Alfredo Deluxe Recipe

Prep and cook pasta

Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Add 1 tsp salt. Cook 1 lb penne according to package directions until al dente (usually 10-12 minutes). Reserve 1 cup of pasta cooking water, then drain pasta and set aside.

Cook bacon

While pasta cooks, heat a large skillet over medium heat. Add 6 slices smoked bacon and cook until crisp, turning occasionally, about 8 minutes. Transfer bacon to a paper towel-lined plate to drain. When cool, chop into 1/2-inch pieces. Reserve 1 tablespoon of bacon fat in the skillet (optional) for extra flavor; discard remaining fat or save for another use.

Grill chicken

Meanwhile, pat 2 chicken breasts dry, rub with 1 tbs olive oil and season with 1/2 tsp salt and 1/2 tsp black pepper. Preheat a grill or grill pan to medium-high. Grill chicken 5-7 minutes per side, until internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). Let rest 5 minutes, then slice into 1/2-inch strips or bite-sized pieces.

Make roux and garlic base

In a medium saucepan over medium heat, melt 6 tbs unsalted butter. Add 3 minced garlic cloves and sauté 30-45 seconds until fragrant (do not brown). Sprinkle in 2 tbs all-purpose flour and whisk continuously for 1-2 minutes to cook the flour and form a light roux.

Add liquids and thicken

Gradually whisk in 1 cup whole milk and 1 cup heavy cream until smooth. Continue to cook over medium-low heat, stirring frequently, until the sauce thickens slightly, about 4-6 minutes. If sauce becomes too thick, whisk in up to 1/2 cup reserved pasta cooking water, 1 tbsp at a time, to reach desired consistency.

Finish sauce with cheeses and seasonings

Reduce heat to low. Whisk in 1.5 cups freshly grated Parmesan and 2 oz softened cream cheese until melted and smooth. Season with 1/2 tsp salt, 1/2 tsp freshly ground black pepper, and 1/8 tsp nutmeg (optional). Taste and adjust seasoning. Keep sauce warm on very low heat; do not boil.

Combine pasta, sauce, proteins

Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). In a large mixing bowl or directly in a 9x13-inch baking dish, combine drained penne with the Alfredo sauce, tossing gently to coat. Fold in the sliced grilled chicken and chopped cooked bacon, reserving a small handful of bacon to sprinkle on top. If sauce seems thick, add a splash of reserved pasta water to loosen.

Top and bake

Sprinkle 1 cup shredded mozzarella evenly over the pasta. Place baking dish on a sheet pan and bake at 375°F for 12-15 minutes, until cheese is melted and bubbling and edges are lightly browned.

Finish and serve

Remove from oven and let rest 5 minutes. Sprinkle 1/4 cup Parmesan-herb shake evenly over the top, then garnish with 2 tbs chopped fresh parsley and the reserved bacon pieces. Serve hot.