread a thin layer of Parmesan garlic sauce at the bottom of the dish. Add 3 lasagna noodles over the sauce. Layer a third of the meat mixture, drizzle with Parmesan garlic sauce, and sprinkle mozzarella and cheddar cheese. Repeat the layers, finishing with a generous layer of cheese on top.
05 - Cover with foil and bake for 25 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for another 10-15 minutes, until the cheese is golden and bubbly.
06 - Let the lasagna cool for 10 minutes before slicing. Garnish with parsley and serve warm.

# Notes:

01 - For extra flavor, add sliced pickles between the layers to enhance the cheeseburger taste.
02 - Prepare the lasagna in advance and refrigerate. If baking from cold, add an extra 10 minutes to the baking time.
03 - This lasagna pairs well with a side of garlic bread or a fresh green salad.