Bacon Spaghetti
A hearty and smoky spaghetti dish featuring crispy bacon, blended tomatoes, garlic, and onions, perfect for comfort food lovers and versatile for any casual meal.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cut bacon into pieces and fry until crisp.
- Put tomatoes and Ro-Tel in blender and blend for 1 minute.
- Pour the blended tomatoes into a saucepan and heat thoroughly.
- Saute chopped onion and minced garlic until fragrant.
- Add the sautéed onion and garlic to the tomato mixture.
- Cook spaghetti separately until al dente.
- Add cooked spaghetti to the tomato mixture and stir in the bacon pieces.
- Serve hot.
Tips & Substitutions
For a smoky flavor, consider using smoked bacon or adding a touch of smoked paprika. If you want a vegetarian option, substitute bacon with sautéed mushrooms and use vegetable broth instead of the canned tomatoes. Fresh herbs like basil or oregano can enhance the flavor as well. For a creamier sauce, stir in a bit of heavy cream before serving.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this Bacon Spaghetti hot, garnished with freshly grated parmesan cheese and a sprinkle of black pepper. A side salad with a light vinaigrette complements the dish well. For a heartier meal, pair it with garlic bread or a classic Maine Fish Chowder for a comforting combination.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm in a saucepan over medium heat, adding a splash of water or broth to loosen the sauce, or microwave in short intervals until heated through. Avoid reheating multiple times to maintain texture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Bacon Spaghetti contains roughly 395 calories, with 10g protein, 43g carbohydrates, and 21g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (21% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin C and iron. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 588mg per serving (26% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use turkey bacon instead of regular bacon?
Yes, you can use turkey bacon as a lighter alternative. It will have a different flavor profile and may not get as crispy, but it will still add a nice smoky taste to the dish. Just ensure to cook it thoroughly before adding to the spaghetti.
What kind of pasta works best for this recipe?
While spaghetti is traditional, you can use any pasta shape you prefer, such as fettuccine, penne, or even gluten-free options. The key is to cook the pasta until al dente for the best texture when mixed with the sauce.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the sauce and cook the pasta ahead of time. Store them separately in the refrigerator and combine them just before serving. This helps maintain the pasta's texture and flavor. Reheat gently to avoid overcooking.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).