A creamy, cheesy pasta bake loaded with tender broccoli, savory bacon, and a rich homemade cheese sauce. Perfect for a cozy family dinner or meal prep for the week.
Serves: 4 people | Time: 30 minutes
Ingredients
Pasta and Vegetables:
- 300 g rigatoni pasta
- 1 head of broccoli, cut into small florets
- 200 g sliced leek
Cheese Sauce:
- 50 g unsalted butter
- 50 g all-purpose flour
- 500 ml semi-skimmed milk
- 250 g grated cheese (e.g., cheddar)
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 250 g smoked bacon strips
Instructions
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Cook the Pasta and Broccoli
- Preheat the oven to 200°C (390°F).
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the rigatoni according to package instructions.
- During the last 2 minutes of cooking, add the broccoli florets to the pot. Drain and set aside.
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Prepare the Bacon and Leek
- In a skillet, cook the bacon strips over medium heat for about 4–5 minutes until crispy.
- Add the sliced leek and cook for another 4 minutes, stirring occasionally until softened. Remove from heat.
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Make the Cheese Sauce
- In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat.
- Stir in the flour to form a roux and cook for 3–4 minutes, stirring constantly to avoid burning.
- Gradually whisk in the milk, a little at a time, allowing the sauce to thicken before adding more.
- Once all the milk is incorporated and the sauce is smooth, stir in 150 g of the grated cheese until melted.
- Season with salt and black pepper to taste.
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Combine and Assemble
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked pasta, broccoli, bacon, leek, and cheese sauce. Mix until evenly coated.
- Transfer the mixture to a greased baking dish and spread evenly.
- Top with the remaining grated cheese.
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Bake
- Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 10 minutes, or until the cheese on top is golden and bubbly.
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Serve
- Allow the casserole to cool for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy this creamy, comforting dish!
Tips
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Vegetarian Option: Substitute the bacon with plant-based alternatives or omit it for a vegetarian version.
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Extra Crunch: For a crispy topping, sprinkle panko breadcrumbs mixed with a bit of melted butter on top before baking.
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Cheese Variations: Mix different types of cheese like mozzarella, Gruyère, or Parmesan for a more complex flavor.
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Make Ahead: This casserole can be assembled in advance and stored in the fridge for up to 24 hours before baking.