Are you ready to elevate your pasta night with a tantalizing twist? This Bacon Tomato Pasta Sauce is a game-changer, blending the savory richness of crispy bacon with the bright, tangy goodness of crushed tomatoes. In just 40 minutes, you can whip up a mouthwatering sauce that will have your taste buds dancing and your dinner guests begging for the recipe. Perfect for a cozy weeknight meal or a special occasion, this Italian-inspired dish is sure to impress. Dive into the delightful world of flavors and textures, and discover how easy it is to create a restaurant-quality pasta sauce right in your own kitchen!
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 30 mins
Total Time: 40 mins
Cuisine: Italian
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 4 slices bacon, chopped
- 1 onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can (28 ounces) crushed tomatoes
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh basil for garnish
Instructions
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add chopped bacon and cook until crisp and golden brown, stirring occasionally, about 5-6 minutes.
- Using a slotted spoon, transfer the crispy bacon to a paper towel-lined plate, leaving the bacon fat in the skillet.
- In the same skillet with bacon drippings, add diced onions and sauté until they become soft and translucent, approximately 4-5 minutes.
- Add minced garlic to the onions and cook for an additional 30-45 seconds, stirring constantly to prevent burning and release the garlic's aromatic flavors.
- Pour the entire can of crushed tomatoes into the skillet, stirring to combine with the onions and garlic. Bring the sauce to a gentle simmer.
- Reduce heat to low and let the sauce simmer uncovered for 20-25 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking and allow flavors to meld together.
- Season the sauce with salt and pepper to taste, adjusting the seasoning as needed.
- Return the crispy bacon pieces to the sauce, stirring to distribute evenly and warm through.
- Remove from heat and garnish with freshly chopped basil leaves before serving over your favorite pasta.
Tips
- Choose Quality Ingredients: For the best flavor, opt for high-quality bacon and San Marzano tomatoes if possible. Fresh ingredients can make a significant difference in the taste of your sauce.
- Don't Rush the Simmer: Allowing the sauce to simmer for the full 20-25 minutes helps the flavors meld together beautifully. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking and ensure even cooking.
- Adjust Seasoning: Taste your sauce before serving and adjust the salt and pepper to your preference. You can also add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a little heat!
- Pasta Pairing: This sauce pairs wonderfully with a variety of pasta shapes, but consider using something like fettuccine or penne to hold onto the sauce better.
- Garnish with Fresh Basil: Fresh basil adds a pop of color and a burst of flavor. Don't skip this step—it's the perfect finishing touch to your dish!
- Make It Ahead: This sauce can be made in advance and stored in the refrigerator for up to three days or frozen for up to three months. Just reheat and serve over freshly cooked pasta!
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 220kcal
Carbohydrates: 12g
Protein: 8g
Fat: 16g
Saturated Fat: 5g
Cholesterol: 20mg
