Bacon-Swiss Penne

  Dinner

I was fortunate to inherit my grandmother’s recipe book, which includes the recipe for this rich and cheesy casserole. I’ve been eating it for years and still can’t get enough.

Bacon-Swiss Penne

Average Rating: 3.3

TOTAL TIME: Prep: 35 min. Bake: 30 min.
YIELD: 10 servings.

Ingredients

  • 12 ounces uncooked penne pasta
  • 13 bacon strips
  • 1-1/2 pounds boneless skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch cubes
  • 3 tablespoons butter
  • 6 green onions, chopped
  • 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
  • 4 cups 2% milk
  • 3 cups shredded cheddar cheese
  • 1-1/2 cups shredded Swiss cheese
  • 1-1/2 cups frozen peas, thawed
  • 3/4 teaspoon pepper
  • 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme

  • TOPPING:
  • 3/4 cup dry bread crumbs
  • 2 tablespoons butter, melted

Instructions

  • 1. Cook penne according to package directions.
  • 2. Meanwhile, in a large skillet, cook bacon in batches over medium heat until crisp. Remove to paper towels; drain, reserving 4 teaspoons drippings. Crumble bacon and set aside.
  • 3. Saute chicken in butter and drippings until no longer pink. Add onions; cook 1 minute longer. Stir in flour until blended; gradually add milk. Bring to a boil; cook and stir for 2 minutes or until thickened. Stir in the cheeses, peas, pepper, thyme and bacon.
  • 4. Drain penne; add to chicken mixture and toss to coat. Transfer to a greased 13x9-in. baking dish. In a small bowl, combine bread crumbs and butter; sprinkle over top. Bake, uncovered, at 350° for 30-35 minutes or until golden brown.

Nutrition Facts

1 cup: 614 calories, 32g fat (18g saturated fat), 124mg cholesterol, 651mg sodium, 43g carbohydrate (8g sugars, 3g fiber), 39g protein.

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