Bacon Broccoli Pasta Bake Recipe

Cook Time: 55 minutes

Recipe

Ingredients

This recipe was developed at its original yield. Ingredient amounts are automatically adjusted, but cooking times and steps remain unchanged. Note that not all recipes scale perfectly. The original recipe (1X) yields 6 servings:

• 6 slices bacon
• 1 cup broccoli florets, cut into small pieces
• 2 cups dried protein pasta
• 1 1/2 cups high-protein milk, or more as needed
• 1 cup chicken bone broth
• 1 (8-ounce) pub cheese
• 1 cup shredded Cheddar cheese
• 1/4 cup unsalted butter
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
• 1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper

Directions

Preheat the oven to 375F (190C).

Place bacon in a large skillet and cook over medium-high heat, turning occasionally until evenly browned, about 10 minutes. Drain the bacon on paper towels and crumble it once cool enough to handle.

Place the broccoli in a microwave-safe bowl with a small amount of water. Cook on High until bright green, about 1 to 2 minutes. Drain the water and set the broccoli aside.

In a 9x13-inch baking dish, combine uncooked pasta, milk, broth, melted butter, pub cheese, 1/2 cup of shredded Cheddar, salt, garlic powder, onion powder, black pepper, bacon, and broccoli. Stir well to ensure the pub cheese is evenly distributed throughout the mixture.

Cover the dish tightly with foil and bake until the pasta is nearly tender and most of the liquid is absorbed, stirring halfway through the cooking time (approximately 45 to 50 minutes). If the pasta seems dry at the halfway point, add up to 1/4 cup more milk.

Remove the foil and sprinkle the remaining 1/2 cup of Cheddar cheese on top. Continue baking for another 10 to 15 minutes until the top is golden and bubbly.

Let the dish stand for 5 minutes before serving.

Nutrition Facts (per serving)

Nutrition	Amount	% Daily Value*
Calories	319
Total Fat	21g	27%
Saturated Fat	11g	56%
Cholesterol	59mg	20%
Sodium	815mg	35%
Total Carbohydrate	17g	6%
Dietary Fiber	2g	6%
Total Sugars	3g
Protein	16g	33%
Vitamin C	17mg	19%
Calcium	244mg	19%
Iron	1mg	5%
Potassium	245mg	5%

* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily values may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.

** Nutrient information is not available for all ingredients. Amount is based on available nutrient data.

(-) Information is not currently available for this nutrient. If you are following a medically restrictive diet, please consult your doctor or registered dietitian before preparing this recipe for personal consumption.

The Origins of Bacon Broccoli Pasta Bake

The Bacon Broccoli Pasta Bake is a modern comfort food creation rooted in mid-20th century American cuisine. Its origins can be traced to the post-war era, when casseroles became popular due to their convenience and versatility. Combining pasta, vegetables, cheese, and cured meats, this dish exemplifies the eras culinary emphasis on hearty, one-dish meals that could feed a family efficiently. While pasta casseroles were common in Italian-American households, the addition of bacon and pub cheese reflects a distinctly American twist, emphasizing smoky flavors and creamy textures.

Regional Variations and Characteristics

This pasta bake is most popular in the United States, particularly in the Midwest and Southern regions, where casseroles are a staple of home cooking. In the Midwest, the dish often features a heavier use of cheese and milk, creating a rich, indulgent texture. Southern versions may incorporate more spices, such as garlic and onion powder, to enhance the savory profile. Broccoli is a key ingredient, providing both color and nutritional balance, while the bacon adds a salty, smoky contrast. Some variations even substitute cheddar with pepper jack or mozzarella to reflect local tastes.

How It Differs from Similar Dishes

While similar to other baked pasta dishes, the Bacon Broccoli Pasta Bake distinguishes itself through its combination of ingredients and textures. Unlike a traditional macaroni and cheese, it incorporates fresh vegetables and bacon, offering a balance of creaminess, crunch, and smokiness. Compared to a standard broccoli and cheese casserole, this recipe uses pasta as a base, making it more filling and suitable as a main course. Additionally, the use of pub cheesecreamy and slightly tangygives it a unique flavor that sets it apart from simpler cheese sauces.

Typical Serving Context

Bacon Broccoli Pasta Bake is usually served as a family dinner or potluck dish, especially during colder months when warm, hearty meals are preferred. Its often accompanied by a fresh side salad or garlic bread to complement the richness of the casserole. Restaurants that focus on comfort foods, casual diners, and pub-style eateries may feature this dish as a weekly special, often under a baked pasta or casserole section of the menu. Its equally popular as a make-ahead meal, reheating well without losing texture or flavor.

Fun and Interesting Facts

• The combination of bacon and broccoli in a pasta bake is believed to enhance the nutritional profile, as the smokiness of bacon encourages consumption of the otherwise mild-flavored broccoli.
• Pub cheese, often used in this dish, originated in American taverns as a spreadable cheese dip, making its way into baked casseroles for added creaminess.
• This dish exemplifies the sheet pan or one-dish meal trend, allowing for minimal cleanup while maximizing flavor and texture.
• Bacon Broccoli Pasta Bake is often adapted for meal prepping, as it stores well in the refrigerator and freezes without losing taste.
• Despite being a comfort food, the recipe can be made lighter by using high-protein pasta and reduced-fat cheese, appealing to health-conscious cooks.

FAQ about Bacon Broccoli Pasta Bake Recipe