Cheddar Bacon Penne Pasta

By theresaoneil

A touch of bacon is what makes this pasta recipe perfect. A blend of smokey bacon with sharp cheese are great complements. Serve as a side with chicken or pork.

Ingredients

• 1 cup uncooked penne pasta
• 1/4 cup onion, chopped
• 1/4 teaspoon garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon butter
• 4 1/2 teaspoons all-purpose flour
• 1 cup 2% milk
• 1 1/2 cups cheddar cheese, shredded, divided, about 6 ounces
• 1 bacon strip, cooked and crumbled

Preparation

Step 1

Preheat oven to 350°F.

Cook pasta according to package directions.

Meanwhile, in a small nonstick skillet coated with cooking spray, saute onion until tender. Add garlic; cook 1 minute longer. Set aside.

In a small saucepan, melt butter. Stir in flour until smooth; gradually add milk. Bring to a boil; cook and stir for 1-2 minutes or until thickened. Stir in 1 cup cheese until melted.

Drain pasta. Add pasta, bacon and onion mixture to the sauce; stir to coat. Transfer to a 3-cup baking dish coated with cooking spray. Sprinkle with remaining cheese.

Bake, uncovered, at 350°F for 15-20 minutes or until cheese is melted.
Yield: 2 servings.