Spicy Bacon Tomato Pasta
The moment you step into the kitchen, the rich aroma of sizzling bacon greets you, wrapping you in a warm embrace. As the bacon crisps to perfection, it fills the air with that irresistible smoky scent, mingling deliciously with the aromatic hints of garlic and onion. The vibrant colors of juicy tomatoes shine bright against the creamy backdrop, promising a sensational dish that’s just waiting to happen. This Spicy Bacon Tomato Pasta is not just a meal; it’s a heartfelt experience reminiscent of cozy dinners shared with loved ones, a delightful nod to the flavors that have filled many of our childhoods.
Table of Contents
For me, this pasta takes me back to lazy Sunday afternoons where family gathered around the table to share stories and laughter. I can almost hear the clinking of forks and the chatter as we enjoyed every bite, savoring the blend of flavors that dance on our palates. Whether it’s a bustling weeknight or a leisurely weekend gathering, this dish is perfect for any occasion. With just a hint of spice, the creamy tomato sauce intertwined with crispy bacon and fresh basil beckons you to dig in. Are you ready to whip up a plate of this deliciousness?
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Simple & Quick: Whip up this dish in just 30 minutes; perfect for busy weeknights or last-minute guests.
- Irresistible Flavor: The smoky bacon paired with creamy tomato sauce creates a delightful explosion of taste.
- Eye-Catching Appeal: The vibrant colors make this dish not just a meal, but a feast for the eyes.
- Flexible Serving: Enjoy it as a comforting dinner, a playful brunch, or serve it at a potluck for friends and family.
- Diet-Friendly Options: Easily swap the cream for a non-dairy alternative if you’re looking for a lighter twist.
Ingredients You’ll Need
- 8 ounces uncooked pasta: Any short shape works well—penne or fusilli are great for catching the sauce.
- 4 strips thick-cut bacon: Adds a smoky flavor and crispy texture; turkey bacon can be a lighter alternative.
- 1/2 medium onion (chopped): Provides a sweet base flavor; substitute with shallots for a milder taste.
- 4 cloves garlic (minced): For a fragrant aroma; fresh garlic packs a better punch than pre-minced.
- 1/4 cup dry white wine: Enhances the sauce’s depth; use broth for a non-alcoholic version.
- 1/4 cup tomato paste (double concentrated): Intensifies tomato flavor; can substitute with crushed tomatoes if needed.
- 1 cup heavy/whipping cream: Adds richness; coconut milk works well for a dairy-free option.
- 1/2 teaspoon Italian seasoning: A blend of herbs elevates the sauce; fresh herbs like basil or oregano can also be substituted.
- 1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes: Adds a kick; adjust to taste based on your spice preference.
- 1/2 cup freshly grated parmesan cheese: For that cheesy goodness; nutritional yeast is a great dairy-free alternative.
- 1 small handful fresh basil (sliced thin): Brings freshness; feel free to use parsley if you prefer.
- Salt & pepper (to taste): Essential for enhancing all the flavors; don’t skip this step!
How to Make Spicy Bacon Tomato Pasta
Boil and Cook: Begin by boiling a large pot of salted water. Once it’s bubbling, add your uncooked pasta and cook it according to the package instructions for al dente tenderness, usually about 8-10 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking. While the pasta cooks, you can start preparing the sauce.
Cook the Bacon: Chop your bacon into small pieces—kitchen shears make this task easy. In a large skillet, cook the bacon over medium-high heat until it turns crispy, about 5-7 minutes. Once done, transfer the bacon to a paper towel-lined plate to absorb excess grease, leaving about 2 tablespoons of the flavorful bacon fat in the skillet.
Sauté the Onion: Reduce the heat to medium for your skillet, adding the chopped onion. Sauté until it softens and becomes translucent, roughly 5-7 minutes. The onion will release its own sugars, which will enhance the sauce’s overall flavor profile.
Add Garlic and Wine: Stir in the minced garlic and allow the mixture to bubble for about 30 seconds—listen for that sizzle! Pour in the white wine, scraping up any delicious brown bits stuck to the pan. This will add a wonderful depth of flavor to your sauce.
Make the Sauce: Add the tomato paste, heavy cream, Italian seasoning, and crushed red pepper flakes to the skillet. Stir everything together until the sauce is smooth and uniform. Let it simmer gently for about 5 minutes until it thickens up a bit; the aroma filling your kitchen will be out of this world!
Combine with Bacon and Basil: Stir in the crispy bacon pieces and fresh basil into the sauce. The heat from the sauce will help to release the aromas of the basil, making it even more fragrant. Take the skillet off the heat.
Finish with Parmesan: Before adding the pasta, stir in the freshly grated Parmesan cheese, which will melt into the sauce giving it a velvety texture. If the sauce gets too thick, you can thin it out with a splash of the hot pasta water before draining your pasta.
Combine Pasta and Sauce: Drain the cooked pasta and add it straight into the skillet with the sauce. Toss everything together until the pasta is evenly coated in that creamy goodness. Taste it and add salt and pepper as needed. Serve immediately and watch everyone’s eyes light up with delight!
Storing & Reheating
This Spicy Bacon Tomato Pasta can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. If you want to store it longer, freeze the pasta in a suitable container for up to 3 months. When it’s time to enjoy it again, simply reheat it on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of cream or pasta water to refresh its creamy sauce. Just remember, the texture may change slightly after freezing, but the flavor will still be delicious!
Chef’s Helpful Tips
- Avoid overcooking the pasta; remember, it will continue to cook when combined with the sauce.
- To ensure a creamy sauce, make sure to add the cheese off the heat to prevent it from clumping.
- If you find your pasta sauce too thick, a bit of reserved pasta water will help it to loosen up without losing flavor.
- For a milder version, reduce the amount of crushed red pepper flakes or skip them entirely; you can always add them later for spice.
- Consider making a double batch and freeze half for those busy nights when you want something comforting and quick.
Relishing a plate of Spicy Bacon Tomato Pasta is not just about feeding your stomach but also your soul. The balance of flavors, the delightful creaminess, and that dash of spice can brighten even the most mundane of meals. Feel free to customize this dish to suit your palate; the world is your oyster, or should I say, your pasta! The heart of this recipe lies in its ability to bring joy and comfort to your table.
Recipe FAQs
Can I use a different type of pasta?
Absolutely! While the recipe suggests short-shaped pasta, you can use any variety, like spaghetti or fettuccine. Just adjust the cooking time based on the type of pasta you choose to ensure it’s perfectly al dente.
Is there a vegetarian version of this pasta?
Yes! You can easily make a vegetarian version by omitting the bacon and using mushrooms or smoked tofu to add a savory flavor. Additionally, substitute the bacon fat with olive oil for cooking the onions.
Can I make this recipe in advance?
You can make the sauce ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Just cook the pasta fresh right before serving to ensure it stays deliciously al dente.
How can I adjust the spice level?
If you’re sensitive to heat, start with a pinch of the crushed red pepper flakes and adjust to your taste. You can always add more spices to kick up the heat after you’ve tasted the dish!
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📖 Recipe Card
Spicy Bacon Tomato Pasta
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian
Description
Spicy Bacon Tomato Pasta is a delightful blend of crispy bacon, creamy sauce, and fresh tomatoes. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a comforting brunch, it’s a dish that truly satisfies with every bite.
Ingredients
- 8 ounces uncooked pasta
- 4 strips thick-cut bacon
- 1/2 medium onion (chopped)
- 4 cloves garlic (minced)
- 1/4 cup dry white wine
- 1/4 cup tomato paste (double concentrated)
- 1 cup heavy/whipping cream
- 1/2 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes
- 1/2 cup freshly grated parmesan cheese
- 1 small handful fresh basil (sliced thin)
- Salt & pepper (to taste)
Instructions
- Boil a large pot of salted water and cook the pasta according to package instructions.
- Chop bacon and cook in a skillet until crispy, then transfer to a plate.
- Sauté chopped onion in the remaining bacon fat until translucent, then add minced garlic.
- Pour in white wine and scrape up brown bits, then let it bubble for 30 seconds.
- Stir in tomato paste, heavy cream, Italian seasoning, and red pepper flakes. Let simmer for 5 minutes.
- Add crispy bacon and fresh basil to the sauce off heat, then stir in grated parmesan cheese.
- Drain the pasta, mix it with the sauce, and serve immediately.
Notes
For a lighter version, substitute heavy cream with coconut milk.
Adjust the amount of crushed red pepper flakes to control the spice level.
To store leftovers, keep in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 plate
- Calories: 650
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 800mg
- Fat: 35g
- Saturated Fat: 19g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 62g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 20g
- Cholesterol: 85mg
