Introduction
Indulge in a warm and comforting dish that brings together the rich flavors of creamy butternut squash and crispy bacon in a delightful pasta bake. This recipe combines cavatappi pasta, rotisserie chicken, and a blend of fragrant herbs, making it perfect for a family dinner or a cozy gathering. With a quick cooking time and simple ingredients, you can create a satisfying meal that will leave everyone asking for seconds.
Detailed Ingredients with measures
12 ounces cavatappi pasta
3 slices bacon, diced
3 tablespoons unsalted butter
4 cloves garlic, minced
2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
1½ cups whole milk
1½ cups butternut squash puree
1½ tablespoons finely chopped fresh sage
1½ teaspoons Dijon mustard
¾ cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
¼ cup heavy cream
Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
2 cups diced rotisserie chicken
Prep Time
15 minutes
Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Total Time: 40 minutes
Yield: 4 servings
This recipe promises to satisfy your cravings with its creamy sauce and comforting texture. Enjoy cooking and savoring this delightful dish!
Detailed Directions and Instructions
Cook the Pasta
Cook the cavatappi pasta in a large pot of boiling salted water according to the package instructions. Once cooked, drain well and set aside.
Cook the Bacon
In a large skillet over medium-high heat, cook the diced bacon until it is brown and crispy, which should take about 6-8 minutes. After cooking, drain the excess fat and transfer the bacon to a paper towel-lined plate to absorb any remaining grease.
Melt the Butter and Add Garlic
Using the same skillet, melt the unsalted butter. Once melted, add the minced garlic and cook, stirring frequently, until fragrant. This should take about 1-2 minutes.
Create the Roux
Whisk in the all-purpose flour into the butter and garlic mixture. Cook it for about 1 minute until it becomes lightly browned.
Add Milk and Squash Puree
Gradually whisk in the whole milk, continuously cooking and whisking until fully incorporated, approximately 1-2 minutes. Next, stir in the butternut squash puree, finely chopped sage, and Dijon mustard. Bring this mixture to a simmer, stirring occasionally, and allow it to thicken slightly, which should take about 5 minutes.
Incorporate Cheese and Cream
Stir in the freshly grated Parmesan cheese and heavy cream until everything is fully incorporated. Season the mixture with kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper according to your taste preferences.
Add Pasta and Chicken
Add the cooked cavatappi pasta and diced rotisserie chicken to the skillet. Gently toss to combine all the ingredients thoroughly.
Serve
Serve the dish immediately, garnished with the cooked bacon on top and additional sage if desired.
Notes
Storage
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 2-3 days. Reheat gently on the stove, adding a splash of milk if needed to loosen the sauce.
Variations
Feel free to customize this recipe by adding vegetables such as spinach or peas for added nutrition and flavor.
Cheese Options
For a different flavor profile, consider using other cheeses such as Gruyère or cheddar in place of Parmesan.
Sage Substitute
If fresh sage is unavailable, dried sage can be used, but reduce the quantity to about 1/2 tablespoon as it is more concentrated.
Cook techniques
Cooking Pasta
Cooking pasta involves boiling it in salted water until it reaches al dente, meaning it’s firm to the bite. This is essential for ensuring the pasta holds its shape when mixed with sauces.
Rendering Bacon
Rendering bacon entails cooking it over medium-high heat until the fat is rendered and the bacon is crispy. This process adds flavor to the dish and creates a crispy texture.
Sautéing Garlic
Sautéing garlic involves cooking minced garlic in butter over medium heat. This technique releases its aromatic qualities, enhancing the flavor of the overall dish.
Making a Roux
A roux is made by whisking together flour and fat (in this case, butter) while cooking it until it turns lightly golden. This thickens sauces and gives a rich flavor to the dish.
Creating a Cream Sauce
Creating a cream sauce consists of whisking in liquids, in this case, milk and butternut squash puree, into a roux, and cooking until it thickens. It adds creaminess and richness to the dish.
Incorporating Cheese
Incorporating cheese involves adding grated cheese, like Parmesan, into a sauce and stirring until it melts fully, contributing a savory flavor and creamy texture.
Tossing Ingredients
Tossing ingredients means gently mixing together the pasta, sauce, and chicken to ensure an even coating without breaking the pasta.
Garnishing the Dish
Garnishing the dish involves adding cooked bacon and fresh sage on top before serving, enhancing the visual appeal and adding extra flavor.
FAQ
Can I use a different type of pasta?
Yes, you can substitute cavatappi with other pasta shapes such as penne or fusilli, but cooking times may vary.
How can I make this dish vegetarian?
You can replace the bacon with a plant-based bacon alternative and omit the rotisserie chicken for a vegetarian version.
Can I use canned butternut squash puree?
Yes, canned butternut squash puree is a convenient option and works well in this recipe.
What can I use instead of Parmesan cheese?
You can substitute Parmesan with Pecorino Romano or nutritional yeast for a dairy-free option.
How do I store leftovers?
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 3-4 days. Reheat on the stove, adding a splash of milk if the sauce is too thick.
Can I freeze this dish?
Yes, you can freeze the dish, but the texture may change slightly when reheated. It’s best to freeze before adding the cream.
What can be used instead of heavy cream?
You may substitute heavy cream with half-and-half, whole milk, or a non-dairy cream alternative for a lighter dish.
Conclusion
The combination of cavatappi pasta, crispy bacon, creamy butternut squash puree, and tender rotisserie chicken creates a rich and comforting dish that is perfect for any occasion. The garlic and sage add depth of flavor, while the Parmesan cheese brings a delightful richness. This recipe not only stands out for its taste but also for its heartiness, making it a favorite among family and friends.
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