Imagine a dish that combines the rich, savory flavor of crispy bacon, the aromatic punch of homemade pesto, and three decadent cheeses melted into perfectly cooked pasta - all baked to golden, bubbling perfection. This Cheesy Pesto Bacon Pasta Bake isn't just a meal; it's a culinary experience that transforms ordinary ingredients into an extraordinary dinner that will have everyone at the table begging for seconds. Whether you're looking to impress dinner guests or treat yourself to the ultimate comfort food, this recipe is about to become your new obsession!
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 30 mins
Total Time: 45 mins
Cuisine: Italian
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 8 ounces pasta (penne or fusilli)
- 1 cup cooked bacon, chopped
- 1 cup pesto sauce
- 1 cup ricotta cheese
- 1 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9x13 inch baking dish with cooking spray or butter to prevent sticking.
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente, typically 8-10 minutes. Drain the pasta and return it to the pot.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked pasta, chopped bacon, pesto sauce, and ricotta cheese. Gently mix until the pasta is evenly coated with the pesto and cheese mixture.
- Season the pasta mixture with salt and pepper to taste. Mix thoroughly to distribute the seasonings evenly.
- Transfer the pasta mixture to the prepared baking dish, spreading it out in an even layer.
- Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese over the top of the pasta, ensuring even coverage.
- Generously dust the top with grated Parmesan cheese, which will create a golden, crispy crust when baked.
- Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and starts to turn golden brown and bubbly.
- Remove from the oven and let the pasta bake rest for 5 minutes before serving. This allows the cheese to set and makes serving easier.
- Serve hot, garnished with additional fresh basil or parsley if desired. Pair with a light salad or garlic bread for a complete meal.
Tips
- Cook pasta just until al dente to prevent mushiness during baking
- Use high-quality pesto for maximum flavor intensity
- Let the pasta bake rest for 5 minutes after cooking to help cheese set and make serving easier
- For extra crispiness, broil the top for 2-3 minutes at the end of baking
- Choose thick-cut bacon for more substantial, flavorful bacon pieces
- Experiment with different cheese combinations like adding some sharp cheddar
- Fresh herbs as a garnish can brighten the entire dish's flavor profile
- Ensure even cheese distribution for consistent melting and flavor in every bite
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 580kcal
Carbohydrates: 45g
Protein: 30g
Fat: 35g
Saturated Fat: 15g
Cholesterol: 75mg
