CARROT AND MUSHROOM CASSEROLE WITH BACON?

Carrot and Mushroom Casserole with Bacon? image

Provided by raymond spencer

Time 35m

Number Of Ingredients 12

1 Tbsp olive oil
3 large carrots,sliced
8 oz dried cavatappi pasta
1 Tbsp margarine
8 oz button mushrooms,sliced
1 medium red onion,chopped
2 Tbsp all purpose flour
1 c fat free milk
2 tsp red pepper flakes
2 tsp sea salt and black pepper
1 3/4 c shredded italian cheese blend
6 bacon strips,cooked and crumbled

Steps:

1. Preheat oven to 375 degrees F.Lightly coat a 2 quart rectangular baking dish with cooking spray.
2. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.Add sliced carrots and saute for 6 minutes or until are tender.Remove from heat and set aside.
3. Cook pasta according to package directions;drain.
4. In a medium saucepan,heat margarine over medium heat.Add sliced mushrooms and chopped red onions.Cook until tender,about 5 minutes.
5. Sprinkle flour over mushroom mixture.Cook and stir for 1 minute.Add milk,red pepper flakes and sea salt/black pepper.
6. Cook and stir over medium heat until thickened and bubbly.Remove from heat;stir in sauteed carrots.
7. Add cooked pasta.Gently fold to combine.Transfer half of the pasta mixture to to the prepared baking dish.Sprinkle with half of the cheese.Add cooked bacon bits and remaining pasta mixture and cheese.
8. Bake,uncovered,25 minutes or until heated through and cheese is melted.