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If you’re a fan of the classic BLT sandwich, then you’re in for a treat with this delicious BLT Pasta recipe. It’s a comforting dish that brings together the beloved flavors of bacon, lettuce (or spinach, in this case), and tomatoes in a whole new way. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a special weekend meal, this recipe is sure to become a family favorite.

BLT Pasta is a favorite in our house during the end of summer with fresh garden tomatoes. Fresh tomatoes are just bursting with flavor and pair really well with the salty bacon. Plus, I love a recipe that uses them at the end of summer since my counters are overfilled with them! But no worries, that is a problem I love!

Tomatotes in a shirt
Summertime tomatoes are a blessing to have in your backyard.

Try this recipe and fall in love with it, too! 

Ingredients:

  • 1 Box Pasta
    • Your choice, but penne or a rigatoni work well.
  • 10-12 slices of Bacon
    • More if you would like!   
  • 6 Medium/Large Tomatoes
    • Cherry or grape tomatoes look nice, but any variety will do.
    • Feel free to skin the tomatoes before use. But not necessary. 
  • 1 tsp Chicken broth Concentrate
    • You can use a normal broth here! You will just need to make sure to add a few more minutes to the cook time for the sauce in order for it to not be too liquidy. 
    • If you have never used concentrated broth before…it’s a beautiful thing! Never run out of broth again! The one linked has an incredible flavor.
  • 2-3 Cloves Garlic 
  • Parmesan cheese 
    • For garnishing at the table.
  • Optional: Spinach 

Note: I did not add the spinach this time because I didn’t have any on hand. But a great way to get in some greens!. 

This is how I did a quick dice of my tomatoes. Fresh cook down pretty well.

Instructions:

  1. Cook the Pasta: Start by boiling your pasta according to the package instructions. Be sure to cook it just to al dente, as it will continue to cook slightly when mixed with the sauce. Before draining, reserve about 2 cups of the pasta cooking liquid. This starchy water will help thicken and flavor the sauce later on.
  2. Cook the Bacon: While the pasta is cooking, heat a large skillet over medium heat. Cook the bacon until it’s crispy, then remove it from the pan and set it aside on a paper towel-lined plate. Leave most of the bacon grease in the skillet—this is where the magic happens!
  3. Add the Garlic: Let the garlic bloom a bit in the bacon before adding your tomatoes. This process will go quickly, about 30 seconds. Make sure to not let the garlic burn, you want to smell the garlic and see it gently change color.
  4. Cook the Tomatoes: In the same skillet, add your cut tomatoes to the bacon grease. Cook them down until they start to release their juices, creating a beautiful, savory base for the sauce. The bacon fat will enhance the natural sweetness of the tomatoes, making them even more delicious.
  5. Add the Chicken Broth Concentrate: Once the tomatoes have softened and released a good amount of liquid, add the chicken broth concentrate to the pan. About 1 tsp is enough to give the sauce a bit more depth. If using liquid broth, add about a cup and let it cook down for a few extra minutes. 
  6. Combine the Pasta and Sauce: Toss the cooked pasta into the skillet with the tomato mixture, starting with about half of the reserved pasta water. Stir everything together, allowing the pasta to soak up the sauce. If the dish looks too dry, add more pasta water until you reach your desired consistency.
  7. Add the Bacon and Spinach: Crumble the cooked bacon and either mix it into the pasta or sprinkle it on top when serving. If you’re adding spinach, now’s the time to toss it in, letting the residual heat from the pasta wilt the leaves just enough.
  8. Serve and Enjoy: Dish up your BLT Pasta, we recommend with a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese. This hearty meal combines the crispy, salty goodness of bacon with the freshness of tomatoes and spinach, all brought together by a luscious sauce.
Used a Dutch Oven
No Parm
BLT pasta
With Part

Get Cooking! 

This BLT Pasta is a simple yet satisfying dish that transforms everyday ingredients into something special. It’s an excellent way to get kids to enjoy their veggies, thanks to the irresistible flavors of bacon and garlic. Whether you’re a busy parent looking for a quick dinner option or just craving a comforting meal, this recipe is sure to hit the spot. Enjoy!