Rocky Mountain Cheesy Pasta

Ingredients

In the original Hungarian Túrós csusza, the pasta is typically topped with cottage cheese and bacon. However, in this Rocky Mountain adaptation, we have replaced the cottage cheese with a creamy cheese sauce and added fresh herbs to enhance the flavors. Additionally, we have incorporated the smoky flavor of bacon into the dish to give it a distinct Rocky Mountain twist. We alse have the original recipe for Túrós csusza, so you can check it out.

• 8 oz (225g) pasta 8 oz (225g) pasta
• 6 slices of bacon, cooked and crumbled 6 slices of bacon, cooked and crumbled
• 1 cup (240ml) heavy cream 1 cup (240ml) heavy cream
• 1 cup (240ml) milk 1 cup (240ml) milk
• 2 cups (200g) shredded cheddar cheese 2 cups (200g) shredded cheddar cheese
• 1/4 cup (30g) grated Parmesan cheese 1/4 cup (30g) grated Parmesan cheese
• 2 tablespoons (28g) butter 2 tablespoons (28g) butter
• 2 tablespoons (16g) all-purpose flour 2 tablespoons (16g) all-purpose flour
• 1/2 teaspoon salt 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley, for garnish 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley, for garnish

Nutrition

• Calories (kcal / KJ): 550 kcal / 2300 KJ
• Fat (total, saturated): 35g, 20g
• Carbohydrates (total, sugars): 40g, 3g
• Protein: 20g
• Fiber: 2g
• Salt: 1.5g

Preparation

1. 1.
   Cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. 2.
   In a large saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the flour and whisk until smooth.
3. 3.
   Gradually pour in the milk and heavy cream, whisking constantly to avoid lumps.
4. 4.
   Cook the sauce for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it thickens.
5. 5.
   Reduce the heat to low and add the shredded cheddar cheese and Parmesan cheese. Stir until melted and smooth.
6. 6.
   Season the sauce with salt and black pepper.
7. 7.
   Add the cooked pasta to the sauce and toss until well coated.
8. 8.
   Serve the Rocky Mountain Cheesy Pasta in individual bowls, topped with crumbled bacon and chopped fresh parsley.

Treat your ingredients with care...

• Pasta — Cook the pasta until al dente to ensure it retains a slight bite and doesn't become mushy.
• Cheddar cheese — Use a good quality cheddar cheese for a rich and flavorful sauce.
• Bacon — Cook the bacon until crispy and crumble it for a crunchy texture in the dish.
• Fresh parsley — Chop the parsley just before serving to maintain its vibrant color and fresh taste.
• Parmesan cheese — Use freshly grated Parmesan cheese for the best flavor.

Tips & Tricks

• For a spicier kick, add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the cheese sauce.
• Experiment with different types of cheese, such as Monterey Jack or Gouda, to customize the flavor.
• Add sautéed mushrooms or caramelized onions for extra depth of flavor.
• To make it a complete meal, serve with a side of roasted vegetables or a fresh green salad.
• Leftovers can be reheated in the oven for a few minutes to regain their crispy texture.

Serving advice

Serve the Rocky Mountain Cheesy Pasta hot, garnished with chopped fresh parsley. Pair it with a side of roasted vegetables or a green salad for a well-balanced meal.

Presentation advice

Present the Rocky Mountain Cheesy Pasta in individual bowls, allowing the golden pasta and creamy sauce to shine. Top each serving with crumbled bacon and a sprinkle of fresh parsley for an appetizing and visually appealing presentation.