Spinach and Artichoke Dip Pasta Recipe

Spinach and Artichoke Dip Pasta Recipe

Ingredients

• 1 pound penne pasta
• 8 ounces bacon ends & pieces, chopped
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 large onion, diced
• 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• 1/2 cup chicken broth
• 2 cups milk
• 1 (10-ounce) package frozen chopped spinach, defrosted and drained
• 1 (14-ounce) can artichoke hearts, chopped
• Few grates of fresh nutmeg
• Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
• 1 1/2 cups shredded pepper jack, divided
• 1 1/2 cups grated Parmesan, divided

Directions

1. Preheat broiler. Lightly oil a 9×13 baking dish or coat with nonstick spray.
2. In a large pot of boiling salted water, cook pasta according to package instructions; drain well.
3. Heat a large skillet over medium high heat. Add bacon and cook until brown and crispy, about 6-8 minutes. Transfer to a paper towel-lined plate; set aside.
4. Heat olive oil in a medium pot over medium low heat. Add garlic and onion, and cook, stirring frequently, until the onions begin to soften, about 3-4 minutes. Whisk in flour until lightly browned, about 1-2 minutes. Gradually whisk in chicken broth and cook, whisking constantly, until incorporated, about 1-2 minutes. Stir in milk and bring to a simmer.
5. Add spinach, artichoke and nutmeg and stir until the sauce has thickened and the vegetables are heated through, about 2-3 minutes; season with salt and pepper, to taste. Stir in 1 cup pepper jack and 1 cup Parmesan until smooth, about 1-2 minutes. Stir in penne and bacon.
6. Spread the penne mixture into the prepared baking dish. Sprinkle with remaining pepper jack and Parmesan. Place into oven and broil for 3-4 minutes, or until golden brown.

Serve immediately.
Makes 6 servings