Name: Spicy Bacon Tomato Pasta
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: Italian
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 (or to taste); 1/2 cup freshly grated parmesan cheese; 1 small handful fresh basil (sliced thin); Salt & pepper (to taste)

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Nothing quite fills your kitchen with comforting aromas like a pot of pasta simmering away on the stove. Imagine the rich smell of sizzling bacon blending with the sweetness of tomatoes, while hints of garlic tease your senses. Each twirl of pasta enveloped in a luscious, creamy sauce promises warmth and a little bit of a kick. This Spicy Bacon Tomato Pasta is not just a meal; it’s an experience to savor.

Table of Contents

Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Ingredients You’ll Need
How to Make Spicy Bacon Tomato Pasta
Storing & Reheating
Chef’s Helpful Tips
Recipe FAQs
Spicy Bacon Tomato Pasta

I think back to warm summer evenings spent with family, gathering around the table to enjoy hearty meals that brought everyone together. This dish resonates with that sentiment, effortlessly bridging the gap between comfort and surprise. Whether it’s a cozy dinner date at home or a casual gathering with friends, this recipe sets just the right vibe. So grab your apron and let’s get cooking — trust me, you’re going to love this pasta!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Simple & Quick: Ready in just 30 minutes, this pasta dish is perfect for busy weeknights!
Irresistible Flavor: The combination of creamy sauce, crispy bacon, and a touch of heat creates a delightful symphony for your taste buds.
Eye-Catching Appeal: Vibrant colors from the fresh basil and rich tomato sauce make this dish as beautiful as it is delicious.
Flexible Serving: It’s great for dinner, fantastic for entertaining, and just as delightful for a simple weeknight meal.
Diet-Friendly Options: Easily swap in gluten-free pasta or dairy alternatives for a modified but still delicious version.

Ingredients You’ll Need

8 ounces uncooked pasta: Any type works, but I recommend penne or fusilli for holding onto that creamy sauce beautifully.
4 strips thick-cut bacon: The great flavor comes from thick-cut bacon; it crisps up nicely and gives that savory boost. Turkey bacon can be a leaner alternative if preferred.
1/2 medium onion (chopped): Sweet yellow onions add a wonderful depth of flavor as they sauté in bacon fat. Feel free to use shallots for a milder taste.
4 cloves garlic (minced): Fresh garlic is a must! It offers a pungent kick that enhances the overall dish.
1/4 cup dry white wine: It deglazes the pan, adding a layer of richness. You can substitute with vegetable broth for a non-alcoholic version.
1/4 cup tomato paste (double concentrated): This is the heart of the sauce, lending it that vibrant color and intense flavor. Look for high-quality brands if possible.
1 cup heavy/whipping cream: Creates a luxurious creamy texture that pairs perfectly with the spice. Coconut cream works well for a dairy-free option.
1/2 teaspoon Italian seasoning: This blend brings an aromatic essence to our sauce; feel free to tailor it to your taste.
1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (or to taste): Adjust this to your spice preference! More heat makes it exciting.
1/2 cup freshly grated parmesan cheese: The finishing touch that adds a savory depth. Nutritional yeast can substitute for a vegan option.
1 small handful fresh basil (sliced thin): Fresh herbs elevate the dish’s brightness and aroma. Don’t skimp on this!
Salt & pepper (to taste): Essential for balancing all the flavors, and should be adjusted to your palate.

How to Make Spicy Bacon Tomato Pasta

Boil and Cook Pasta: In a large pot, bring salted water to a rolling boil, then add your uncooked pasta. Make sure to cook it according to the package instructions, aiming for al dente — just firm enough to hold its shape. This typically takes about 8-10 minutes. As it cooks, reserve some of the pasta water later for our sauce, then drain it when finished.

Prepare the Bacon: While the pasta is cooking, cut your bacon into small pieces. Using kitchen shears makes this quick and easy! Toss the pieces into a large skillet over medium-high heat. Cook until they turn crispy, which should take about 5-7 minutes. Once crispy, transfer them onto a paper towel-lined plate to drain, leaving about 2 tablespoons of the delicious bacon fat in the pan.

Sauté Onions: With the heat still set to medium, add the chopped onion to the skillet. Cook until it softens and becomes translucent, which takes about 5-7 minutes. This step lifts the flavor base of the skillet, and the scent will begin to fill your kitchen with warmth.

Add Garlic and Wine: Stir in the minced garlic and let it cook for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Next, pour in the dry white wine, scraping the pan’s bottom to incorporate all those fabulous browned bits. Allow it to simmer until slightly reduced, making for a richer sauce.

Stir in the Tomato Sauce: Now, add the tomato paste and heavy cream to the skillet. Whisk them together until smooth — this is where the magic happens! Incorporate the Italian seasoning and crushed red pepper flakes, then let it bubble gently for about 5 minutes. Watch as it thickens, creating that luscious creamy texture we all love.

Combine Bacon and Basil: Once the sauce has thickened, stir in the crispy bacon pieces and thinly sliced basil to infuse that aromatic freshness. The moment the basil hits the sauce, you’ll notice its beautiful fragrance wafting up, inviting everyone to the kitchen.

Finish with Parmesan: Take the skillet off the heat and fold in the freshly grated parmesan cheese, stirring until melted and combined. If the sauce seems too thick, thin it out with a splash of the reserved pasta water until you reach your desired consistency.

Bring It All Together: Drain your cooked pasta and add it to the sauce in the skillet. Toss everything together until the pasta is evenly coated. Season with salt and pepper as needed, then serve immediately while it’s hot and comforting.

Storing & Reheating

For any leftovers, make sure to let them cool before transferring to an airtight container. The pasta can be stored at room temperature for about 1-2 hours before moving it to the fridge, where it will keep fresh for up to 3 days. If you want to store it long-term, you can freeze it in airtight containers for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, simply reheat it gently in the microwave or on the stovetop, adding a dash of cream or pasta water to restore its creamy character.

Chef’s Helpful Tips

Don’t overcrowd the skillet when cooking bacon. It needs space to crisp up nicely!
Always taste and season your sauce before serving; flavors may vary based on your ingredients.
If you’d like a touch of extra heat, consider adding some diced fresh chili along with the onion.
Have fun with the pasta shape! Farfalle and rigatoni can add a fun twist.
Make ahead by cooking the pasta and sauce separately, then combine when ready to serve for a quick meal.

There you have it! This Spicy Bacon Tomato Pasta combines an irresistible mix of rich flavors with just the right amount of heat. The textures, tastes, and fresh ingredients create a delightful dish that everyone will adore. Don’t hesitate to make it your own; playing around with spice levels and herbs can lead you to a new favorite. Enjoy this comforting bowl of goodness with loved ones and relish every bite!

Recipe FAQs

Can I use a different type of pasta?

Absolutely! While I recommend penne or fusilli for their ability to hold onto the sauce, feel free to swap out your favorite pasta shape, whether it’s spaghetti or even a gluten-free variety. The cooking time may vary slightly, so always check the package for guidance.

Is it necessary to use white wine?

Not at all! The wine adds depth, but if you’re avoiding alcohol, you can substitute it with vegetable broth or even a splash of lemon juice. Just keep an eye on the salt levels, since broth can be salty.

Can I make this dish vegetarian?

Yes! Simply omit the bacon and use olive oil to sauté the onions. You can replace the cream with a dairy-free version and add extra veggies like spinach or mushrooms for additional flavor and texture.

How can I spice it up further?

If you’re a heat lover, consider adding more crushed red pepper flakes, or throw in some diced jalapeños when sautéing the onions. A sprinkle of hot sauce when serving is another way to bring some extra kick!