Creamy Bacon & Greens Ditalini

Directions

1. 1

   Bring a pot of generously salted water to a boil for the ditalini pasta. Once boiling, cook pasta 2 mins less than package directions (until very al dente), drain, and set aside.

2. 2

   Meanwhile, place the bacon in a medium pot and set over medium-high heat. Cook, stirring a few times, until crispy (9-12 mins). Using a slotted spoon, transfer the bacon to a paper-towel-lined plate to drain; set aside. You should have ~1/4 cup of fat left in the pot.

3. 3

   Turn the heat down to medium and add the onion. Cook while stirring for ~2 mins until the onions are starting to soften, then add the garlic. Cook for 1 min, then add the flour. Cook the flour for 1 min while stirring, then start gradually adding the milk 1 cup at a time, stirring to fully incorporate it before adding more.

4. 4

   Once all the milk has been added, turn the heat to medium high and cook, stirring often, until the sauce begins to bubble and thicken (3-5 mins). Add the salt, pepper, and cayenne.

5. 5

   Turn the heat down to medium and add the chard. Cook for ~1 min until it turns bright green and becomes tender, then add the parmesan and ditalini. Cook for 1-2 mins until the pasta is your desired tenderness, then stir in the crispy bacon and turn off the heat.

6. 6

   Serve with freshly grated parmesan on top and enjoy!