If you’re searching for a fresh and comforting twist on classic comfort food, this Easy BLT Pasta Recipe is about to become your new go-to favorite. Combining all the satisfying flavors of a BLT sandwich—crispy bacon, ripe juicy tomatoes, and bright fresh spinach—with perfectly cooked pasta, this dish is a wonderful way to enjoy a hearty meal without complicated steps. The creamy tomato sauce ties everything together beautifully, making it a quick dinner winner that tastes like you spent hours in the kitchen.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These ingredients are wonderfully simple but absolutely essential to creating a dish that delivers big on flavor and texture. Each one plays a key role, from the crispy bacon adding crunch, to the tomatoes bringing sweetness and juice, to the spinach providing a fresh pop of green and nutrients.
- 8 ounces uncooked pasta: Choose your favorite pasta shape; something like penne or fusilli works great to hold the sauce.
- 6 strips bacon (cut into small pieces): Bacon is the star ingredient here, providing smoky, crispy goodness that infuses the dish.
- 2 cloves garlic (minced): A little garlic adds aromatic depth that enhances every bite.
- 10 ounces little tomatoes (grape, cherry, etc., cut into halves): These burst with sweetness and color, balancing the smoky bacon.
- 1/4 cup heavy/whipping cream (optional but recommended): This adds a luscious richness that turns the sauce silky smooth.
- 2 cups (packed) fresh baby spinach: Fresh spinach provides a healthy pop of green and tender texture.
- Salt & pepper (to taste): Essential seasoning to bring all the flavors into harmony.
- Freshly grated Parmesan for serving (optional): A sprinkle of savory cheese elevates the whole dish with a nutty finish.
How to Make Easy BLT Pasta Recipe
Step 1: Cook the Pasta Al Dente
The foundation of this Easy BLT Pasta Recipe starts with perfectly cooked pasta. Boil a large pot of salted water and cook your pasta according to the package directions until just al dente. Be sure to save some pasta water before draining because you’ll add it later to create a silky, cohesive sauce with the other ingredients.
Step 2: Crisp the Bacon
While your pasta cooks, cut the bacon into small pieces—kitchen shears make this super easy! Place the bacon in a large skillet over medium heat and cook until crispy and golden brown. Then, transfer the bacon to a paper towel-lined plate to drain off excess fat. Leave about 2 tablespoons of that flavorful bacon fat in the pan; it will be key for cooking the garlic and tomatoes.
Step 3: Sauté Garlic and Tomatoes
Into the bacon fat, add the minced garlic and halved tomatoes. Cook over medium heat for about 5 minutes, gently simmering until the tomatoes soften and release their juices. You’ll see the sauce start to form—it’s crucial to keep the heat moderate to avoid over-cooking the tomatoes and losing that fresh flavor.
Step 4: Add the Cream
For a velvety touch, stir in 1/4 cup of heavy cream and cook for an additional minute. If you prefer to skip the cream, just carry on to the next step—the sauce will still be deliciously flavorful.
Step 5: Combine Pasta, Spinach, and Bacon
Before draining your pasta, remember to scoop out about a cup of pasta water. This starchy water is a secret weapon for smoothing out the sauce. Add a few tablespoons of it to the skillet, then toss in the baby spinach, the drained pasta, and crispy bacon. Stir gently until the spinach begins to wilt. If the sauce seems too thick, gradually add a little more pasta water until you reach a luscious consistency that coats every bite perfectly.
Step 6: Serve with Parmesan
Serve your Easy BLT Pasta Recipe immediately, and don’t forget a generous sprinkle of freshly grated Parmesan cheese on top, if desired. That final cheesy touch makes this simple dinner truly feel special and indulgent.
How to Serve Easy BLT Pasta Recipe
Garnishes
To elevate the dish visually and flavor-wise, consider garnishing with extra crisped bacon pieces or some fresh cracked black pepper. A few fresh basil leaves or chopped parsley also brighten the plate and enhance the freshness of the tomatoes and spinach.
Side Dishes
This Easy BLT Pasta Recipe pairs beautifully with a crisp green salad, perhaps dressed with a zesty lemon vinaigrette to balance the richness. Garlic bread or a warm baguette also makes wonderful companions that soak up every bit of that creamy sauce.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, serve this pasta in individual bowls topped with a whole basil leaf and a parmesan crisp. Alternatively, assemble it as a pasta salad tossed with the sauce, served cold or at room temperature for picnic-friendly fun.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Any leftovers of this Easy BLT Pasta Recipe can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors deepen over time, making for a tasty next-day meal.
Freezing
Because of the fresh spinach and cream, freezing isn’t ideal for this pasta dish—it may alter the texture and freshness upon thawing. It’s best enjoyed fresh or refrigerated.
Reheating
When reheating, add a splash of water or cream to loosen the sauce and warm gently on the stove or in the microwave. Stir frequently to keep the sauce silky and prevent the pasta from drying out.
FAQs
Can I use turkey bacon instead of regular bacon?
Absolutely! Turkey bacon can be a lighter alternative and will still deliver a nice smoky flavor, though the texture will be slightly different. Cook it until crisp to maximize the best results for the dish.
Is it necessary to use cream in this Easy BLT Pasta Recipe?
No, the cream is optional but highly recommended. It brings a richness that makes the sauce silky and luxurious, though the dish is still flavorful without it thanks to the bacon fat and tomato juices.
What type of pasta works best for this recipe?
Short pasta shapes like penne, fusilli, or rotini are great because their ridges and curls hold the sauce well. However, feel free to use whatever pasta you have on hand.
Can I make this recipe vegetarian?
You could try replacing bacon with smoked tempeh or mushrooms for a vegetarian twist, but it won’t have quite the same smoky depth. Consider adding smoked paprika to mimic that flavor.
How can I make this dish spicier?
If you love a little heat, add some crushed red pepper flakes when cooking the garlic and tomatoes, or sprinkle them on top before serving to give the dish a nice kick.
Final Thoughts
This Easy BLT Pasta Recipe is one of those dishes that delights every time—simple ingredients, quick steps, and flavors that hit all the right notes. Whether you’re cooking for busy weeknights or relaxed meals with friends, it’s a comforting, satisfying crowd-pleaser. I can’t wait for you to try it and make it your own kitchen favorite!
