Are you craving a flavorful and satisfying meal that's ready in under 30 minutes? Look no further! This Tomato and Bacon Pasta recipe is the perfect solution for busy weeknights. It's a simple yet delicious dish that combines the savory richness of bacon with the bright acidity of tomatoes, creating a taste sensation that will impress your family and friends. This recipe is a perfect example of how easy and quick homemade cooking can be, offering a healthy and delicious alternative to takeout. It’s a fantastic quick dinner idea, perfect for those nights when you need something tasty on the table fast.
Ingredients:
- 8 ounces pasta (penne, rigatoni, or your favorite shape)
- 4 slices bacon, diced
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 (28-ounce) can crushed tomatoes
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon dried basil
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (plus extra for serving)
- Fresh basil leaves, for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
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Cook the pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook according to package directions until al dente. Reserve about 1/2 cup of pasta water before draining.
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Cook the bacon: While the pasta is cooking, cook the diced bacon in a large skillet over medium heat until crispy. Remove the bacon with a slotted spoon and set aside, reserving the bacon grease in the skillet.
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Sauté the garlic: Add the olive oil to the skillet with the bacon grease. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds, or until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic.
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Simmer the sauce: Add the crushed tomatoes, oregano, basil, red pepper flakes (if using), salt, and pepper to the skillet. Bring the sauce to a simmer and cook for about 10 minutes, stirring occasionally, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully. This simple step elevates the dish from good to great.
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Combine pasta and sauce: Add the cooked pasta to the skillet with the sauce. Toss to coat evenly. If the sauce is too thick, add a little of the reserved pasta water until you reach your desired consistency.
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Stir in bacon and cheese: Stir in the crispy bacon and Parmesan cheese. Toss gently to combine.
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Serve: Serve immediately, garnished with fresh basil leaves (if using) and extra Parmesan cheese.
Tips and Variations:
- For a richer flavor, use pancetta instead of bacon.
- Add other vegetables, such as diced onions, bell peppers, or mushrooms, to the sauce.
- For a vegetarian version, omit the bacon and add a tablespoon of nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor.
- If you prefer a smoother sauce, blend a portion of the sauce with an immersion blender before adding the pasta.
- Feel free to experiment with different herbs and spices to customize the flavor to your liking.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
- Calories: Approximately 400-450
- Fat: 20-25g
- Protein: 15-20g
- Carbohydrates: 40-45g
This easy recipe is packed with flavor and is a fantastic addition to your repertoire of healthy meals and delicious dishes. It’s a testament to the magic of simple, homemade cooking and proves that best recipes don't need to be complicated. Enjoy!