Ingredients

For the Pasta:

• 200g pasta (your choice of type: spaghetti, penne, fusilli, etc.)
• Butter (for cooking)
• Vegetable oil (for cooking)

For the Beef Bacon and Vegetables:

• 150g beef bacon (cut into small pieces)
• 1 onion (diced)
• 3 cloves garlic (minced)
• 1 carrot (grated)
• 4 mushrooms (sliced)
• 3 tomatoes (blanched, peeled, and chopped)

For the Fresh Herbs:

• Fresh parsley (chopped)
• Spring onions (chopped)
• Fresh basil (chopped)

For the Final Touch:

• Salt (to taste)
• Ground black pepper (to taste)
• 1 cup mozzarella cheese (grated)
• 8-10 cherry tomatoes (halved)
• 2 tbsp plain yogurt
• Parmesan cheese (for grating over the top)

Prep Time, Cooking Time, and Total Time

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cooking Time: 25 minutes
• Total Time: 40 minutes

Servings and Nutrition Facts

• Servings: 4
• Calories per Serving: 600 kcal (approximately, varies based on ingredients used)
• Protein: 30 g
• Carbohydrates: 75 g
• Fat: 25 g
• Fiber: 6 g
• Sugar: 8 g

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Pasta

1. Boil the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and add the pasta. Cook the pasta according to the package instructions, usually about 8-10 minutes, until al dente. Once cooked, drain the pasta, reserving a small cup of pasta water for later use.
2. Drizzle with Oil: Once drained, drizzle a small amount of vegetable oil over the pasta to keep it from sticking together.

Step 2: Cook the Beef Bacon

1. Cook the Beef Bacon: Heat a large pan over medium heat and add a bit of butter and vegetable oil. Once hot, add the beef bacon pieces and cook until crispy and golden brown. This will take about 5-7 minutes, depending on the thickness of the bacon. Remove from the pan and set aside on a paper towel to drain excess oil.

Step 3: Prepare the Vegetables

1. Sauté the Onion and Garlic: In the same pan, add a little more butter and vegetable oil if needed. Add the diced onion and minced garlic, cooking until they become soft and translucent (about 3-4 minutes). The onions should be fragrant and slightly golden.
2. Add the Carrot and Mushrooms: Add the grated carrot and sliced mushrooms to the pan, stirring occasionally until the vegetables are tender and have cooked down, about 5-7 minutes.

Step 4: Prepare the Tomatoes

1. Blanch the Tomatoes: To prepare the tomatoes, bring a small pot of water to a boil. Make a small “X” on the bottom of each tomato with a knife. Carefully place the tomatoes into the boiling water for about 30 seconds until the skin starts to peel away.
2. Peel and Chop the Tomatoes: Remove the tomatoes from the boiling water and place them in a bowl of ice water. Once cooled, peel off the skin, remove the seeds, and chop the tomatoes into small pieces.

Step 5: Combine the Ingredients

1. Add the Fresh Herbs: Once the vegetables are tender, stir in the chopped fresh parsley, spring onions, and basil. Add the chopped tomatoes to the pan and cook for a further 2-3 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
2. Mix in the Cooked Pasta: Add the drained, cooked pasta to the vegetable and beef bacon mixture. Toss everything together so that the pasta is evenly coated with the sauce and vegetables. If the mixture seems a bit dry, add a small amount of reserved pasta water to help create a sauce-like consistency.

Step 6: Add Cheese and Yogurt

1. Stir in the Mozzarella: Sprinkle the grated mozzarella cheese over the pasta and toss until the cheese begins to melt into the sauce. The mozzarella will create a gooey, cheesy texture throughout the pasta.
2. Mix in the Yogurt: Add the 2 tablespoons of plain yogurt for a creamy texture. The yogurt will help balance the richness of the cheese and the savory beef bacon.

Step 7: Garnish and Serve

1. Add Cherry Tomatoes: Halve the cherry tomatoes and gently fold them into the pasta. This will add a burst of freshness and color to the dish.
2. Grate Parmesan: Finally, grate a generous amount of Parmesan cheese over the top of the pasta for a rich, salty finish.
3. Serve: Dish up the pasta into bowls or plates, making sure to scoop up some of the beef bacon and vegetables along with the pasta. Serve immediately and enjoy!

Why This Recipe is Timeless

This Hearty Beef Bacon Pasta with Vegetables has all the makings of a timeless classic: simplicity, flavor, and versatility. Pasta has long been a go-to meal across the globe, and when combined with the savory richness of beef bacon and a medley of fresh vegetables, it becomes an instant comfort food. The mozzarella adds creaminess, while the Parmesan offers a sharp, salty finish that elevates the dish.

The inclusion of vegetables such as mushrooms, carrots, and tomatoes not only enhances the flavor profile but also adds a nutritious balance to the dish. The fresh herbs—parsley, basil, and spring onions—bring brightness and freshness that cut through the richness of the cheese and bacon, providing layers of flavor with every bite.

One of the reasons this recipe has endured is that it can be easily adapted based on what you have on hand. You can swap out vegetables depending on the season or your preferences, use different types of cheese, or add extra protein like chicken or sausage. It’s one of those recipes that never goes out of style because it’s always possible to make it your own.

The combination of creamy, cheesy pasta with the crispy beef bacon and fresh vegetables offers a well-rounded, satisfying meal that can be enjoyed by all ages. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or preparing a cozy dinner for yourself, this dish brings comfort and warmth to any table.

Nutrition Facts

• Calories per Serving: 600 kcal
• Protein: 30 g
• Carbohydrates: 75 g
• Fat: 25 g
• Fiber: 6 g
• Sugar: 8 g

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Can I use turkey bacon instead of beef bacon?

Yes, turkey bacon can be used as a leaner alternative. It will provide a similar texture, though the flavor will be milder than beef bacon.

Can I make this recipe vegetarian?

Absolutely! To make this recipe vegetarian, simply omit the beef bacon and add additional vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, or spinach. You could also substitute the bacon with plant-based bacon alternatives.

Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?

Yes, this pasta dish can be made ahead of time. Simply store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. When ready to serve, reheat it in the microwave or on the stovetop, adding a bit of pasta water if needed to loosen the sauce.

What type of pasta is best for this dish?

While you can use any type of pasta you like, we recommend a hearty pasta like penne, fusilli, or rigatoni, which can hold up well to the rich sauce. Spaghetti or linguine also works great if you prefer long noodles.

Tips for Perfecting Your Hearty Beef Bacon Pasta

1. Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh vegetables and herbs will provide the most flavor and color to the dish. Don’t substitute dried herbs for fresh ones, as they will not give the same depth of flavor.
2. Don’t Overcook the Pasta: Be sure to cook the pasta al dente, as it will continue to cook slightly when you mix it with the hot ingredients. Overcooked pasta can become mushy and lose its texture.
3. Experiment with Cheese: Feel free to experiment with different types of cheese. A mix of mozzarella and gouda or cheddar could add a wonderful depth of flavor.

Storage Tips

Store leftover pasta in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. If the pasta seems dry when reheating, add a splash of milk or reserved pasta water to revive the sauce.

Conclusion

This Hearty Beef Bacon Pasta with Vegetables is more than just a meal; it’s an experience. The savory bacon, fresh vegetables, and creamy mozzarella come together to create a dish that’s rich in flavor yet balanced enough for everyday enjoyment. Whether you’re making it for a casual dinner or a special occasion, this pasta will surely delight anyone who gets a taste. So next time you’re in need of a comforting, satisfying meal, reach for this recipe and enjoy the timeless appeal of a pasta dish done right.