Pasta bake is a classic family favorite meal, made with pasta, sauce, cheese, and a variety of other ingredients. Bacon and tomato pasta bake is a delicious and easy dish that can be made with a few simple ingredients. Bacon and tomato pasta bake is a hearty and comforting dish that is sure to please even the pickiest of eaters. The combination of the smoky bacon, tangy tomatoes, and creamy cheese creates a unique flavor that can’t be beat.
Ingredients Needed for Bacon and Tomato Pasta Bake
To make a delicious bacon and tomato pasta bake, you’ll need the following ingredients:
- 1 pound of penne or other short pasta
- 1 pound of bacon, cut into small pieces
- 1 onion, diced
- 3 cloves of garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons of olive oil
- 2 cans of diced tomatoes, undrained
- 1 teaspoon of dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon of dried basil
- 2 cups of shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/4 cup of grated Parmesan cheese
Instructions to Make Bacon and Tomato Pasta Bake
Making bacon and tomato pasta bake is easy and quick. To begin, preheat your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit. Next, cook the bacon in a large skillet over medium-high heat until it is crisp. Remove the bacon from the skillet and set aside. In the same skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the onion and garlic and cook until the onion is softened, about 5 minutes. Add the tomatoes and the seasonings and bring to a boil. Reduce the heat to low and simmer for 10 minutes. Add the cooked bacon to the tomato mixture and stir to combine.
Meanwhile, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook according to package instructions. Drain the cooked pasta in a colander and return it to the pot. Add the bacon and tomato mixture to the pot with the pasta and stir to combine. Transfer the pasta to a 9x13 inch baking dish. Top with the shredded mozzarella cheese and grated Parmesan cheese. Bake in the preheated oven for 25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Serving Suggestions for Bacon and Tomato Pasta Bake
Bacon and tomato pasta bake is a hearty and delicious meal that can be served as a main course. Serve it with a side of garlic bread or a simple green salad. It also makes an excellent dish to take to potlucks or family gatherings. Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to three days.
Frequently Asked Questions
What type of pasta should I use for bacon and tomato pasta bake?
Any type of short pasta will work for this recipe. Penne, macaroni, or rotini are all good choices.
Can I use fresh tomatoes instead of canned?
Yes, you can substitute two cups of fresh diced tomatoes for the two cans of diced tomatoes in this recipe.
Can I freeze bacon and tomato pasta bake?
Yes, bacon and tomato pasta bake can be frozen. Cool the dish completely, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or foil, and freeze for up to three months.
How do I reheat bacon and tomato pasta bake?
To reheat bacon and tomato pasta bake, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight. Preheat your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit and bake the dish for 25 minutes, or until it is hot and bubbly.
Can I use turkey bacon instead of regular bacon?
Yes, turkey bacon can be used in place of regular bacon in this recipe.
