Creamy Tomato Bacon Pasta
A delightful dish combining beef bacon, fresh tomatoes, and a creamy sauce, perfect for any occasion.
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!
Notes
For a spicier kick, increase the amount of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes. No alcoholic drinks allowed, please substitute with a non-alcoholic option.