Cheesy Pasta Bake With Chicken And Bacon Recipe

Cheesy Pasta Bake With Chicken And Bacon Recipe is a delightful dish that brings comfort and satisfaction to the dinner table. This creamy, cheesy pasta bake is perfect for family gatherings or casual weeknight meals and is sure to please both kids and adults alike. Not only does it deliver rich flavors, but it also makes fantastic leftovers that can be enjoyed the next day.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: This recipe comes together in just about an hour, making it a great option for busy evenings.
• Creamy Delight: The combination of rich cream and cheese creates a smooth texture that’s hard to resist.
• Versatile Ingredients: You can easily swap in your favorite vegetables or use different types of pasta based on what you have on hand.
• Family-Friendly: It’s loaded with familiar flavors that kids love, making it a hit at the dinner table.
• Perfect for Meal Prep: This pasta bake stores well in the fridge and reheats beautifully, making it ideal for meal prep.

Tools and Preparation

To make the Cheesy Pasta Bake With Chicken And Bacon Recipe successfully, you’ll need some essential kitchen tools. Having the right equipment makes the cooking process smoother and more enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large pot
• Frying pan
• Baking dish
• Wooden spoon or spatula
• Knife and chopping board

Importance of Each Tool

• Large pot: Ideal for boiling pasta; ensures even cooking without overcrowding.
• Frying pan: Perfect for sautéing chicken and vegetables quickly, locking in flavor.
• Baking dish: A sturdy dish allows for even baking, resulting in a perfectly cooked pasta bake.

Ingredients

To create this delicious Cheesy Pasta Bake With Chicken And Bacon Recipe, gather the following ingredients:

For the Pasta Bake

• 400 g (4 1/2 cups) dried pasta shapes (I used rigatoni)
• 1 tbsp oil
• 3 large chicken breasts (approx. 600g/1.3lbs altogether) cut into bitesize chunks
• 1 large onion (peeled and chopped)
• 1 red bell pepper (de-seeded and chopped)
• 1 yellow bell pepper (de-seeded and chopped)
• 1/4 tsp salt
• 1/4 tsp pepper
• 2 cloves garlic (peeled and minced)
• 1 tbsp tomato puree (paste for USA)
• ½ tsp dried oregano
• ½ tsp dried thyme
• 2 x 400g (2 x 14oz) tins of finely chopped tomatoes
• 120 ml (1/2 cup) double (heavy) cream
• 100 g (3 packed cups) fresh baby spinach
• 6 rashers cooked bacon (roughly chopped)
• 100 g (1 cup) grated strong cheddar cheese
• 100 g (1 cup) grated mozzarella
• small bunch parsley (roughly torn)

How to Make Cheesy Pasta Bake With Chicken And Bacon Recipe

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 190C/375F (fan).

Step 2: Cook the Pasta

Boil a large pot of water. Cook the pasta for one minute less than recommended on the pack. Drain once done.

Step 3: Sauté Chicken

While the pasta cooks, heat oil in a large frying pan over medium heat. Add chicken pieces and cook until just sealed, about five minutes.

Step 4: Add Vegetables

Add chopped onion to the pan. Cook for an additional three to four minutes until softened. Then incorporate chopped peppers, salt, pepper, minced garlic, tomato puree, oregano, and thyme. Stir occasionally for two to three minutes.

Step 5: Combine Ingredients

Stir in tinned tomatoes and cream. Bring everything to a gentle bubble before adding cooked pasta, spinach, and bacon. Mix thoroughly before transferring to a large baking dish.

Step 6: Add Cheese Topping

Top your mixture with grated cheddar and mozzarella cheese. Place in the oven for 20-25 minutes or until cheese is golden brown.

Step 7: Garnish Before Serving

Remove from oven once cooked through. Top with roughly torn parsley before serving hot.

Enjoy your hearty Cheesy Pasta Bake With Chicken And Bacon!

How to Serve Cheesy Pasta Bake With Chicken And Bacon Recipe

Cheesy Pasta Bake With Chicken And Bacon is a comforting dish that can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether you’re serving it for a family dinner or at a gathering, here are some creative serving suggestions.

Individual Portions

• Serve the pasta bake in individual ramekins. This makes for an appealing presentation and allows everyone to have their own serving.

Fresh Salad

• Pair with a crisp green salad. The freshness of greens complements the cheesy richness of the pasta bake beautifully.

Garlic Bread

• Offer slices of garlic bread on the side. This adds crunch and flavor, perfect for scooping up any leftover sauce.

Steamed Vegetables

• Serve alongside steamed vegetables. Broccoli or green beans add color and nutrients, enhancing the meal’s overall healthiness.

Extra Cheese Topping

• For cheese lovers, provide an additional sprinkle of grated cheese on top just before serving. Melted cheese creates an irresistible layer of flavor.

Chopped Herbs

• Garnish with freshly chopped herbs. Options like basil or parsley add a burst of freshness and elevate the dish visually.

How to Perfect Cheesy Pasta Bake With Chicken And Bacon Recipe

To ensure your Cheesy Pasta Bake With Chicken And Bacon turns out perfectly every time, consider these helpful tips.

• Cook Pasta Al Dente: Cook the pasta slightly less than package instructions to avoid mushiness when baking.
• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh vegetables and herbs enhance flavors significantly compared to dried alternatives.
• Don’t Overcrowd the Pan: Ensure there’s enough space in your frying pan when cooking chicken to get a good sear.
• Mix Thoroughly: When combining ingredients, make sure everything is evenly mixed for consistent flavor throughout.
• Let It Rest: Allow the dish to sit for a few minutes after removing it from the oven. This helps set the layers and makes serving easier.
• Experiment with Cheese: Try different types of cheese for varied flavors; gouda or fontina can add unique tastes.

Best Side Dishes for Cheesy Pasta Bake With Chicken And Bacon Recipe

Complement your Cheesy Pasta Bake With Chicken And Bacon with delicious sides that enhance your meal experience. Here are some great options:

1. Caesar Salad: A classic salad with romaine lettuce, croutons, and Caesar dressing adds crunch and zest.
2. Roasted Brussels Sprouts: Toss Brussels sprouts in olive oil, salt, and pepper before roasting for a flavorful side with distinctive taste.
3. Coleslaw: A tangy coleslaw contrasts nicely with the richness of the pasta bake; try adding apples for sweetness.
4. Garlic Parmesan Asparagus: Lightly sauté asparagus with garlic and parmesan for a simple yet elegant side dish.
5. Stuffed Bell Peppers: Fill bell peppers with quinoa or rice mixed with spices for an added veggie boost.
6. Baked Sweet Potatoes: Serve baked sweet potatoes as a sweet counterbalance to the savory pasta bake; they are easy to prepare!
7. Zucchini Noodles: Lightly sauté zucchini noodles as a low-carb alternative that pairs well without overwhelming flavors.
8. Herbed Couscous: Fluffy couscous seasoned with herbs provides a fluffy texture that complements the creamy pasta bake perfectly.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Avoiding common mistakes can help you create the perfect Cheesy Pasta Bake With Chicken And Bacon Recipe every time.

• Using the wrong pasta shape: Not all pasta holds sauce well. Choose shapes like rigatoni or penne that trap sauce effectively.
• Overcooking the pasta: Cooking pasta too long can lead to mushy results. Always boil it for one minute less than the package instructions.
• Skipping the seasoning: Seasoning is key for flavor. Don’t forget to add salt, pepper, and herbs at various stages of cooking for depth.
• Not letting it rest before serving: Serving immediately can make it saucy. Allow your bake to rest for 5-10 minutes after taking it out of the oven for better texture.
• Ignoring cheese variety: Using only one type of cheese can limit flavor. Combine different cheeses like cheddar and mozzarella for a richer taste.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container.
• Keep in the fridge for up to 3 days.

Freezing Cheesy Pasta Bake With Chicken And Bacon Recipe

• Use a freezer-safe container or wrap tightly with foil.
• Can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating Cheesy Pasta Bake With Chicken And Bacon Recipe

• Oven: Preheat to 180°C (350°F). Cover with foil and heat for about 20-25 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave: Place in a microwave-safe dish, cover, and heat on medium power for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway.
• Stovetop: Heat gently in a pan over low heat, adding a splash of chicken broth if it looks dry.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some frequently asked questions about making Cheesy Pasta Bake With Chicken And Bacon Recipe.

Can I use other meats in this recipe?

Yes! Feel free to substitute chicken with turkey or lamb for different flavors and textures.

What can I replace the cream with?

You can use coconut cream or a plant-based alternative if you prefer a dairy-free option while still achieving creaminess.

How do I customize my Cheesy Pasta Bake With Chicken And Bacon Recipe?

Add vegetables like zucchini or mushrooms, or mix in different cheese varieties to suit your taste preferences.

Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can assemble everything in advance and store it in the fridge until you’re ready to bake it.

Final Thoughts

This Cheesy Pasta Bake With Chicken And Bacon Recipe is not only comforting but also versatile. You can easily customize it by adding your favorite vegetables or changing up the cheeses. It’s perfect for family dinners or meal prep, and trust me, your leftovers will be just as good!