bacon stir fry with pasta

Bacon Stir Fry with Pasta Recipe

This bacon stir fry with pasta is a perfect weeknight dinner that’s easy to prepare, full of flavor, and sure to satisfy the whole family. Combining the savory richness of bacon with fresh vegetables and pasta, this dish is a delightful fusion of textures and tastes.

Ingredients

For the pasta:

• 12 oz (340 g) of your choice of pasta (spaghetti, fettuccine, or penne work well)
• Salt for boiling water

For the stir fry:

• 8 slices of bacon, chopped into bite-sized pieces
• 1 medium onion, thinly sliced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 bell pepper (red or yellow), thinly sliced
• 1 zucchini, halved lengthwise and sliced into half-moons
• 1 cup broccoli florets
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
• 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for a bit of heat)
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
• 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese, plus more for serving
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• Fresh parsley or basil for garnish

Instructions

1. Cook the Pasta

1. Fill a large pot with water, add a generous pinch of salt, and bring it to a boil.
2. Add the pasta and cook according to the package instructions until al dente.
3. Once cooked, drain the pasta, reserving about 1/2 cup of the pasta water. Set aside.

2. Prepare the Bacon

1. In a large skillet or wok, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat.
2. Add the chopped bacon to the pan. Cook until it becomes crispy and golden brown, stirring occasionally to ensure even cooking.
3. Use a slotted spoon to remove the bacon from the pan, leaving the rendered fat in the skillet. Set the cooked bacon aside on a paper towel-lined plate to drain any excess grease.

3. Stir Fry the Vegetables

1. In the same skillet with the bacon fat, add the sliced onion and cook until it becomes soft and translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
2. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional 30 seconds until fragrant.
3. Next, add the bell pepper, zucchini, and broccoli. Stir fry the vegetables until they are tender but still crisp, about 5-7 minutes.
4. Add the cherry tomatoes and cook for another 2 minutes until they begin to soften.

4. Combine Ingredients

1. Lower the heat to medium-low. Return the cooked bacon to the skillet with the vegetables.
2. Add the cooked pasta to the skillet, tossing everything together to combine.
3. If the mixture seems dry, add a splash of the reserved pasta water to help create a sauce.
4. Season with smoked paprika, red pepper flakes (if using), salt, and freshly ground black pepper. Toss again to ensure the seasonings are evenly distributed.

5. Final Touches

1. Sprinkle 1/4 cup of grated Parmesan cheese over the pasta and stir until the cheese is melted and coats the pasta and vegetables.
2. Drizzle the remaining tablespoon of olive oil over the top for added richness and flavor.

6. Serve

1. Transfer the bacon stir fry with pasta to a large serving dish or individual plates.
2. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley or basil and an extra sprinkle of Parmesan cheese.
3. Serve immediately while the dish is warm.

Tips and Variations

• Pasta Choice: While spaghetti or fettuccine work great, feel free to use any pasta shape you prefer. Penne or rotini are excellent options as their ridges help trap the sauce.
• Vegetable Variations: The vegetables in this recipe can be easily swapped with whatever you have on hand. Mushrooms, spinach, or snap peas can be great additions or substitutes.
• Add Protein: For a more substantial meal, consider adding cooked chicken, shrimp, or even tofu.
• Make it Creamy: If you prefer a creamier dish, stir in a splash of heavy cream or a dollop of crème fraîche before serving.

Storage and Reheating

• Storage: Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Reheating: Reheat in a skillet over medium heat, adding a bit of water or olive oil to help loosen the pasta as it warms.

Serving Suggestions

This bacon stir fry with pasta pairs well with a simple side salad or garlic bread. A light white wine, such as Pinot Grigio or Sauvignon Blanc, would complement the dish beautifully. For a non-alcoholic option, a sparkling water with a slice of lemon adds a refreshing touch.

Conclusion

This bacon stir fry with pasta is a versatile and flavorful dish that can be easily tailored to your tastes. The combination of crispy bacon, fresh vegetables, and perfectly cooked pasta makes it a go-to recipe for any occasion. Whether you’re cooking for family, friends, or just yourself, this dish is sure to impress. Enjoy!