“Jalapeño Popper Pasta Bake with Crispy Bacon”

“Jalapeño Popper Pasta Bake with Crispy Bacon”

Ingrediente

For the Pasta Bake

• 1 pound penne pasta
• 8 slices bacon, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 jalapeños, sliced (remove seeds for less heat)
• 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• 2 cups milk
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
• 1 cup mozzarella cheese
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Equipment:

• Large pot
• Frying pan
• Baking dish
• Whisk

Instructions:

1. Preheat Oven and Prepare Pasta:
   • Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
   • Cook pasta in a large pot of boiling salted water until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. Cook Bacon and Vegetables:
   • In a large frying pan, cook chopped bacon over medium heat until crispy. Remove bacon and set aside.
   • In the same pan, sauté minced garlic and sliced jalapeños in the bacon fat for about 2 minutes.
3. Make Cheese Sauce:
   • Sprinkle flour over the sautéed garlic and jalapeños, stir to combine.
   • Gradually whisk in milk and heavy cream, and bring to a simmer. Cook until the sauce thickens, about 5 minutes.
   • Remove from heat and stir in cheddar and mozzarella cheese until melted. Season with salt, pepper, and smoked paprika.
4. Combine Ingredients:
   • In a large mixing bowl, combine cooked pasta, crispy bacon, and cheese sauce. Mix well.
5. Assemble and Bake:
   • Transfer the pasta mixture to a greased baking dish.
   • Mix breadcrumbs and Parmesan cheese together and sprinkle over the top of the pasta.
   • Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the top is golden and crispy.
6. Garnish and Serve:
   • Garnish with chopped fresh parsley before serving.

Serving Suggestions:

• Serve this Cheesy Jalapeño Bacon Pasta Bake hot, ideally with a side salad or steamed vegetables to balance out the richness.

Title for the Recipe:

“Spicy Cheesy Jalapeño Bacon Pasta Bake”

This title emphasizes the key flavors and ingredients, making it an appealing choice for those looking for a delicious, hearty meal. Enjoy your cooking and the delightful combination of spicy, savory, and cheesy flavors in this pasta bake!