Cheese and Bacon Pasta BakeWhen the weather turns cold and you’re looking for a delicious meal to get you through the winter, there’s nothing quite like a savory pasta bake. This cheesy and bacon-filled version is sure to be a hit in your household and is a quick and easy way to make a comforting dinner.
Ingredients for Cheese and Bacon Pasta Bake
This cheesy and bacon-filled pasta bake is sure to satisfy any craving. The ingredients you’ll need are:- 2 cups of elbow macaroni
- 1/2 cup of cooked bacon, crumbled
- 1/2 cup of shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup of shredded mozzarella cheese
- 2 tablespoons of butter
- 2 tablespoons of all-purpose flour
- 1 cup of milk
- 1/2 teaspoon of salt
- 1/4 teaspoon of black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon of garlic powder
- 1/4 teaspoon of dried oregano
- 1/4 teaspoon of dried basil
Instructions for Cheese and Bacon Pasta Bake
1. Preheat your oven to 375°F.2. Bring a pot of salted water to a boil. Add the elbow macaroni and cook for 8-10 minutes or until al dente. Drain the macaroni and set aside.3. In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium-low heat. Once the butter is melted, add the flour, stirring constantly to make a roux. Cook the mixture for 2-3 minutes, stirring constantly, to cook out the flour taste.4. Slowly add the milk to the roux, stirring constantly to avoid lumps. Cook the mixture, stirring often, until it thickens slightly.5. Add the salt, pepper, garlic powder, oregano, and basil to the sauce and stir to combine.6. Add the cooked macaroni, crumbled bacon, and both types of cheese to the sauce and stir until the cheese is melted and everything is evenly combined.7. Grease a 9x13 inch baking dish and pour the macaroni and cheese mixture into it. Spread it evenly in the dish.8. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until the top is golden brown and bubbly.9. Let cool slightly and enjoy!
What to Serve with Cheese and Bacon Pasta Bake
This cheesy and bacon-filled pasta bake is a delicious dinner on its own, but if you’re looking for something to serve alongside it, we recommend a simple side salad or a roasted vegetable. Roasted asparagus, Brussels sprouts, or cauliflower would all pair nicely with this dish.
Tips for Making the Best Cheese and Bacon Pasta Bake
- If you don’t have cooked bacon on hand, you can easily cook some in a skillet before beginning the recipe.- We recommend using a good quality cheese for this recipe for the best flavor.- To make this dish even creamier, add 1/2 cup of sour cream or cream cheese to the sauce before baking.- For a bit of extra flavor, you can top the pasta bake with a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese or a pinch of red pepper flakes before baking.
Frequently Asked Questions
What type of cheese is best for cheese and bacon pasta bake?
We recommend using a good quality cheddar and mozzarella cheese for the best flavor.
How long should I cook the macaroni?
Cook the macaroni for 8-10 minutes or until al dente.
Can I use other types of cheese in the dish?
Yes, you can use any type of cheese you prefer.
Can I add other ingredients to the pasta bake?
Yes, you can add other ingredients such as cooked sausage, cooked ground beef, vegetables, etc.
Can I freeze cheese and bacon pasta bake?
Yes, you can freeze cheese and bacon pasta bake. To do so, allow the dish to cool completely and then transfer it to a freezer-safe container. It will keep for up to 3 months.
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