For an extra layer of flavor, consider adding a pinch of red pepper flakes to the crushed tomatoes. Feel free to experiment with different types of pasta, such as penne or rotini. To prevent the pasta from drying out during baking, you can cover the baking dish with aluminum foil for the first 15 minutes, then remove the foil for the remaining baking time. If you don't have Velveeta, you can substitute it with a blend of cheddar and Monterey Jack cheese.
Easy 4-Ingredient Pasta Bake
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PREP TIME10 mins
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COOK TIME45 mins
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TOTAL TIME55 mins
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SERVING8 People
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VIEWS10
Indulge in the comforting simplicity of this pasta bake, where smoky bacon, tangy crushed tomatoes, and creamy cheese unite in perfect harmony. A versatile dish that effortlessly transitions from a satisfying main course to a delightful side, perfect for any occasion.
Ingridients
Adjust Servings
Nutrition
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Carbohydrate54 g
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Cholesterol66 mg
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Fiber4 g
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Protein26 g
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Saturated Fat11 g
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Sodium1278 mg
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Sugar4 g
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Fat23 g
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Unsaturated Fat0 g
Follow The Directions
01
StepPreheat oven to 350 degrees F (175 degrees C). (5 minutes)
02
StepBring a large pot of lightly salted water to a rolling boil. Add cavatappi pasta and cook, stirring occasionally, until al dente, approximately 9-10 minutes. Drain well, reserving about 1/2 cup of pasta water.
03
StepWhile the pasta is cooking, place bacon in a large skillet and cook over medium heat, turning occasionally, until rendered and slightly crisp, about 8-10 minutes. Remove bacon from skillet and drain on paper towels. Once cool enough to handle, chop into small, bite-sized lardons. Reserve 2 tablespoons of bacon fat in the skillet.
04
StepIn the same skillet with the reserved bacon fat, gently warm the crushed tomatoes over low heat for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally. This helps to deepen their flavor.
05
StepIn a large bowl, combine the cooked pasta, crispy bacon lardons, warmed crushed tomatoes, and cubed processed cheese. Add a splash of the reserved pasta water if needed to create a creamier consistency. Mix well until the cheese begins to melt and coat the pasta.
06
StepTransfer the pasta mixture to a greased 9x13 inch baking dish. Spread evenly.
07
StepBake in the preheated oven until hot, bubbly, and lightly golden brown on top, approximately 25-30 minutes. Let stand for 5 minutes before serving.
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Britney Keebler
Jul 2, 2025This recipe is so easy and delicious! My family loves it!
Dallin Cummerata
Jul 1, 2025I made this for a potluck, and it was a huge hit! Everyone asked for the recipe.
Andres Glover
Jun 28, 2025I was skeptical about using processed cheese, but it melts perfectly and creates a creamy sauce. I'll definitely make this again!
Donald Powlowski
Jun 21, 2025I found that the cheese wasn't melting evenly. Next time, I'll try shredding it instead of cubing it.
Antonina Crist
Jun 19, 2025Quick, easy, and satisfying! Just what I needed for a busy weeknight.
Ashlynn Satterfield
Jun 19, 2025I doubled the recipe and baked it in a larger dish. It worked perfectly!
Clementine Simonis
Jun 18, 2025I added some garlic powder and Italian seasoning to the sauce, and it was fantastic!
Louvenia Greenfelder
Jun 16, 2025Simple ingredients, amazing results!
Demetris Sengermclaughlin
Jun 14, 2025A great base recipe that's easy to customize. I swapped the bacon for Italian sausage and it was amazing.
Frederic Williamson
Jun 13, 2025This is a great comfort food dish!