Bacon & Broccoli Alfredo

Instructions

1. Prepare the ingredients & make the spicy breadcrumbs

   Fill a large pot with salted water; cover and heat to boiling on high. Wash and dry the fresh produce. Cut off and discard the bottom ½ inch of the broccoli stem; cut the broccoli into small pieces. In a large nonstick or cast iron pan, heat 2 teaspoons of olive oil on medium-high until hot. Add the breadcrumbs and a pinch each of salt, red pepper flakes, and Italian seasoning (you'll use the rest later). Cook, stirring frequently, for 2 to 3 minutes, or until golden brown and toasted. Transfer to a plate. Wipe out the pan.

2. Cook the bacon & broccoli

   In the same pan, heat a drizzle of olive oil on medium-high until hot. Add the chopped bacon and cook, stirring occasionally, for 3 to 4 minutes, or until lightly browned and cooked through. Add the broccoli pieces; season with salt and pepper. Cook, stirring occasionally, for 3 to 4 minutes, or until the broccoli is bright green and slightly softened. Turn off the heat.

3. Cook the pasta

   Add the pasta to the pot of boiling water. Cook, stirring occasionally, 2 to 3 minutes less than the package directions indicate (the pasta should be al dente). Reserving ½ cup of the pasta cooking water, drain the pasta.

4. Finish the pasta & serve your dish

   To the pan of cooked bacon and broccoli, add the cooked pasta, parmesan (removing the rind), butter, and half the reserved pasta cooking water. Cook on medium-low, stirring constantly, for 1 to 2 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and the pasta is coated (if needed, gradually add the remaining cooking water to ensure the pasta is thoroughly coated). Turn off the heat; stir in the egg yolks until thoroughly combined. Taste, then season with salt and pepper if desired. Serve the finished pasta garnished with the spicy breadcrumbs. Enjoy!