Ingredients
3 thick-cut slices bacon, cut into ½"-thin strips
1 1/2 c. drained kimchi, roughly chopped
3 cloves garlic, minced
4 c. water
2 c. half-and-half
1 lb. pasta shells
1 tbsp. gochujang (optional)
2 tsp. kosher salt
2 c. freshly grated Parmesan
Thinly sliced scallions, for serving
Toasted sesame seeds, for serving
Preparation
Step 1In a large pot over medium-high heat, cook bacon, stirring occasionally, until crisp and fat has rendered, 10 minutes.Step 2Empty all but about 1 tablespoon bacon fat from the pot and add kimchi and garlic. Stir to combine, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pot. Cook until garlic is fragrant and most of the moisture has evaporated from the kimchi, about 2 minutes.Step 3Add water, half-and-half, pasta, gochujang (if using), and salt. Bring to a boil and cook, stirring occasionally, until pasta is al dente, about 8 minutes. Remove from heat and stir in Parmesan until melted.Step 4Top with scallions and sesame seeds before serving.
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