PARMESAN GARLIC BACON CHEESEBURGER LASAGNA (Absolutely delicious)

 INGREDIENTS:

For the Meat Sauce:
1 pound ground beef
4 slices of bacon, chopped
1 small onion, finely chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 can (15 oz) tomato sauce
1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
1 tablespoon Italian seasoning
Salt and pepper to taste

For the Cheese Mixture:
15 oz ricotta cheese
1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1 egg
1 teaspoon garlic powder
Salt and pepper to taste

For Assembly:
9 lasagna noodles, cooked and drained
2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese (for topping)
Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

 INSTRUCTIONS:

STEP 1: PREPARE THE MEAT SAUCE
– Cook Bacon: In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the chopped bacon until crispy. Remove and drain on paper towels, leaving the drippings in the skillet.
– Brown Beef: In the same skillet, add the ground beef and cook until browned. Drain excess fat.
– Add Aromatics: Stir in the chopped onion and minced garlic, cooking until the onion is translucent.
– Combine Sauce: Add the tomato sauce, diced tomatoes, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Simmer for about 15 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.

STEP 2: MAKE THE CHEESE MIXTURE
– Combine Ingredients: In a bowl, mix together the ricotta cheese, grated Parmesan cheese, egg, garlic powder, salt, and pepper until well combined.

STEP 3: ASSEMBLE THE LASAGNA
– Layer Ingredients: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). In a 9×13 inch baking dish, spread a thin layer of the meat sauce on the bottom. Place 3 lasagna noodles on top.
– Add Cheese Mixture: Spread half of the cheese mixture over the noodles, followed by a third of the meat sauce and a third of the mozzarella cheese.
– Repeat Layers: Add another layer of noodles, the remaining cheese mixture, another third of the meat sauce, and another third of the mozzarella cheese. Top with the final layer of noodles, the remaining meat sauce, and the remaining mozzarella cheese. Sprinkle the top with 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese.

STEP 4: BAKE
– Bake: Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake for 25 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 15 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown.
– Cool and Serve: Allow the lasagna to cool for about 10 minutes before slicing. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley before serving.

Prep Time: 20 minutes | Cook Time: 45 minutes | Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes | Servings: 8

Enjoy your Parmesan Garlic Bacon Cheeseburger Lasagna, a delightful twist on classic lasagna that combines all your favorite flavors!