Description
Cheesy Bacon Pasta Bake with Broccoli Crumble
Ingredients
For the Pasta Bake:
12 oz pasta (penne, fusilli, or elbow macaroni)
1 1/2 cups cooked bacon, chopped
1 1/2 cups broccoli florets, finely chopped
2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
2 cups milk
2 tbsp unsalted butter
2 tbsp all-purpose flour
1/2 tsp garlic powder
Salt and pepper to taste
For the Broccoli Crumble Topping:
1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs
1/2 cup finely chopped broccoli
1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
2 tbsp olive oil
Directions
Cook the Pasta: Boil the pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
Prepare the Cheese Sauce: In a medium saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Whisk in flour and cook for 1 minute. Slowly whisk in milk, stirring until thickened. Add garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Stir in cheddar and mozzarella cheeses until melted and smooth.
Combine the Pasta: In a large bowl, mix the cooked pasta, bacon, broccoli, and cheese sauce. Pour the mixture into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish.
Make the Broccoli Crumble: In a small bowl, combine panko breadcrumbs, chopped broccoli, Parmesan cheese, and olive oil. Mix well and sprinkle evenly over the pasta.
Bake: Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Bake the pasta for 20-25 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and crispy.
Serve: Let cool for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy warm with a side salad or garlic bread!
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Total Time: 40 minutes
Servings: 6
Calories: 450 kcal per serving
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Step-by-Step Guide
Follow these detailed steps for a perfect bake. First, ensure all ingredients are prepped: cook and chop the bacon, finely chop the broccoli florets, and grate the cheeses. While the pasta boils, start the cheese sauce. The key to a smooth sauce is to whisk the flour into the melted butter for a full minute to cook out the raw taste before gradually adding the milk. When combining, ensure the pasta, bacon, and broccoli are evenly coated with sauce before transferring to the baking dish. For the crumble, mix until the oil evenly coats the breadcrumbs and broccoli. Sprinkle it in an even layer for consistent crunch.
Serving Suggestions
This hearty bake is a complete meal on its own, but it pairs wonderfully with a simple side salad dressed with a light vinaigrette to cut through the richness. For a true comfort food feast, serve with warm, buttery garlic bread or soft dinner rolls. A chilled, crisp white wine or sparkling water with lemon makes an excellent beverage pairing.
How-to Summary
This dish involves cooking pasta, making a from-scratch cheese sauce, combining it with bacon and broccoli, topping with a unique broccoli-panko crumble, and baking until golden. The entire process takes about 40 minutes for a creamy, crunchy, and satisfying family dinner.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this pasta bake ahead of time? Yes. Assemble the dish (without baking), cover tightly, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. Add 5-10 minutes to the baking time if going straight from the fridge to the oven.
How can I make this recipe vegetarian? Simply omit the bacon. For added flavor, consider adding sautéed mushrooms, sun-dried tomatoes, or a pinch of smoked paprika to the cheese sauce.
My cheese sauce is grainy. What happened? Graininess often occurs from overheating the sauce or adding cheese too quickly. Remove the sauce from the heat before stirring in the shredded cheeses until just melted.
Can I use frozen broccoli? Absolutely. Thaw and thoroughly drain the frozen broccoli, pressing out excess water with a paper towel to prevent a soggy bake.
How do I store and reheat leftovers? Store cooled leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat portions in the microwave or, for best texture, in a 350°F oven until warmed through.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Avoid overcooking the pasta, as it will continue to soften in the oven; aim for al dente. Do not skip cooking the butter and flour mixture (the roux) for the full minute, as this prevents a floury taste. Ensure your broccoli for the filling is finely chopped so it steams properly during baking. Finally, do not overbake; remove the dish once the topping is golden and the edges are bubbly to maintain a creamy interior.
Conclusion
This Cheesy Bacon Pasta Bake with Broccoli Crumble is the ultimate weeknight winner, combining familiar comfort food with a clever, crunchy topping. It’s a versatile recipe that encourages customization while delivering consistently delicious results. Perfect for feeding a crowd or enjoying as leftovers, this bake is sure to become a regular in your dinner rotation.