Jump to Recipe Print RecipeThe sizzle of bacon in a hot skillet instantly transports me to my happy place. With the tempting aroma wafting through the air, I’m reminded of cozy weeknight dinners shared with loved ones. Today, I’m excited to share my easy recipe for Spicy Bacon Tomato Pasta, a dish that perfectly balances creamy goodness with a gentle kick of heat. In just 30 minutes, you can whip up this mouthwatering meal, making it an ideal weeknight dinner that feels gourmet yet simple to prepare. Plus, the crispy bacon adds a delightful crunch that will keep everyone coming back for seconds. Curious about how to elevate your pasta game? Let’s dive in! Why choose Spicy Bacon Tomato Pasta? Speedy Convenience: You can prepare this delightful dish in just 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights. Flavor Explosion: The combination of creamy tomato sauce, crispy bacon, and a hint of spice creates an irresistible taste sensation. Comforting Comfort: This recipe brings a cozy, restaurant-quality experience to your dining table, perfect for those seeking comfort food. Versatile Options: Whether paired with a fresh side salad or some garlic bread, this pasta dish is adaptable to fit any meal setting. Total Crowd-Pleaser: Your family and friends will be clamoring for seconds, making it a hit for gatherings and special occasions. For more delicious ideas, check out my Tomato Spinach Shrimp or Spicy Honey Pepper dishes! Spicy Bacon Tomato Pasta Ingredients For the Pasta • Pasta – Use any short pasta shape like penne or farfalle for a perfect bite. For the Sauce • Bacon – Thick-cut is best for a satisfying crunch and savory flavor. • Onion – Provides natural sweetness; swap with shallots for a milder taste. • Garlic – Fresh is key for a robust flavor; skip the pre-minced for best results. • Dry White Wine – Enhances the sauce; choose a wine you enjoy for cooking. • Tomato Paste – Opt for double-concentrated for a deeper, richer tomato flavor. • Heavy Whipping Cream – Delivers a luscious creamy texture; half-and-half can be a lighter substitute. • Italian Seasoning – This blend of herbs adds depth; fresh herbs elevate the flavor even more. • Crushed Red Pepper Flakes – Adjust based on your heat preference for the spicy kick. For the Finish • Parmesan Cheese – Freshly grated gives the dish umami and creaminess; avoid pre-grated for best taste. • Fresh Basil – Adds bright herbal notes; parsley is a good swap if needed. • Salt & Pepper – Basic yet essential seasonings; adjust to taste for a well-balanced dish. With these ingredients, you’ll create a comforting, flavorful bowl of Spicy Bacon Tomato Pasta that’s sure to impress! Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Spicy Bacon Tomato Pasta Step 1: Boil the Pasta Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Add your preferred short pasta, like penne or farfalle, and cook according to the package instructions until al dente, usually around 8-10 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking, and keep an eye on the pasta’s texture to ensure the perfect bite. Step 2: Cook the Bacon While the pasta is cooking, heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add chopped thick-cut bacon and cook until it’s crispy and golden brown, about 6-8 minutes. Use a slotted spoon to transfer the bacon to a paper towel-lined plate, allowing the excess grease to drain while leaving the fat in the skillet for extra flavor. Step 3: Sauté the Onion In the same skillet with the bacon fat, reduce the heat to medium and add a chopped onion. Sauté for about 5-7 minutes, stirring frequently, until the onion turns translucent and softens. The delicious aroma will fill your kitchen, and you’ll know it’s ready when it’s fragrant and lightly caramelized. Step 4: Add Garlic and Wine Next, add minced garlic to the sautéed onion, stirring for about 30 seconds until it’s fragrant. Carefully pour in a splash of dry white wine, scraping up any brown bits from the skillet. Allow it to bubble and reduce slightly for about 30 more seconds, enhancing the flavors that will be the base of your creamy sauce. Step 5: Make the Sauce Stir in a generous dollop of tomato paste, followed by heavy whipping cream, Italian seasoning, and crushed red pepper flakes. Mix everything until smooth, allowing the sauce to gently simmer for about 5 minutes until it thickens and bubbles slightly, creating a rich, inviting sauce for your Spicy Bacon Tomato Pasta. Step 6: Combine Ingredients Once the sauce has thickened, return the crispy bacon and freshly chopped basil to the skillet. Remove from heat, and quickly stir in freshly grated Parmesan cheese, allowing it to melt into the creamy sauce. This step will add a layer of umami, making your dish irresistibly delicious. Step 7: Toss with Pasta Drain the pasta, reserving a cup of pasta water. Immediately add the drained pasta to the sauce and toss well to coat each piece thoroughly. If the sauce is too thick, loosen it with a splash of reserved pasta water until you reach your desired consistency. This will seamlessly blend the flavors in your Spicy Bacon Tomato Pasta. Step 8: Season and Serve Taste the pasta and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper as needed. Once perfectly seasoned, serve the dish hot, garnishing with extra Parmesan cheese and fresh basil if desired. The comforting, creamy pasta with crispy bacon awaits you and your loved ones, promising an unforgettable flavor experience. Make Ahead Options These Spicy Bacon Tomato Pasta ingredients are perfect for meal prep! You can cook the pasta and bacon up to 24 hours in advance. Simply refrigerate the cooked pasta in an airtight container, tossing it with a little olive oil to prevent sticking. You can also prepare the creamy sauce (up to 3 days ahead) by sautéing the onions, garlic, and other ingredients, then storing it in the fridge. When you’re ready to serve, reheat the sauce on the stovetop while adding the cooked bacon and fresh basil. Combine with the pasta, ensuring to use a splash of reserved pasta water to achieve the desired consistency, and you’ll have a delicious meal ready with minimal effort! Expert Tips for Spicy Bacon Tomato Pasta • Bacon Breakdown: Ensure you cut the bacon into even pieces for uniform cooking. This prevents any chunks from being undercooked or overcooked in your Spicy Bacon Tomato Pasta. • Wine Selection: Use a dry white wine that you enjoy drinking; this can greatly enhance the flavor of your sauce. Low-quality wine can leave an odd taste in your dish. • Pasta Precision: Cook the pasta just shy of al dente, as it will continue to cook when tossed with the sauce. This prevents mushy pasta and keeps every bite delightful. • Thick Sauce Fix: If your sauce thickens too much, don’t hesitate to add reserved pasta cooking water gradually. This helps achieve the perfect creamy consistency. • Herbal Freshness: For the brightest flavor, use freshly chopped basil at the end of cooking. This keeps the herbs aromatic and vibrant, elevating your Spicy Bacon Tomato Pasta immensely. Variations & Substitutions for Spicy Bacon Tomato Pasta Customize your dish with these delightful alternatives that will tickle your taste buds and inspire creativity! Bacon Swap: Replace bacon with pancetta or turkey bacon for a lighter, yet still savory option. Think about the crispy textures and flavors that still pack a punch without the extra fat. Vegetarian Delight: Omit bacon entirely and sauté mushrooms or zucchini for an earthy flavor. This plant-based twist adds a hearty note that doesn’t compromise on deliciousness. Creamy Twist: For a lighter sauce, substitute heavy whipping cream with half-and-half. This change gives you a silky texture without being overly rich, perfect for warm nights. Herbal Boost: Use fresh herbs like tarragon or cilantro instead of basil for a unique flavor profile. Each herb brings its essence, allowing you to transform the dish into something truly personal. Heat Level: Adjust the crushed red pepper flakes; omit them for a milder version or add extra for a fiery kick. You can easily tailor it to suit everyone’s preferences, making it a versatile meal for all. Add Veggies: Toss in seasonal veggies like spinach, bell peppers, or cherry tomatoes for a boost of nutrition. With vibrant colors and flavors, these additions bring freshness that complements the creamy sauce. Umami Punch: Enhance flavor with a dash of soy sauce or Worcestershire sauce for unexpected depth. Just a little can elevate your dish to restaurant-quality while giving it a delightful twist. For more inspiration and variations, don’t miss my Olive Garden Pasta or Bacon Brown Sugar recipes! What to Serve with Spicy Bacon Tomato Pasta Enhance your culinary experience by pairing your creamy, flavorful masterpiece with the perfect accompaniments that balance texture and taste. Garlic Bread: This classic side is toasted to perfection, offering a crispy contrast that complements the creamy pasta beautifully. Dip it into the rich sauce for an extra tasty treat! Simple Green Salad: Fresh mixed greens drizzled with a light vinaigrette provide a refreshing crunch that cuts through the richness of the Spicy Bacon Tomato Pasta, making each bite feel lighter. Roasted Vegetables: Seasoned and caramelized, roasted seasonal veggies add depth and sweetness, creating a colorful and nutritious contrast on your plate. Sautéed Spinach: Lightly sautéed with garlic, spinach brings a vibrant burst of color and a touch of earthy flavor that pairs wonderfully with the creamy pasta. Wine Pairing: A chilled glass of Sauvignon Blanc not only enhances the flavors of the dish but also offers a crisp finish that complements the richness of the sauce. Parmesan Crisps: These crunchy, cheesy bites will add an additional layer of that lovely umami flavor, perfectly matching the bacon’s savory notes and providing delightful contrast in texture. Dessert Option: A light sorbet or gelato, perhaps lemon or berry-flavored, can cleanse the palate after enjoying the Spicy Bacon Tomato Pasta, leaving a refreshing finish to your meal. Homemade Tiramisu: An indulgent dessert like tiramisu can bring a sweet end to your dining experience, its creamy layers echoing the rich flavors of your pasta dish. How to Store and Freeze Spicy Bacon Tomato Pasta Fridge: Store your Spicy Bacon Tomato Pasta in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Allow it to cool completely before sealing to prevent condensation. Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the pasta in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. To retain the best flavor, separate the sauce and pasta if possible. Reheating: When ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the fridge if frozen. Reheat gently on the stovetop, adding a splash of cream or reserved pasta water to restore creaminess. Leftovers: If you have leftover pasta after serving, make sure to seal it promptly to retain its flavors and textures for your next meal. Spicy Bacon Tomato Pasta Recipe FAQs Which pasta is best for Spicy Bacon Tomato Pasta? Any short pasta shape such as penne or farfalle works wonderfully for this dish. They hold onto the creamy sauce beautifully, providing that satisfying bite that we all crave! I often opt for penne myself. How should I store leftover Spicy Bacon Tomato Pasta? Store your Spicy Bacon Tomato Pasta in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Ensure it cools completely before sealing to avoid condensation, which can affect the sauce’s texture. Can I freeze Spicy Bacon Tomato Pasta? Absolutely! You can freeze the pasta in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. For best results, separate the sauce from the pasta before freezing. This helps maintain texture and prevent clumping. What can I do if my sauce is too thick? If the sauce thickens too much after cooking, fear not! Simply add a splash of reserved pasta cooking water gradually while stirring until you reach your desired creamy consistency. This little trick can make a world of difference. Is this recipe suitable for anyone with dietary restrictions? This Spicy Bacon Tomato Pasta is not vegetarian, but there are ways to modify it for those looking to avoid meat. You could substitute bacon with sautéed mushrooms or even use roasted vegetables for a flavorful vegetarian twist! Always check for potential allergies with ingredients like cheese or wine. Spicy Bacon Tomato Pasta for a Quick Flavor Explosion This Spicy Bacon Tomato Pasta is a quick and delicious dish that combines creamy goodness with a kick of heat, perfect for easy weeknight dinners. Print Recipe Pin Recipe Prep Time 10 minutes minsCook Time 20 minutes minsTotal Time 30 minutes mins Servings: 4 servingsCourse: DinnerCuisine: ItalianCalories: 650 Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes Ingredients 1x2x3x? For the Pasta8 ounces short pasta (penne or farfalle)For the Sauce6 strips thick-cut bacon chopped1 medium onion chopped2 cloves garlic minced1/2 cup dry white wine2 tablespoons tomato paste double-concentrated1 cup heavy whipping cream or half-and-half1 teaspoon Italian seasoning1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes adjust to tasteFor the Finish1/2 cup Parmesan cheese freshly grated1/4 cup fresh basil choppedto taste saltto taste pepper Equipment large potskilletSlotted spooncutting boardknife Method Step-by-Step InstructionsStart by bringing a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Add your preferred short pasta, like penne or farfalle, and cook according to the package instructions until al dente, usually around 8-10 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.While the pasta is cooking, heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add chopped thick-cut bacon and cook until it's crispy and golden brown, about 6-8 minutes.In the same skillet with the bacon fat, reduce the heat to medium and add a chopped onion. Sauté for about 5-7 minutes until the onion turns translucent and softens.Next, add minced garlic to the sautéed onion, stirring for about 30 seconds. Carefully pour in a splash of dry white wine, scraping up any brown bits from the skillet.Stir in a generous dollop of tomato paste, followed by heavy whipping cream, Italian seasoning, and crushed red pepper flakes. Mix everything until smooth, allowing the sauce to gently simmer for about 5 minutes until it thickens and bubbles slightly.Once the sauce has thickened, return the crispy bacon and freshly chopped basil to the skillet. Remove from heat, and quickly stir in freshly grated Parmesan cheese.Drain the pasta, reserving a cup of pasta water. Immediately add the drained pasta to the sauce and toss well to coat each piece thoroughly. If the sauce is too thick, loosen it with a splash of reserved pasta water until you reach your desired consistency.Taste the pasta and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper as needed. Serve the dish hot, garnishing with extra Parmesan cheese and fresh basil if desired. Nutrition Serving: 1plateCalories: 650kcalCarbohydrates: 60gProtein: 25gFat: 35gSaturated Fat: 15gPolyunsaturated Fat: 5gMonounsaturated Fat: 12gCholesterol: 80mgSodium: 900mgPotassium: 350mgFiber: 3gSugar: 4gVitamin A: 600IUVitamin C: 2mgCalcium: 150mgIron: 3mg NotesExpert tips include cutting bacon into even pieces for uniform cooking, using a good quality wine, and cooking pasta just shy of al dente. Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!
