triple parmesan baked penne with bacon

How To Make triple parmesan baked penne with bacon

• Step 1
  Preheat oven to 350 degrees F.
• Step 2
  Coat a 9x13-inch baking dish with cooking spray.Sprinkle with 2 1/2 tablespoons grated parmesan cheese around the inside of the baking dish.
• Step 3
  Add shaved parmesan cheese and crumbled blue cheese;mix well.
• Step 4
  Fill a large pot with lightly salted water and bring to a rolling boil.Once the water is boiling,stir in the penne,and return to a boil.
• Step 5
  Cook the penne uncovered, stirring occasionally,until pasta has cooked through,but is still firm to the bite,about 11 minutes.Drain well in a colander set in the sink.
• Step 6
  Place the bacon pieces into a large,deep skillet,and cook medium-high heat,stirring occasionally,until evenly browned,about 10 minutes.Stir in 2 1/2 tablespoons parmesan cheese.
• Step 7
  Drain the bacon pieces on a paper towel-lined plate.Reserved 1/2 cup of bacon drippings.Set aside.
• Step 8
  Melt margarine and bacon drippings together in a medium saucepan over medium heat.Whisk in the flour,stirring frequently,until the mixture forms a smooth paste about 5 minutes.
• Step 9
  Whisk in the milk,a little at a time,and bring the mixture to a simmer,whisking constantly until thickened.
• Step 10
  Stir in chopped carrot,basil and sea salt/black pepper,and then whisk in heavy cream, cubed cream cheese and 2 1/2 tablespoons parmesan cheese,stirring constantly until the cheeses has melted and the sauce is smooth and thick.
• Step 11
  Add cooked penne pasta,bacon mixture and remaining parmesan cheese;mix well.
• Step 12
  Slowly spoon into a prepared baking dish and spread evenly.Sprinkle with shredded parmesan cheese.Cover with aluminum foil.
• Step 13
  Bake for 25 minutes.Take them out of the oven and remove the foil.Return to the oven for 10 minutes.
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