Creamy Tomato Bacon Pasta: The Ultimate Comfort Food Recipe
Introduction to Creamy Tomato Bacon Pasta
Creamy Tomato Bacon Pasta is a delightful dish that combines rich flavors and comforting textures, making it a favorite among pasta lovers. This recipe offers a perfect balance of savory bacon, fresh tomatoes, and a luscious creamy sauce, all tossed with al dente spaghetti. Whether you’re cooking for family or entertaining friends, this dish is sure to impress with its simplicity and mouthwatering taste.
A Personal Story Behind My Creamy Tomato Bacon Pasta Journey
Growing up, my family often gathered around the dinner table to enjoy hearty meals together. One of my fondest memories is the aroma of bacon sizzling in the kitchen, signaling that a delicious pasta dish was on the way. This Creamy Tomato Bacon Pasta recipe is inspired by those cherished moments, and I hope it brings you the same warmth and joy that it has brought to my family.
What Makes This Creamy Tomato Bacon Pasta Recipe Special?
What sets this recipe apart is the combination of beef bacon and fresh cherry tomatoes, which creates a depth of flavor that’s both comforting and satisfying. The creamy sauce is enhanced by garlic and herbs, making every bite a delightful experience. Plus, it’s an easy recipe that can be prepared in just about 40 minutes, making it ideal for busy weeknights or special occasions.
The Full Creamy Tomato Bacon Pasta Recipe
Ingredients
- ¾ tsp dried oregano
- ½ tsp dried basil
- ½ tsp mustard powder
- ¼ tsp onion powder
- 1/8 tsp pepper
- 1 pinch cayenne (optional)
- 5 slices beef bacon
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 2 tbsp tomato paste
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 pint cherry tomatoes
- 1 pinch red pepper flakes
- 2 tbsp cream cheese, at room temperature
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 8 oz spaghetti
- Fresh parsley, for garnish
Instructions
- Cook the beef bacon over low heat until crispy on each side. Set aside on a paper towel-lined plate and save 1 tablespoon of bacon drippings. Keep the brown remnants in the pan for flavor.
- In the same pan, add the reserved bacon drippings and garlic over medium heat. Cooking garlic until fragrant is key; aim for about 1-2 minutes.
- Pour a splash of chicken broth into the pan and use a spatula to scrape up the brown bits, enhancing the flavor. Gradually add more broth while continuing to cook the garlic.
- Once the pan is clean and flavorful, add the remaining chicken broth, tomato paste, seasonings, and heavy cream. Mix well to combine all ingredients.
- Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce to a simmer. Add the cherry tomatoes, red pepper flakes, and room temperature cream cheese. Stir until the cream cheese blends into the sauce. Partly cover and let it simmer while you prepare the pasta water; the tomatoes will split, releasing their juices.
- Taste the sauce and add salt if needed. This is a great time to adjust the flavor to your liking.
- Cook the spaghetti for 1 minute less than directed on the package. Lower the heat on the sauce and slowly sprinkle in the Parmesan cheese, stirring to combine.
- Using tongs, add the pasta to the sauce and toss until well mixed. Allow it to cook for another minute to thicken the sauce and let the pasta absorb the delicious flavors.
- Remember, the sauce will thicken more as it stands. Garnish with chopped bacon and parsley before serving. Pair with Garlic Bread with Cheese for a complete meal!
Serving Suggestions and Variations for Creamy Tomato Bacon Pasta
This Creamy Tomato Bacon Pasta is perfect on its own but can be enhanced with a variety of serving suggestions. Consider adding sautéed spinach or kale for a pop of color and added nutrients. You can also serve it with a side salad for a refreshing contrast. For those who enjoy a bit of spice, feel free to increase the cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes to suit your taste. A sprinkle of fresh basil or a squeeze of lemon juice can elevate the dish even further.
Frequently Asked Questions About Creamy Tomato Bacon Pasta
Can I use another type of pasta?
Absolutely! While spaghetti works wonderfully, you can substitute it with any pasta of your choice, such as penne or fettuccine.
Is this dish suitable for meal prep?
Yes, this pasta dish can be made ahead of time and stored in the fridge for a few days. Just reheat gently on the stove, adding a splash of chicken broth if the sauce thickens too much.
Can I make this vegetarian?
Certainly! You can omit the bacon and substitute it with mushrooms for a savory, umami flavor, and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.
What can I do with leftovers?
Leftover pasta can be enjoyed cold in a pasta salad or reheated with a bit of extra cream or broth to bring back the creaminess. Get creative with how you use it!
Creamy Tomato Bacon Pasta
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 0.75 tsp dried oregano
- 0.5 tsp dried basil
- 0.5 tsp mustard powder
- 0.25 tsp onion powder
- 0.125 tsp pepper
- 1 pinch cayenne optional
- 5 slices beef bacon
- 4 cloves garlic minced
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 2 tbsp tomato paste
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 pint cherry tomatoes
- 1 pinch red pepper flakes
- 2 tbsp cream cheese at room temperature
- 0.5 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 8 oz spaghetti
- Fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions
- Cook the beef bacon over low heat until crispy on each side. Set aside on a paper towel-lined plate and save 1 tablespoon of bacon drippings. Keep the brown remnants in the pan for flavor.
- In the same pan, add the reserved bacon drippings and garlic over medium heat. Cooking garlic until fragrant is key; aim for about 1-2 minutes.
- Pour a splash of chicken broth into the pan and use a spatula to scrape up the brown bits, enhancing the flavor. Gradually add more broth while continuing to cook the garlic.
- Once the pan is clean and flavorful, add the remaining chicken broth, tomato paste, seasonings, and heavy cream. Mix well to combine all ingredients.
- Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce to a simmer. Add the cherry tomatoes, red pepper flakes, and room temperature cream cheese. Stir until the cream cheese blends into the sauce. Partly cover and let it simmer while you prepare the pasta water; the tomatoes will split, releasing their juices.
- Taste the sauce and add salt if needed. This is a great time to adjust the flavor to your liking.
- Cook the spaghetti for 1 minute less than directed on the package. Lower the heat on the sauce and slowly sprinkle in the Parmesan cheese, stirring to combine.
- Using tongs, add the pasta to the sauce and toss until well mixed. Allow it to cook for another minute to thicken the sauce and let the pasta absorb the delicious flavors.
- Remember, the sauce will thicken more as it stands. Garnish with chopped bacon and parsley before serving. Pair with Garlic Bread with Cheese for a complete meal!