This Canadian Bacon and Mozzarella Penne Pasta recipe is all about comfort. It combines the smoky flavor of Canadian bacon with creamy mozzarella, all tossed in a rich tomato sauce. The addition of penne pasta makes it a hearty dish that's perfect for any family dinner or gathering. It's easy to prepare and guarantees satisfaction in every bite.
Canadian Bacon may not be a regular in your fridge, but it's a star in this recipe. It's a type of back bacon that's often leaner than traditional bacon. It's available in most supermarkets, usually in the deli section. Fresh mozzarella is another key player in this recipe. Unlike the regular mozzarella you may be familiar with, fresh mozzarella is soft and creamy and can be found in the cheese aisle. Be sure to get tomatoes in thick puree too, this type of canned tomatoes provides a great flavor base and saves you from having to puree them yourself.
Ingredients for Canadian Bacon and Mozzarella Penne Pasta
Fresh Mozzarella: Known for its high moisture content and creamy texture, it helps to create a rich and creamy sauce for the pasta.
Garlic: Yields a spicy, pungent flavor that gives the dish a savory depth.
Olive oil: Used for cooking and for creating the mozzarella mixture. It adds a distinct flavor to the dish.
Salt: Enhances the flavors of the other ingredients.
Red pepper flakes: Adds a spicy kick to the dish.
Fresh parsley: Provides a refreshing, aromatic note to balance out the rich flavors.
Onion: Gives sweetness and depth of flavor to the sauce.
Tomatoes in thick puree: Adds a rich and tangy flavor to the sauce.
Water: Used to adjust the consistency of the sauce.
Penne: A tube-shaped pasta that holds up well to hearty sauces.
Canadian Bacon: Adds a smoky and meaty flavor to the dish.
One reader, Andrea Kearns says:
This Canadian bacon and mozzarella penne pasta recipe is a game-changer! The combination of flavors is simply divine, and the dish is so easy to make. The creamy mozzarella and savory Canadian bacon create a perfect harmony. It's now a family favorite in our household!
Techniques Required for Making Canadian Bacon and Mozzarella Penne Pasta
Prepare the mozzarella mixture: Combine the mozzarella, garlic, olive oil, salt, red pepper flakes, and parsley in a small bowl.
Cook the onion: In a large saucepan, heat the oil over low heat and cook the onion until translucent.
Make the tomato sauce: Add the tomatoes, water, salt, and red pepper flakes to the saucepan. Simmer covered for 15 minutes.
Cook the penne: Boil the penne in salted water until just done, about 13 minutes. Reserve 1/4 cup of the pasta-cooking water.
Toss the pasta: Combine the cooked pasta with the tomato sauce, mozzarella mixture, and Canadian bacon. If the sauce is too thick, add some of the reserved pasta-cooking water.
How To Make Canadian Bacon and Mozzarella Penne Pasta
Loaded with juicy Canadian bacon, gooey mozzarella, and coated in a luscious tomato sauce; this penne pasta makes a rich and belly-filling meal!
Serves:
Ingredients
- ½lbfresh mozzarella
- 1garlic clove
- 2½tbspolive oil
- ¾tspsalt
- red pepper flakes,dried
- ¼cupfresh parsley,chopped
- 1small onion
- 1½cuptomatoes in thick puree,(one 15 oz can), canned, crushed
- ¼cupwater
- ¾lbpenne
- ½lbCanadian bacon
Instructions
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In a small bowl, combine the mozzarella, garlic, 1½ tablespoons of the oil, ¼ teaspoon of the salt, ¼ teaspoon of red-pepper flakes and the parsley.
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In a large saucepan, heat the remaining 1 tablespoon oil over moderately low heat. Cook the onion for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until translucent.
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Add the tomatoes, water, the remaining ½ teaspoon of salt and a pinch of red-pepper flakes. Reduce the heat and simmer, covered, for 15 minutes.
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In a large pot of boiling, salted water, cook the pasta for about 13 minutes until just done. Reserve ¼ cup of the pasta-cooking water. Drain.
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Toss the pasta with the tomato sauce, mozzarella mixture and Canadian bacon. If the sauce seems too thick, add some of the reserved pasta-cooking water.
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Serve warm, and enjoy!
Nutrition
- Calories: 642.68kcal
- Fat: 24.12g
- Saturated Fat: 9.40g
- Trans Fat: 0.00g
- Monounsaturated Fat: 10.69g
- Polyunsaturated Fat: 2.12g
- Carbohydrates: 69.77g
- Fiber: 3.83g
- Sugar: 5.62g
- Protein: 35.98g
- Cholesterol: 72.01mg
- Sodium: 788.36mg
- Calcium: 324.27mg
- Potassium: 813.18mg
- Iron: 2.08mg
- Vitamin A: 140.75µg
- Vitamin C: 14.17mg
Technique Tip for Perfecting Canadian Bacon and Mozzarella Penne Pasta
When preparing the mozzarella mixture, it's important to let it sit for a while after combining the ingredients. This allows the flavors to meld together, enhancing the overall taste of the dish. Additionally, when cooking the pasta, make sure to stir it occasionally to prevent it from sticking together. Lastly, don't forget to reserve some pasta-cooking water before draining. This starchy water can help to thin out your sauce if it becomes too thick, ensuring a perfect consistency.
Time-Saving Tips for Preparing This Penne Pasta Recipe
Prep ahead: Chop vegetables, measure ingredients, and prepare the mozzarella mixture and tomato sauce in advance to save time during the cooking process.
Multitask: While the pasta is cooking, simultaneously prepare the tomato sauce and mozzarella mixture to streamline the cooking process.
Use pre-sliced Canadian bacon: Opt for pre-sliced Canadian bacon to eliminate the need for slicing, saving time and effort during preparation.
One-pot cooking: Consider using a large pot to cook the pasta and prepare the sauce in the same pot, reducing the number of dishes and overall cooking time.
Quick cleanup: Clean as you go to minimize the post-cooking cleanup, making the entire process more efficient and enjoyable.
Efficient organization: Organize your ingredients and cooking tools beforehand to ensure a smooth and efficient cooking experience.
Time-saving tools: Utilize kitchen tools such as a food processor or pre-chopped ingredients to expedite the preparation process.
Streamlined cooking: Plan the cooking process strategically to ensure that each component is ready to be combined at the right time, minimizing idle time in the kitchen.
Substitute Ingredients For Canadian Bacon and Mozzarella Penne Pasta Recipe
mozzarella - Substitute with provolone: Provolone has a similar mild and creamy flavor to mozzarella, making it a great substitute in this recipe.
garlic - Substitute with shallots: Shallots have a mild onion-garlic flavor that can add depth to the dish without being overpowering.
olive oil - Substitute with grapeseed oil: Grapeseed oil has a neutral flavor and high smoke point, making it a good substitute for olive oil in this recipe.
salt - Substitute with sea salt: Sea salt has a similar saltiness to regular salt but can add a subtle briny flavor to the dish.
red pepper flakes - Substitute with paprika: Paprika can add a mild heat and smokiness to the dish, similar to red pepper flakes.
parsley - Substitute with basil: Basil can add a fresh and aromatic flavor to the dish, complementing the other ingredients well.
onion - Substitute with shallot: Shallots have a milder and sweeter flavor compared to onions, adding a subtle depth to the dish.
tomatoes - Substitute with canned diced tomatoes: Canned diced tomatoes in thick puree can provide a similar texture and flavor to fresh tomatoes for the sauce.
penne - Substitute with rigatoni: Rigatoni has a similar shape and texture to penne, making it a suitable substitute in this recipe.
canadian bacon - Substitute with smoked turkey: Smoked turkey has a similar smoky and savory flavor to Canadian bacon, making it a good alternative for this pasta dish.
Presenting Canadian Bacon and Mozzarella Penne Pasta
Elevate the plating: When presenting the dish, focus on creating a visually appealing arrangement. Use the vibrant colors of the tomatoes in thick puree and the fresh parsley to add a pop of color to the plate. Consider using white plates to make the dish stand out.
Incorporate height: Create a sense of dimension by layering the penne pasta and Canadian bacon. Use a circular mold to stack the pasta neatly and top it with the Canadian bacon to add height to the dish.
Garnish with fresh herbs: Sprinkle freshly chopped parsley over the dish just before serving to add a burst of freshness and a touch of elegance.
Use a minimalist approach: Embrace simplicity by focusing on the natural beauty of the ingredients. Allow the flavors and textures of the dish to take center stage without overwhelming the plate with excessive garnishes.
Consider the plate shape: Opt for a plate that complements the shape of the penne pasta. A wide, shallow bowl or a rectangular plate can provide a modern and sophisticated presentation.
Emphasize symmetry: Arrange the components of the dish with precision, creating a balanced and symmetrical presentation that showcases attention to detail.
Highlight the mozzarella: Showcase the creamy texture and delicate flavor of the fresh mozzarella by placing it strategically on the plate, allowing it to be a focal point of the presentation.
Add a touch of elegance with a drizzle: Finish the dish with a delicate drizzle of high-quality olive oil to enhance the flavors and add a touch of sophistication to the presentation.
Essential Tools for Making Penne Pasta with Canadian Bacon and Mozzarella
Food processor: A food processor is a versatile kitchen tool that can be used for chopping, slicing, shredding, and pureeing ingredients. It's great for quickly and efficiently processing large quantities of food.
Mixing bowl: A mixing bowl is an essential kitchen tool for combining ingredients, whisking, and stirring. It comes in various sizes and materials, and is used for a wide range of cooking and baking tasks.
Storing and Freezing Leftover Penne Pasta
- To store leftover canadian bacon and mozzarella penne pasta, allow it to cool completely to room temperature before transferring it to an airtight container. Refrigerate for up to 3-4 days.
- When reheating, add a splash of water or olive oil to the pasta to help restore moisture and prevent it from drying out. Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop until heated through.
- To freeze, portion the cooled pasta into freezer-safe containers or resealable bags. Remove as much air as possible to prevent freezer burn. Label and date the containers before placing them in the freezer.
- Frozen canadian bacon and mozzarella penne pasta can be stored for up to 2-3 months. To thaw, transfer the container to the refrigerator and allow it to defrost overnight.
- When ready to serve, reheat the thawed pasta in the microwave or on the stovetop, stirring occasionally. Add a small amount of water or olive oil to help revive the sauce and prevent the pasta from drying out.
- If the sauce appears separated after thawing, gently stir the pasta while reheating to help reincorporate the ingredients. Adjust the seasoning with salt, pepper, or additional red pepper flakes if needed.
How To Reheat Leftover Penne Pasta
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the leftover canadian bacon and mozzarella penne pasta in an oven-safe dish and cover it with aluminum foil. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until the pasta is heated through and the cheese is melted. This method helps to retain the moisture in the pasta and prevents it from drying out.
For a quicker option, you can reheat the pasta in the microwave. Transfer the leftovers to a microwave-safe bowl and add a splash of water or olive oil to help keep the pasta moist. Cover the bowl with a microwave-safe lid or plastic wrap and microwave on high for 1-2 minutes, stirring halfway through. Check the temperature and continue heating in 30-second intervals until the pasta is heated to your liking.
If you prefer a crispy texture, you can reheat the pasta on the stovetop. Heat a large skillet over medium heat and add a small amount of olive oil or butter. Add the leftover pasta to the skillet and toss it around until it's heated through and slightly crispy on the edges. This method works well if you like your pasta with a bit of a crunch.
For a more flavorful reheating experience, consider adding some fresh ingredients to the leftover pasta. Sauté some minced garlic and chopped onion in a pan with a little olive oil before adding the pasta. You can also toss in some fresh herbs like basil or parsley to brighten up the flavors. A sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese on top can also enhance the overall taste of the reheated dish.
Random Fact about Canadian Bacon and Mozzarella Penne Pasta
Canadian bacon and mozzarella penne pasta is a delicious and hearty dish that combines the rich flavors of mozzarella, Canadian bacon, and a spicy tomato sauce. This dish is a perfect comfort food and is a great option for a cozy night in. Additionally, the combination of mozzarella and Canadian bacon provides a unique and savory flavor profile that is sure to satisfy your taste buds. Whether you're a fan of Italian cuisine or simply looking for a new pasta recipe to try, this Canadian bacon and mozzarella penne pasta is a must-try dish for any food enthusiast.
Is Making Penne Pasta with Canadian Bacon and Mozzarella Economical for Home Cooking?
This Canadian bacon and mozzarella penne pasta recipe is quite cost-effective for a household. The ingredients, such as penne pasta, Canadian bacon, and mozzarella, are relatively affordable and easily accessible. The dish offers a satisfying and flavorful meal for a family of four at an approximate cost of $15. The combination of ingredients creates a delightful and hearty pasta dish that is both budget-friendly and delicious. Overall, I would rate this recipe an 8 for its affordability and taste.
Is This Penne Pasta Dish Healthy or Unhealthy?
The canadian bacon and mozzarella penne pasta recipe is a delicious combination of flavors, but it may not be the healthiest option. Here's why:
- The recipe includes a significant amount of cheese (1/2 lb fresh mozzarella), which is high in saturated fat and calories.
- Canadian bacon, while leaner than regular bacon, is still a processed meat that contains sodium and nitrates.
- The recipe calls for 2 1/2 tablespoons of olive oil, which is a healthy fat but can add up in calories quickly.
- The pasta itself is a refined carbohydrate, which can cause blood sugar spikes and provide fewer nutrients compared to whole grain alternatives.
To make this recipe healthier, consider the following suggestions:
- Reduce the amount of mozzarella cheese by half and opt for a low-fat variety to cut down on saturated fat and calories.
- Replace the canadian bacon with a leaner protein source, such as grilled chicken breast or shrimp, to reduce the intake of processed meats.
- Use whole wheat penne pasta instead of regular penne to increase the fiber content and provide a slower release of energy.
- Add more vegetables to the dish, such as sautéed spinach, bell peppers, or zucchini, to boost the nutrient profile and add volume without significantly increasing calories.
- Reduce the amount of olive oil used in the recipe by half and supplement with a splash of pasta water to maintain the desired consistency.
Editor's Thoughts on This Penne Pasta Dish
The combination of fresh mozzarella, Canadian bacon, and a spicy tomato sauce creates a delightful and comforting dish. The flavors are well-balanced, and the addition of red pepper flakes adds a nice kick. The use of penne pasta allows the sauce to cling to each piece, ensuring a flavorful bite every time. The recommendation of a crisp red wine based on the barbera grape is spot on, as it will complement the spicy, tomatoey sauce beautifully. Overall, this Canadian bacon and mozzarella penne pasta recipe is a winner and is sure to impress anyone who tries it.
Enhance Your Canadian Bacon and Mozzarella Penne Pasta Recipe with These Unique Side Dishes:
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Why trust this Canadian Bacon and Mozzarella Penne Pasta Recipe:
This recipe offers a delightful combination of mozzarella and Canadian bacon that will tantalize your taste buds. The use of fresh ingredients such as tomatoes and parsley ensures a burst of vibrant flavors. The addition of garlic and red pepper flakes brings a delightful kick to the dish. The careful instructions and use of pasta-cooking water to adjust the sauce consistency guarantee a perfect result. Trust in the harmony of these quality ingredients to create a memorable dining experience.
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