Description

Creamy Bacon Cheese Pasta Bake is the ultimate comfort food, offering a delightful blend of tender pasta enveloped in a rich, creamy sauce, and topped with crispy bacon. This dish is perfect for family gatherings or cozy weeknight dinners, guaranteed to please even the pickiest eaters. With its golden crust and gooey cheese, it invites second helpings and creates lasting memories around the dinner table.

Ingredients

Scale

8 oz penne or rotini pasta
6 oz thick-cut bacon, chopped
1 cup heavy cream
2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
1 tsp garlic powder
1 tsp seasoning salt
1 cup breadcrumbs (preferably panko)
2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped

Instructions

Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
Boil salted water in a large pot; add pasta and cook until al dente according to package instructions.
In a skillet over medium heat, cook bacon until crispy; drain on paper towels.
In the same skillet, add heavy cream and whisk in garlic powder and seasoning salt over low heat until warmed through.
Gradually stir in shredded cheeses until melted and smooth.
Combine cooked pasta, creamy sauce, and crumbled bacon in a large bowl.
Transfer mixture to a greased baking dish; top with breadcrumbs and remaining cheese.
Bake for about 25 minutes until bubbly and golden brown.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Category: Main
Method: Baking
Cuisine: American

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 cup (240g)
Calories: 550
Sugar: 3g
Sodium: 800mg
Fat: 34g
Saturated Fat: 18g
Unsaturated Fat: 12g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 40g
Fiber: 2g
Protein: 24g
Cholesterol: 90mg

Keywords: For added nutrition, consider adding spinach or broccoli to the mix. This dish can be assembled ahead of time; just bake before serving. Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to three days.