Ingredients
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1 lb (.45kg) Pastaany kind or shape
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2 Chicken Breasts
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12 oz (340gm) Baconor about 8 slices
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1 pint (400gm) Cherry Tomatoesor grape tomatoes
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2 Tbsp Olive Oil
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4 Tbsp Buttersalted or unsalted, with salted just adjust with seasoning
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1/4 cup All-Purpose Flour
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2 1/2 cups Whole Milkor 2 cups skim milk with 1/2 cup cream
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1 tsp Salt
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1/2 tsp Black Pepper
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4 cups shredded (16 oz / 453gm) Gouda Cheese
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1 cup shredded (4 oz / 113 gm) Cheddar CheeseI use sharp cheddar
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4 Shallots
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2 Garlic Cloves
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1 cup Panko Bread Crumbs (Plain)
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1/2 cup whole Fresh Basil Leaves
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1/4 cup shredded Fresh Parmesan Cheese
Directions
Steps
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1
Done
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Make the BaconPreheat the oven to 425°F / 218°C. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or use a bacon rack. Place the slices of bacon on the rack and bake for 20-25 minutes until crispy. Depending on your baking sheet, you may need to flip them and crisp the other side. Remove and let cool, then dice and set aside. |
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2
Done
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Roast the Cherry Tomatoes and ShallotsYou can actually do this at the same time and using the same baking sheet as the bacon if desired, or separate. Cut the cherry tomatoes or grape tomatoes in half. Peel and slice the shallots. Season with salt and pepper, toss in a bit of olive oil then spread out on a lined baking sheet. Bake for 20 minutes. |
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3
Done
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Make the PastaBoil a pot of water and cook the pasta of your choice acc. to the package directions. When finished, drain and set aside. |
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4
Done
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Make the ChickenPat the chicken breasts dry. Season with salt. Heat the olive oil in a deep pan and sauté on medium-high heat, about 5 minutes on each side. (Inside temperature should be 165°F / 73.8°C). Don't move or flip the chicken around, otherwise the crust will not be crispy. Remove and set aside to rest. |
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5
Done
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Make the Cheese SauceIn a sauce pot -4 to 6 quarts - melt the butter on medium heat. Add the flour and whisk to make a roux - until it is blended and is bubbling. Gradually add the milk and continue whisking. Season with salt and pepper. Gradually add the grated cheese and mix well. Simmer on low and stir until smooth. For extra richness, add a bit more heavy cream at the end. |
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6
Done
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Make the Crunchy Panko Bread Crumb ToppingPeel and chop the garlic. Chop the basil. Add the Panko bread crumbs to a bowl, mix with the garlic, basil, Parmesan cheese, and season with pepper if desired. |
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7
Done
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Assemble and Bake the Mac & CheeseIn a large casserole dish, add the pasta, chicken, bacon, and cheese sauce and mix. Then top with the Panko breadcrumb mixture. Bake for 20-25 minutes. |
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8
Done
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Top off the casserole with the oven baked cherry tomatoes and serve warm. |
