Country Style Pasta With Ricotta
A hearty pasta dish featuring crispy bacon, fresh herbs, and creamy ricotta, perfect for comforting family dinners or casual gatherings with bold, savory flavors.
Ingredients
- 2 thick slices bacon, coarsely chopped ⓘ
- 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil
- 1 medium onion, chopped ⓘ
- 1 pound part-skim Ricotta cheese ⓘ
- 1/4 cup coarsely chopped flat leaf parsley ⓘ
- 1/4 cup coarsely chopped fresh basil
- 1 tablespoon finely chopped scallion green
- 1 1/3 cups freshly grated Parmesan cheese ⓘ
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon freshly ground pepper ⓘ
- 1 pound penne rigati ⓘ
Instructions
- In a large heavy skillet, cook the bacon over moderate heat, stirring occasionally until lightly browned and the fat is rendered, about 5 minutes.
- Add the olive oil and chopped onion to the skillet.
- Reduce the heat to low and cook until the onion is softened and translucent, about 8 minutes.
- Remove from heat and set aside.
- Cook the penne rigati in boiling salted water until al dente, then drain.
- In a large bowl, combine the cooked pasta with the ricotta cheese, chopped parsley, chopped basil, and chopped scallion green.
- Mix in the cooked bacon and onion mixture.
- Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese, salt, and freshly ground pepper.
- Serve immediately garnished with additional herbs or cheese if desired.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, consider blending the ricotta with a splash of pasta water before mixing it with the other ingredients. You can substitute the bacon with pancetta or even a vegetarian option like sautéed mushrooms for a different flavor profile. Fresh herbs are key, so if you don’t have parsley or basil, try using chives or oregano instead.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this dish warm, garnished with additional Parmesan and a sprinkle of fresh herbs. It pairs beautifully with a simple green salad or crusty bread for a complete meal. For a heartier option, consider serving alongside Pork Chops, Etc. or a side of roasted vegetables for a balanced dinner.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of water to prevent sticking, or microwave in short intervals, stirring occasionally, until heated through. The pasta may absorb moisture, so a little water helps restore creaminess.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Country Style Pasta With Ricotta contains roughly 517 calories, with 17g protein, 17g carbohydrates, and 43g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (34% of the Daily Value) and calcium (24% of the Daily Value), and a good source of iron and vitamin A. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2274mg per serving (99% 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 make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the components in advance. Cook the pasta and prepare the bacon and onion mixture, then combine everything shortly before serving. This allows the flavors to meld without compromising texture. Just be sure to reheat gently to maintain creaminess.
What can I substitute for ricotta cheese?
If you’re looking for a substitute for ricotta, try using cottage cheese blended until smooth or mascarpone for a richer flavor. Cream cheese is another option but may alter the taste slightly. Adjust seasonings to balance the flavors.
Can I use a different type of pasta?
Absolutely! While penne rigati is perfect for holding the sauce, you can substitute with other shapes like rigatoni, farfalle, or even spaghetti. Just keep in mind that cooking times may vary, so adjust accordingly.
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).