Description
Indulge in a creamy bacon cheese pasta bake that combines tender fusilli pasta, crispy bacon, and a rich, cheesy sauce. This comforting dish is perfect for any gathering or cozy family dinner, delighting everyone with its irresistible flavors and creamy texture. With easy preparation, you can create a meal that warms the heart and satisfies the palate. Gather your loved ones around the table and enjoy this crowd-pleaser that’s sure to become a favorite!
Ingredients
Scale
- 8 oz fusilli pasta
- 6 oz thick-cut bacon, chopped
- 1 cup sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
- 4 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 cup whole milk
- 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
- 2 tbsp unsalted butter
- 2 tbsp all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup reserved pasta water (optional)
Instructions
- Cook the fusilli pasta in salted boiling water until al dente. Reserve 1/2 cup of pasta water before draining.
- In a skillet over medium heat, cook the chopped bacon until crispy. Drain on paper towels.
- In the same skillet, melt butter over medium heat, whisk in flour until golden, then gradually add milk while stirring until thickened.
- Stir in cream cheese and cheddar cheese until melted and creamy. If needed, mix in reserved pasta water for desired consistency.
- Gently fold cooked fusilli into the cheese sauce along with crispy bacon and garlic powder.
- Transfer to a greased baking dish, top with extra cheddar, and bake at 375°F for about 20 minutes or until bubbly and golden.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (240g)
- Calories: 520
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 950mg
- Fat: 30g
- Saturated Fat: 15g
- Unsaturated Fat: 12g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 40g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 23g
- Cholesterol: 70mg