Pasta with bacon and mushrooms in a cheese basket

Pasta Recipe with Bacon and Mushrooms in a Cheese Basket

Preparation time: 15 minutes
Baking time: 10 minutes
Total time: 25 minutes
Number of servings: 4

Welcome to my kitchen, where every recipe becomes a true culinary adventure! Today, I will present to you a fascinating recipe for pasta with bacon and mushrooms, served in a crispy cheese basket. This recipe is not only simple but also full of flavors and textures that will delight even the most discerning palates.

A bit of history: Cheese baskets are a culinary innovation that has gained popularity in recent years, being an excellent way to add flavor and presentation to your dishes. Whether you want to impress your guests or simply indulge yourself, this recipe will bring you many applause!

Ingredients

For the cheese basket:
- 50 g grated cheese (choose a good quality cheese for a more intense flavor)

For the pasta:
- 2 l water
- a pinch of salt
- 300 g pasta (preferably penne or fusilli to hold the sauce)
- 100 g bacon (diced)
- 4 mushrooms (thinly sliced)
- 3 tablespoons Greek yogurt or sour cream (for a creamy touch)
- 100 g grated cheese (to mix with the pasta)
- salt, pepper to taste
- oregano (or other preferred herbs)
- sun-dried tomatoes (about 50 g, chopped)
- olive oil (for sautéing)

Instructions

Step 1: Preparing the cheese basket
Preheat the oven to 180°C. On a baking sheet, sprinkle the grated cheese in a round shape with a diameter of about 15 cm. Place the baking sheet in the oven and bake for 5-7 minutes until the cheese melts and starts to turn golden. Once you have a crispy crust, remove the sheet from the oven and, using a spatula, place the cheese basket over a small bowl (or a dish) to give it the desired shape. Allow it to cool completely so that it becomes firm.

Step 2: Boiling the pasta
In a large pot, bring the 2 liters of water to a boil. Add a pinch of salt, and when the water is boiling, add the pasta. Cook according to the package instructions until al dente. After cooking, drain and set aside.

Step 3: Preparing the filling
In a large skillet, add a splash of olive oil and heat it over medium heat. Add the diced bacon and cook until crispy. Then, add the sliced mushrooms and sun-dried tomatoes, continuing to cook everything together for 3-4 minutes until the mushrooms soften. Season with salt, pepper, and oregano to add flavor.

Step 4: Mixing the pasta
In a large bowl, combine the cooked pasta with the bacon and mushroom mixture. Add the Greek yogurt or sour cream and 100 g of grated cheese. Mix well to combine, ensuring the pasta is well coated with the creamy sauce.

Step 5: Assembling the dish
Carefully take the cheese basket from the bowl where it cooled. Gently place the pasta inside, taking care not to crush them. You can garnish with a few fresh basil leaves or a little grated cheese on top for extra presentation.

Step 6: Serving
Serve immediately so everyone can enjoy the crispy cheese basket. This recipe pairs perfectly with a glass of white wine or fresh lemonade to balance the rich flavors of the dish.

Practical tips:
- Choose a cheese with a strong flavor, such as smoked cheese or cheddar, to give a distinct note to the basket.
- If you want a healthier option, you can replace the bacon with grilled chicken or tofu for a vegetarian option.
- Experiment with other vegetables, such as zucchini or bell peppers, to add more colors and flavors.
- If you don’t have sun-dried tomatoes, you can replace them with olives or roasted peppers for a different taste.

Frequently asked questions:
1. Can I use whole grain pasta?
Yes, whole grain pasta is a healthy option and can be successfully used in this recipe.

2. How can I make the cheese basket bigger?
If you want a larger basket, simply use a larger amount of cheese and a bigger mold to shape it.

3. How can I store leftovers?
If there are leftover pasta, you can store them in the refrigerator in an airtight container for up to 2 days.

Calories and nutritional benefits:
This recipe contains approximately 450 calories per serving, depending on the ingredients used. The pasta provides essential carbohydrates, while the bacon and cheese add healthy proteins and fats. Additionally, mushrooms are rich in antioxidants and vitamins, contributing to a balanced diet.

I hope you enjoyed this captivating recipe and that you will try to recreate it at home. Cooking is an art, and each dish is an opportunity to express your creativity. I encourage everyone to experiment and add their personal touches. Enjoy your meal!