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BLT Pasta

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A creamy, savory twist on the classic BLT sandwich, this pasta dish combines crispy bacon, juicy cherry tomatoes, and fresh arugula in a one-skillet meal perfect for weeknights or entertaining guests.

  • Author: Tina
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 25 minutes
  • Total Time: 40 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings
  • Category: Dinner
  • Method: Stovetop
  • Cuisine: American
  • Diet: Halal

Ingredients

1 tablespoon olive oil

½ pound bacon, cut into 1-inch pieces

2 cloves garlic, minced

2 teaspoons lemon zest

⅔ cup crème fraîche

2 cups ditalini pasta

2 cups halved cherry tomatoes

4 cups baby arugula, coarsely chopped

Salt and black pepper, to taste

1 pinch cayenne pepper, or to taste

1 tablespoon freshly shredded Parmesan cheese (optional)

Instructions

  1. Heat olive oil in a heavy skillet over medium heat. Add bacon and cook until nearly crisp, about 5–8 minutes.
  2. Turn off the heat. Use tongs and a paper towel to blot excess grease, leaving about 2 teaspoons in the pan.
  3. Stir in minced garlic and lemon zest. Let cook in the residual heat until fragrant, about 2–3 minutes.
  4. Add crème fraîche and stir to combine with the bacon mixture.
  5. Meanwhile, cook pasta in a pot of salted boiling water until tender, about 8 minutes. Drain and add to the skillet.
  6. Return skillet to medium heat. Add cherry tomatoes and stir until slightly softened, about 1 minute.
  7. Add arugula and stir until just wilted, about 30 seconds. Turn off the heat.
  8. Season with salt, black pepper, and cayenne. Stir well and garnish with Parmesan if desired. Serve immediately.

Notes

  • Swap arugula for baby spinach if preferred.
  • Crème fraîche can be replaced with sour cream or Greek yogurt.
  • Add grilled shrimp or chicken for extra protein.
  • Use gluten-free pasta for a gluten-free option.
  • Reheat gently in a skillet with a splash of cream or pasta water.

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