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Cheesy Bacon Cavatappi

Cheesy Bacon Cavatappi

  • Author: Lina
  • Total Time: 35 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings 1x
  • Diet: Gluten Free (if gluten-free pasta used)

Description

Cheesy Bacon Cavatappi is a comforting and indulgent pasta dish combining creamy melted cheddar and Parmesan cheese sauce with smoky, crispy bacon over spiral-shaped cavatappi noodles. Perfect for a cozy weeknight dinner or weekend feast, this easy-to-make recipe delivers rich flavors, creamy textures, and is highly customizable to suit your preferences.

Ingredients

Scale

Main Ingredients

  • 8 ounces cavatappi pasta
  • 6 strips bacon
  • 1 1/2 cups sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
  • 1/2 cup Parmesan cheese, grated
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 tablespoons butter
  • Salt and pepper, to taste

Instructions

  1. Cook the bacon: Fry the bacon strips in a large skillet over medium heat until crisp and golden. Remove and drain on paper towels, reserving some bacon grease.
  2. Boil the cavatappi pasta: Cook pasta in a large pot of salted boiling water according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and toss briefly with a little butter to prevent sticking.
  3. Make the cheese sauce: In the bacon skillet, melt butter and sauté minced garlic in the reserved bacon grease until fragrant. Slowly add heavy cream while stirring constantly. Fold in shredded sharp cheddar and Parmesan cheese, melting into a smooth sauce. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
  4. Combine pasta and bacon: Toss the cooked pasta into the cheese sauce. Add chopped bacon pieces and mix thoroughly so every bite is coated with cheesy, smoky goodness.
  5. Bake for a golden finish (optional): Transfer mixture to a baking dish, top with additional cheese, and bake in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for about 15 minutes or until bubbly and golden brown on top.

Notes

  • Use sharp cheddar for best melty and punchy cheesy flavor.
  • Cook pasta al dente to prevent mushiness.
  • Save some bacon grease to sauté garlic for enhanced flavor.
  • Mix different cheeses for richer creaminess and complexity.
  • Serve immediately for optimal texture before sauce thickens.
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 25 minutes
  • Category: Main Course
  • Method: Boiling, Sautéing, Baking
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 cup
  • Calories: 450 kcal
  • Sugar: 2 g
  • Sodium: 650 mg
  • Fat: 30 g
  • Saturated Fat: 15 g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 12 g
  • Trans Fat: 0.5 g
  • Carbohydrates: 30 g
  • Fiber: 2 g
  • Protein: 18 g
  • Cholesterol: 90 mg

Keywords: Cheesy Bacon Cavatappi, comfort food, bacon pasta, creamy cheese pasta, cavatappi recipe

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Find it online: https://dishesbylina.com/cheesy-bacon-cavatappi/