Bacon & Broccoli Alfredo

Instructions

1. Prepare the ingredients & make the spicy breadcrumbs

   • Wash and dry the broccoli. Cut off and discard the bottom ½ inch of the stem, then cut the broccoli into small florets.
   • Medium dice the bacon.
   • In a large pan (nonstick, if you have one), heat a drizzle of olive oil on medium-high until hot.
   • Add the breadcrumbs and as much of the chile paste as you'd like, depending on how spicy you'd like the dish to be; season with salt and pepper. Cook, stirring constantly, 1 to 2 minutes, or until combined and lightly browned.
   • Transfer to a bowl. Taste, then season with salt and pepper if desired.
   • Wipe out the pan.

2. Cook the bacon & broccoli

   • Heat the same pan on medium-high until hot.
   • Add the diced bacon. Cook, stirring occasionally, 2 to 3 minutes, or until lightly browned.
   • Add the broccoli florets; season with salt and pepper. Cook, stirring occasionally, 2 to 3 minutes, or until the broccoli is slightly softened and the bacon is cooked through and crispy.

3. Finish the pasta & serve your dish

   • Add the pasta, béchamel, butter, cream (shaking the packet before opening), and 2 tablespoons of water (carefully, as the liquid may splatter); season with salt and pepper. Cook, stirring occasionally, 2 to 3 minutes, or until combined, the butter is melted, and the pasta is heated through.
   • Turn off the heat.
   • Serve the finished pasta topped with the spicy breadcrumbs. Enjoy!