Looking to add a delicious twist to your pasta dish? Look no further than this mouthwatering recipe for pasta with tomato sauce and bacon. With the perfect combination of flavors, this dish is sure to become a new family favorite.
The rich tomato sauce provides a tangy and savory base, while the crispy bacon adds a smoky and salty kick. Together, they create a harmonious blend that will leave your taste buds craving more.
Not only is this recipe tasty, but it’s also quick and easy to make. In just under 30 minutes, you can have a satisfying meal on the table that will impress your friends and family.
Whether you’re making dinner for a crowd or simply want a comforting meal for yourself, this pasta with tomato sauce and bacon is the perfect choice. So grab your apron and get ready to indulge in a bowl of pure deliciousness.
Ingredients for Pasta with Tomato Sauce and Bacon
To make this delectable pasta dish, you will need the following ingredients:
- 8 ounces of pasta (your choice of shape)
- 4 slices of bacon
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves of garlic, minced
- 1 can (14 ounces) of diced tomatoes
- 1 tablespoon of tomato paste
- 1 teaspoon of dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon of dried basil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Grated Parmesan cheese for garnish
Step-by-Step Instructions for Cooking Pasta
- Fill a large pot with water and bring it to a boil over high heat. Add a generous pinch of salt to the boiling water.
- Add the pasta to the boiling water and cook according to the package instructions until al dente. This usually takes about 8-10 minutes.
- Once the pasta is cooked, drain it in a colander and set it aside.
Preparing the Tomato Sauce
- Heat a large skillet over medium heat. Add the bacon slices and cook until they are crispy. Remove the bacon from the skillet and set it aside on a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess grease. Once cooled, crumble the bacon into small pieces.
- In the same skillet, remove all but a tablespoon of the bacon grease. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the skillet and sauté until they are soft and fragrant.
- Add the diced tomatoes, tomato paste, dried oregano, and dried basil to the skillet. Stir well to combine all the ingredients.
- Season the sauce with salt and pepper to taste. Allow the sauce to simmer for about 10 minutes over low heat, stirring occasionally.
Cooking the Bacon
- Heat a large skillet over medium heat. Add the bacon slices and cook until they are crispy. Remove the bacon from the skillet and set it aside on a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess grease. Once cooled, crumble the bacon into small pieces.
Combining the Pasta, Tomato Sauce, and Bacon
- Add the cooked pasta to the skillet with the tomato sauce and toss until the pasta is well coated with the sauce.
- Add the crumbled bacon to the skillet and gently toss it with the pasta and sauce.
- Continue cooking the pasta and sauce mixture over low heat for another 2-3 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.
Adding Additional Ingredients and Variations
- For a touch of freshness, you can add some chopped fresh basil or parsley to the pasta just before serving.
- If you prefer a spicier kick, you can add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the tomato sauce while it simmers.
- To make it a heartier meal, you can add cooked chicken or shrimp to the pasta and sauce mixture.
- If you’re a fan of cheese, you can sprinkle some grated Parmesan or mozzarella on top of the pasta before serving.
Tips for Serving and Garnishing
- Serve the pasta with tomato sauce and bacon hot, garnished with grated Parmesan cheese and a sprig of fresh basil or parsley.
- To add a pop of color and flavor, you can drizzle a bit of extra-virgin olive oil over the finished dish.
- Serve the pasta with a side of garlic bread or a crisp green salad for a complete meal.
Recommended Side Dishes and Wine Pairings
- A side of garlic bread or a crusty baguette is a perfect complement to this pasta dish.
- For a refreshing side dish, serve a simple Caprese salad with sliced tomatoes, fresh mozzarella, and basil leaves.
- As for wine pairings, a light-bodied red wine like a Pinot Noir or a crisp white wine like a Sauvignon Blanc would pair well with the flavors of the pasta and sauce.
Conclusion and Final Thoughts
In conclusion, this recipe for pasta with tomato sauce and bacon is a crowd-pleaser that will satisfy all your cravings. The combination of tangy tomato sauce, crispy bacon, and perfectly cooked pasta creates a harmonious blend of flavors that will leave you wanting more. Whether you’re cooking for your family or hosting a dinner party, this dish is sure to impress.
The best part is that it’s quick and easy to make, taking just under 30 minutes from start to finish. With simple ingredients and straightforward instructions, you can have a satisfying meal on the table in no time.
So, next time you’re in the mood for a comforting and delicious pasta dish, give this recipe a try. Your taste buds will thank you, and your loved ones will be begging for seconds. Enjoy!