Cheesy Chicken and Bacon Pasta Bake Recipe

Cook Time: 40 minutes

Ingredients

• 8 ounces penne pasta
• 3 ounces pork shoulder bacon, cut into strips
• 12 ounces chicken breast meat, cubed
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• 1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
• 3 tablespoons butter
• 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
• 2 cups milk
• 4 ounces shredded mozzarella cheese
• 2 ounces shredded Gruyere cheese

Directions

Step 1: Fill a large pot with lightly salted water and bring to a rolling boil. Stir in penne and return to a boil. Cook pasta uncovered, stirring occasionally, until tender yet firm to the bite, about 10 minutes.

Step 2: Meanwhile, cook bacon in a large skillet over medium-high heat, turning occasionally, until the fat has rendered, about 4 to 5 minutes. Remove the bacon to a plate to cool.

Step 3: Preheat the oven to 350F (175C).

Step 4: Add chicken to the same skillet, then stir in Italian seasoning and black pepper. Cook and stir until the chicken is golden, about 5 minutes. Remove from heat.

Step 5: Chop the bacon and add it to the skillet with the chicken.

Step 6: In a large saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Whisk in flour until smooth and golden.

Step 7: Pour in the milk while whisking constantly. Stir in the mozzarella cheese and Gruyere cheese, and cook until the cheese has fully melted.

Step 8: Drain the pasta and pour the cheese sauce over the pasta. Stir in the chicken and bacon mixture.

Step 9: Pour the entire mixture into a casserole dish and bake in the preheated oven, uncovered, until bubbly, about 30 minutes.

Cook's Note

Pork shoulder bacon is different from regular strips of bacon. It's much meatier and thicker, with no perfect substitute. A recommended brand is Ralphs Arkie Style Bacon.

Nutrition Facts (per serving)

Calories	25g Fat	32g Carbs	52g Protein
572	25g	32g	52g

Nutrition Facts (per serving)

Amount	% Daily Value*
Total Fat: 25g	33%
Saturated Fat: 14g	71%
Cholesterol: 153mg	51%
Sodium: 695mg	30%
Total Carbohydrate: 32g	12%
Dietary Fiber: 1g	5%
Total Sugars: 7g	-
Protein: 52g	103%
Vitamin C: 0mg	0%
Calcium: 519mg	40%
Iron: 2mg	13%
Potassium: 691mg	15%

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

History and Origin

The cheesy chicken and bacon pasta bake is a contemporary American dish that draws inspiration from traditional comfort foods. This type of baked pasta meal is popular for its versatility and ability to combine simple ingredients into a rich, satisfying meal. The dish likely evolved in North America during the 20th century when casseroles became a staple of family dinners. The inclusion of cheese, chicken, and bacon mirrors classic comfort foods, while the addition of pasta lends it a heartiness that makes it a go-to choice for weeknight meals.

Regional Variations

While the dish is typically associated with American cuisine, it has found variations in many other regions. For instance, in the UK, a similar dish might use different types of cheese like Cheddar and may incorporate vegetables such as peas or leeks. In the United States, regional preferences for bacon (such as using maple-cured or thick-cut) or variations in the type of pasta (rigatoni or ziti instead of penne) can influence the final flavor profile. Despite these regional twists, the core ingredientscheese, chicken, bacon, and pastaremain largely unchanged.

Difference from Similar Dishes

What sets this cheesy chicken and bacon pasta bake apart from other pasta bakes, such as the popular "mac and cheese" or "chicken Alfredo bake," is the inclusion of bacon, which adds a smoky, savory dimension to the dish. The combination of mozzarella and Gruyre cheese also provides a balanced meltiness and sharpness, compared to the milder, creamier cheeses typically used in other pasta bakes. The addition of Italian seasoning and a white sauce also gives this dish a more Mediterranean flair, differentiating it from its more traditional American counterparts.

Common Occasions and Serving Locations

This dish is commonly served as a comforting family dinner or at casual gatherings, such as potlucks or dinner parties. It is typically found on the menus of American diners, casual restaurants, and home kitchens across the country. The bake is popular in colder months due to its hearty nature and warming, cheesy texture. Its also a great option for meal prep, as it can be made ahead and enjoyed over several days.

Fun Facts

1. The bacon used in this recipe, especially the pork shoulder bacon, is a unique ingredient that isn't typically found in other pasta bakes. Its thicker, meatier texture provides a distinct flavor compared to traditional crispy bacon.

2. The combination of Gruyre and mozzarella cheeses in the sauce helps to create a smooth, rich consistency that complements the pasta and chicken perfectly. Gruyre adds a slightly nutty taste, while mozzarella provides the classic creamy, stretchy texture.

3. While the recipe calls for penne pasta, the dish can be easily customized by using other pasta shapes, like rotini or fusilli, which will hold the cheese sauce in different ways.

4. Baked pasta dishes like this one have a long-standing tradition in Italian-American cuisine, and this variation blends Italian-inspired flavors with American comfort food elements.

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