6-Cheese Penne Pasta

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   1.

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   Preheat oven to 375 degrees F. Cook pasta according to directions on the package, with a splash of olive oil and salt.

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   When its done, make sure to reserve a small amount of the pasta water to thin the sauce with later, if necessary.

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   Then, drain pasta and set aside.

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   2.

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   Add 2 tablespoons of olive oil to a large skillet over medium-high heat.

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   Add sausage and brown/crumble until done; remove to a plate and cover to keep warm.

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   Fry bacon in the same skillet until crispy; dice up bacon and add to sausage mixture.

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   Reserve a small amount of the grease and dump the rest.

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    3.

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    Saute diced tomatoes, garlic, and 3/4 cup (or more if you want) of basil using a small amount of the grease (about one tablespoon).

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    Add sausage/bacon mixture back to the skillet.

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    Stir to combine and add salt and pepper to taste.

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    Cover to keep warm.

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    For the sauce:

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    4.

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    In a large saucepan over medium heat, melt butter and then add heavy cream.

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    Bring to a simmer, stirring frequently.

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    5.

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    Gradually, stir in all of the cheeses and reduce to low heat.

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    Continue to stir until all of the cheeses are combined and add salt and pepper to taste.

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    6.

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    Add sausage mixture to the sauce and stir to combine.

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    Add pasta to sauce mixture and stir to combine.

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    If the sauce is a little clumpy, add a small amount of the reserved pasta water to thin the sauce, until it is the desired consistency.

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    Then pour pasta into a large baking dish.

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    Top with plenty of shredded parmesan cheese and more chopped basil.

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    7.

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    Bake pasta in the oven for 15-20 minutes.

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    Then broil on high and continue to cook pasta for 5-6 minutes until the top is golden brown and slighty crispy.

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    8.

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    Serve and enjoy.

* Per serving · 4 servings · Values may vary.