Rigatoni with Bacon, Spinach and Two Cheeses

This is one of my family favorites. You will get lots of requests for this one. Feel free to exchange the cheeses with something different.

• Ready In: 50 mins
• Serves: 4-6

Ingredients

• 8  slices bacon, cut in one inch pieces
• 1  large red bell pepper, cut into matchsticks
• 1  cup  chopped onion
• 12  ounces rigatoni pasta
• 1 1⁄3 cups  grated Fontina cheese
• 1 1⁄3 cups  crumbled gorgonzola
• 6  tablespoons butter, cut into pieces,room temperature
• 8  ounces  chopped fresh spinach
• 3  tablespoons brandy
• 1⁄3 cup  toasted walnuts, chopped
• 2  tablespoons  chopped fresh chives or 2  tablespoons green onion tops

Directions

1. Cook bacon in a heavy, large skillet over medium heat until crisp.
2. Transfer bacon to paper towels and drain.
3. Pour off all but 3 Tbsp.
4. drippings from the pan.
5. Add bell pepper and onion to the skillet and sauté until tender.
6. Remove skillet from heat.
7. Meanwhile, cook rigatoni in a large pot of salted boiling water until tender but firm.
8. Drain and immediately return pasta to the same pot.
9. Add the cheeses and butter until they melt and coat the pasta.
10. Add spinach and brandy and toss over medium heat until the spinach wilts.
11. Gently mix in the red bell pepper mixture and the bacon.
12. Season to taste with salt and pepper.
13. Garnish with walnuts and chives and serve immediately.