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Oven Baked 5-Ingredient BLT Pasta

A cozy baked pasta inspired by a classic BLT, made with crispy bacon, juicy tomatoes, melted mozzarella, and fresh lettuce added after baking for crunch. This easy casserole-style pasta is creamy, savory, and perfect for a casual family dinner.
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Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 50 minutes
Course Baked Dinner, Casserole, Family Dinner, Main Course, Pasta
Cuisine American
Servings 6 servings
Calories 465 kcal

Ingredients
  

  • 8 oz short pasta such as penne, rotini, or shells
  • 8 oz thick-cut bacon chopped into rough pieces
  • 2 cups cherry or grape tomatoes halved, or use well-drained diced tomatoes
  • 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese divided; mild cheddar may be substituted
  • 2 cups romaine or iceberg lettuce chopped and very well dried
  • salt and black pepper to taste
  • 1 to 2 tbsp milk optional, if the pasta looks dry
  • nonstick spray or oil for greasing the baking dish

Instructions
 

  • Preheat the oven to 375°F and grease a 9x13-inch baking dish.
  • Bring a large pot of generously salted water to a boil.
  • Cook the pasta for 2 minutes less than the package directions, then drain well.
  • Meanwhile, cook the chopped bacon in a large skillet over medium heat until crispy.
  • Transfer the bacon to a paper towel-lined plate, leaving a thin film of bacon grease in the skillet.
  • Add the halved tomatoes to the skillet and cook for 2–3 minutes, until slightly softened and juicy.
  • Season the tomatoes with a pinch of salt and black pepper.
  • In a large bowl, combine the drained pasta, crispy bacon, cooked tomatoes with their juices, and 1 1/2 cups mozzarella.
  • Stir well, adding 1–2 tablespoons of milk if the mixture looks dry. Taste and season as needed.
  • Spread the pasta mixture into the prepared baking dish and sprinkle with the remaining 1/2 cup mozzarella.
  • Cover loosely with foil and bake for 15 minutes.
  • Remove the foil and bake for another 10–15 minutes, until the cheese is melted, golden in spots, and the edges are bubbling.
  • Let the pasta rest for 5 minutes.
  • Scatter the chopped, well-dried lettuce over the top before serving, or gently fold it in for a slightly wilted finish.

Notes

Use diced tomatoes if needed, but drain them well before cooking. For extra BLT flavor, drizzle lightly with ranch or add a little cracked black pepper before serving.

Nutrition

Calories: 465kcal
Keyword bacon pasta bake, BLT pasta, easy casserole, mozzarella pasta, tomato pasta
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