Spicy Bacon Tomato Pasta
A cozy and indulgent pasta dish combining crispy bacon, rich cream, and a hint of spice, perfect for weeknight dinners with family.
Ingredients
Pasta
- 8 oz spaghetti or your favorite pasta Long strands work beautifully, but penne or fusilli holds the sauce well.
Bacon
- 4 slices thick-cut bacon For that perfect crispy texture. Use turkey bacon for a lighter option.
Sauce Base
- 2 cloves fresh garlic Minced, for a fragrant depth of flavor.
- 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes Fire-roasted for added smokiness or regular for a milder flavor.
- 1 tsp red pepper flakes Adjust according to your heat preference; this is where the spicy comes in!
- 1/2 cup heavy cream For a rich, velvety sauce; you can substitute with half-and-half or coconut milk for a lighter version.
- Salt and pepper To taste, enhancing each flavor beautifully.
Garnish
- Fresh basil or parsley Chopped for garnish, adding a burst of freshness at the end.
Instructions
Cooking the Pasta
- Begin by boiling a large pot of salted water. Add your spaghetti and cook according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain, reserving about 1/2 cup of the pasta water.
Sautéing the Bacon
- In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the bacon until crispy, about 5-7 minutes. Remove the bacon from the skillet, leaving the drippings behind, and set it on a paper towel to catch excess grease.
Sautéing the Garlic
- In the same skillet, add the minced garlic to the bacon drippings and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant.
Adding Tomatoes
- Pour in the diced tomatoes with their juices. Stir in the red pepper flakes and let everything simmer for 5 minutes.
Creating the Sauce
- Slowly pour in the heavy cream, stirring to combine. Allow it to simmer for another 3-4 minutes until the sauce is creamy.
Combining with Pasta
- Toss the cooked pasta into the skillet and mix well, using the reserved pasta water to loosen the sauce if needed.
Finishing Touches
- Crumble the crispy bacon into the pasta, season with salt and pepper, and mix before garnishing with fresh basil or parsley.
Notes
Consider using whole wheat pasta for added fiber or Greek yogurt instead of heavy cream for a lighter sauce. Pair with a simple green salad and garlic bread.