Bacon Spaghetti Casserole

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Recipe: Bacon Spaghetti Casserole

History:

The concept of combining pasta with rich, creamy sauces and baking it in a casserole dish is a tradition that dates back to Italian-American cuisine. Baked pasta dishes like lasagna and baked ziti have been popular for centuries, but variations like Bacon Spaghetti Casserole have emerged more recently, especially in the United States. This dish takes inspiration from classic comfort foods, blending the idea of a spaghetti carbonara (a traditional Italian dish made with eggs, cheese, pancetta, and pepper) with the American love for casseroles. The result is a hearty, comforting meal that’s perfect for family dinners or potlucks.

Benefits:

  • Protein-Rich: The bacon and cheese provide a good source of protein, which is essential for muscle repair and growth.
  • Comfort Food: This dish is rich in carbohydrates from the spaghetti, providing energy and a feeling of fullness, making it a comforting meal, especially in cold weather.
  • Calcium Source: The cheese in this casserole is a good source of calcium, necessary for strong bones and teeth.
  • Crowd-Pleaser: The combination of bacon, pasta, and cheese is universally appealing, making this dish a hit at gatherings and family dinners.
  • Versatile: This recipe can be easily adapted to include vegetables or different types of cheese and meat, making it a versatile dish that can cater to various tastes.

Ingredients:

  • For the Casserole:
  • 12 oz spaghetti
  • 8 slices bacon, diced
  • 1 medium onion, finely chopped
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 cups marinara sauce
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • 2 large eggs, beaten
  • 1 1/2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • For Topping:
  • 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
  • 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • Additional cooked bacon pieces (optional)

Instructions:

  1. Preheat the Oven:
  • Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish and set it aside.
  1. Cook the Spaghetti:
  • Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the spaghetti and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
  1. Cook the Bacon:
  • In a large skillet, cook the diced bacon over medium heat until crispy. Remove the bacon with a slotted spoon and drain on paper towels, leaving the bacon fat in the skillet.
  1. Sauté the Vegetables:
  • In the same skillet, add the chopped onion and garlic to the bacon fat. Sauté until the onion is translucent and the garlic is fragrant, about 3-4 minutes.
  1. Prepare the Sauce:
  • Add the marinara sauce to the skillet with the onions and garlic, stirring to combine. Reduce the heat to low and stir in the heavy cream, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Simmer for 5 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.
  1. Mix the Casserole:
  • In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked spaghetti with the beaten eggs, cooked bacon, and the sauce mixture. Add the shredded mozzarella and grated Parmesan, mixing until everything is well combined.
  1. Assemble the Casserole:
  • Pour the spaghetti mixture into the prepared baking dish. Sprinkle the top with the additional mozzarella and Parmesan cheese. If desired, sprinkle extra cooked bacon pieces on top for added flavor.
  1. Bake:
  • Bake the casserole in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly, and the top is golden brown.
  1. Serve:
  • Remove the casserole from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before serving. Slice into portions and enjoy!

Method Tips:

  • Spaghetti: To prevent the spaghetti from sticking together after cooking, you can toss it with a little olive oil before mixing it with the sauce.
  • Bacon: For a healthier version, you can use turkey bacon or pancetta. You can also add cooked, crumbled sausage or ground beef for more protein.
  • Cheese: Feel free to experiment with different types of cheese. Cheddar, fontina, or gouda would be delicious alternatives or additions to the mozzarella and Parmesan.
  • Vegetables: Add sautéed vegetables like spinach, mushrooms, or bell peppers to the casserole for extra nutrients and flavor.
  • Make-Ahead: This casserole can be assembled ahead of time and refrigerated until ready to bake. Just increase the baking time by about 10 minutes if baking from cold.

Conclusion:

Bacon Spaghetti Casserole is the perfect blend of savory bacon, creamy cheese, and tender pasta, all baked to perfection in a comforting casserole. This dish brings together the best elements of traditional Italian pasta dishes with the convenience and comfort of an American casserole. It’s a versatile, crowd-pleasing recipe that’s sure to become a favorite in your home, offering a hearty meal that satisfies on every level.

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