Broccoli Rabe Pasta Bake
Broccoli Rabe Pasta Bake. It’s the first snow fall of the season and nothing says snow day quite like a cozy pasta bake. This one is super cheesy and loaded with roasted broccoli rabe and crispy pancetta. I mean it just doesn’t get much cozier than this on a cold snowy day. Looks like it’s going to be a white Christmas season !! Who’s excited ?!
It’s currently pretty cold out and definitely snowy. I won’t lie, i’m not a huge fan of the snow. However, this pasta bake kind of fits the mood super perfectly. We haven’t had a snowstorm in a reallyyyy long time here. So, this one definitely was a little unexpected. Hence, the need for comfort food. Baked pastas always do the trick.
This one is unique. The broccoli rabe is a perfect pair with the pancetta. The cheese is heavy in this dish, but that’s the way all good pasta bakes should be. Throw on some fresh oregano and sprinkle some red pepper flakes. Just seriously the best !! If you especially like broccoli rabe as much as we do, this will be the pasta bake of your dreams…trust me !! ;)
Ingredients:
1 bunch broccoli rabe; trimmed
4 tablespoons olive oil; divided
salt and pepper
4 ounces pancetta; chopped
1/2 onion; chopped
1 clove garlic; chopped
1 teaspoon dried oregano
1 teaspoon dried basil
1 (26 ounce) box Pomi chopped tomatoes
1 cup milk
3/4 cup red wine
2 bay leaves
1 pound short cut pasta
10 ounces fresh mozzarella cheese
fresh oregano and red pepper flakes for serving
Directions:
On a large baking sheet lined with parchment paper, toss the broccoli rabe with 2 tablespoons of olive oil, salt, and pepper. Roast in 400 degree oven until crispy. About 10 - 15 minutes. Remove and set aside.
Meanwhile in a large skillet, cook the pancetta in the remaining 2 tablespoons of olive oil until starting to crisp. Add the onion and garlic. Sauté until softened. Add the tomatoes, dried oregano, dried basil, milk, wine, and bay leaves. Bring to a bubble and reduce heat. Cook over medium heat for about 30 minutes until thickened. Remove from heat. Sprinkle with salt and pepper.
Cook the pasta and drain. Add the sauce, broccoli rabe, and half of the mozzarella. Mix until combined. Transfer to an oven proof skillet or baking dish. Top with remaining mozzarella. Bake for 20 - 25 minutes. Serve topped with fresh oregano and red pepper flakes.
