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**Introduction**
Bring the flavors of Italy to your kitchen with our Cheesy Bacon Spaghetti Bake. This creamy noodle casserole bursts with the irresistible combination of cheese, bacon, and spaghetti that’ll have everyone asking for seconds. With a short prep and bake time, this dish is perfect for anyone who loves comfort food. Make your midweek dinners special with this tasty treat!
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**Why Make This Recipe**
This recipe is the epitome of comfort food, combining the rich flavors of cheese and bacon with the comforting familiarity of spaghetti. Not only is it easy to make, but it’s also perfect for serving at family dinners or gatherings with friends. With a generous serving size of 6, there are plenty to go around, and everyone is bound to love this creamy, cheesy delight.
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**How to Make Cheesy Bacon Spaghetti Bake**
***Ingredients:***
– 8 oz spaghetti
– 6 slices bacon, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 cups heavy cream
– 1 1/2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/2 tsp salt
– 1/4 tsp pepper
– 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
– 2 tbsp chopped parsley for garnish
***Directions:***
Delicious food is all about the right steps. Follow ours carefully, and you’ll have a casserole to remember!
1. Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This allows for even cooking later on.
2. Cook the spaghetti according to the package instructions until it’s al dente, then drain it and set aside. It should be firm but cooked through.
3. Cook the chopped bacon in a skillet over medium heat until crispy. The fat will render out and flavor what’s next to come.
4. Use the same skillet to sauté the minced garlic until it turns fragrant.
5. Add the heavy cream to the skillet, reduce the heat, then stir in the mozzarella and Parmesan cheeses until melted and smooth.
6. Season the mixture with salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes to your taste.
7. Combine the cooked spaghetti, bacon, and the creamy cheese sauce mixture in a large bowl and mix well.
8. Prepare a 9×13 inch baking dish by greasing it before transferring the mixture in.
9. Bake for 25 minutes, or until the top turns bubbly and golden.
10. Finalize by sprinkling chopped parsley over the baked casserole before serving.
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**How to Serve Cheesy Bacon Spaghetti Bake**
To maximize enjoyment of your Cheesy Bacon Spaghetti Bake, serve it hot and bubbly straight from the oven. A side salad or some garlic bread can complement this hearty casserole perfectly, rounding out your meal.
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**How to Store Cheesy Bacon Spaghetti Bake**
To store leftovers, allow the casserole to cool before transferring them to an airtight container. They can be refrigerated for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to eat, just reheat in the microwave or oven until hot and bubbly.
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**Tips to Make Cheesy Bacon Spaghetti Bake**
Add even more flavor to your Cheesy Bacon Spaghetti Bake by tossing in some extra ingredients. Cooked chicken, diced tomatoes, sautéed onions, or mushrooms all work great.
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**FAQs**
– Can I use a different type of pasta for this recipe?
Yes, feel free to substitute spaghetti with other pasta types. Rigatoni or penne works well due to their similar cooking times and ability to carry the sauce.
– Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Absolutely, you can assemble this dish a day in advance. Store it covered in the refrigerator and bake it just before serving.
– What can I substitute for heavy cream?
You can use a mixture of milk and butter as a substitute for heavy cream. This will still provide a rich and creamy texture.