As the sun dipped below the horizon, my kitchen was filled with the mouthwatering aroma of bacon sizzling on the stovetop. You might think it was just another weeknight, but the moment I stirred in a dollop of gochujang, everything changed. This Spicy Bacon Broccoli Orecchiette is not just a meal; it’s a delightful adventure for your taste buds. With its creamy sauce lovingly enveloping each piece of al dente pasta, you’ll discover layers of flavor that dance between savory and spicy.
Whether you’re scrambling to whip up dinner after a long day or looking to impress a group with minimal effort, this dish comes together in merely 20 minutes. Trust me, the combination of crispy bacon, tender broccoli, and that unique gochujang kick transforms your average pasta night into something extraordinary. Let’s dive into this quick and delicious recipe that’s bound to become a household favorite, reminding you that comfort food can be both easy and exciting!
Why is Spicy Bacon Broccoli Orecchiette a must-try?
Bold flavors meld in this tantalizing dish!
- Quick Preparation: Whip up this meal in just 20 minutes, perfect for busy nights!
- Savory Goodness: The crispy bacon and creamy sauce create a rich taste that you’ll crave.
- Unique Twist: Incorporating gochujang elevates this pasta from ordinary to extraordinary!
- Versatile Ingredients: Feel free to swap out veggies or pasta shapes to match what you have on hand.
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Crowd-pleasing Delight: This meal shines at family dinners or casual get-togethers, making it a fantastic go-to option for entertaining.
Transform your dinner routine and explore more quick meals with this remarkable recipe!
Spicy Bacon Broccoli Orecchiette Ingredients
For the Pasta
• Orecchiette – This main pasta shape holds the sauce beautifully; feel free to substitute other short pasta like fusilli or penne.
For the Vegetables
• Broccoli – Adds delicious texture and nutrition; you can swap it for asparagus or spinach if you prefer.
• Brown onion – An essential flavor base; shallots work well for a milder taste if needed.
• Garlic cloves – Fresh garlic delivers the best aroma; use garlic powder in a pinch if necessary.
For the Meat
• Bacon bits – Provides savory depth and saltiness; try pancetta or turkey bacon for a lighter alternative.
For the Sauce
• Dried thyme – A perfect seasoning complement; if available, fresh thyme can enhance the flavor even more.
• Tomato paste – Deepens both flavor and color; crushed tomatoes can substitute when in a hurry.
• Gochujang paste – This gives the dish a unique spicy, umami kick; adjust to your heat preference or swap with sriracha.
• Heavy cream – Creates a rich and creamy sauce; switch to coconut or soy cream for a dairy-free option.
• Freshly ground black pepper – Use for seasoning according to your taste; a dash can make a big difference!
For the Finish
• Pasta cooking water – Don’t forget to reserve some; it helps achieve the perfect sauce consistency when combining everything!
Dive into the world of flavors with this Spicy Bacon Broccoli Orecchiette, and discover how easy it is to create a fabulous meal in just minutes!
How to Make Spicy Bacon Broccoli Orecchiette
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Boil Water: Begin by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil over high heat. This will help ensure your orecchiette cooks perfectly!
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Prepare Ingredients: While waiting for the water, take a moment to dice the brown onion and mince the garlic. Chop the broccoli into bite-sized florets for even cooking.
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Cook Pasta: Add the orecchiette to the boiling water and cook it for 3 minutes less than suggested on the package. After that, toss in the broccoli florets and let them cook together for an additional 3 minutes.
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Cook Bacon: In a skillet over medium heat, cook the bacon until it’s crispy and golden brown. Then, add the diced onion and minced garlic, cooking for a fragrant 2 minutes until the onion softens.
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Make Sauce: Stir in the dried thyme, tomato paste, and gochujang paste until well combined. Pour in the heavy cream and let it simmer on low heat, letting those flavors meld together.
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Combine: Drain the pasta and broccoli, reserving a bit of the cooking water. Add the drained pasta and broccoli to the skillet, tossing everything to coat in the delicious sauce. Feel free to adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper as needed, and serve hot!
Optional: Top with extra bacon bits or a sprinkle of fresh thyme for added flavor.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
What to Serve with Spicy Bacon Broccoli Orecchiette?
Elevate your mealtime experience by pairing this delightful pasta dish with amazing sides and sips that enhance its unique flavors.
- Garlic Bread: A classic companion, the crispy texture and buttery garlic flavor perfectly balance the creamy sauce.
- Mixed Green Salad: A fresh, crisp salad with vinaigrette cuts through the richness, adding a refreshing contrast to each bite.
- Roasted Asparagus: The earthy flavor of roasted asparagus complements the dish well, bringing in a touch of elegance.
- Grilled Chicken: Juicy grilled chicken offers a lovely protein contrast, while adding a smoky flavor that enhances the overall meal.
- Chardonnay: A chilled glass of Chardonnay brings brightness and acidity, harmonizing beautifully with the richness of the creamy sauce.
- Chocolate Mousse: End the meal on a sweet note with a light chocolate mousse, complementing the spicy and savory notes of the dish.
This wonderful selection of sides and drinks ensures a balanced and memorable dining experience!
Make Ahead Options
These Spicy Bacon Broccoli Orecchiette are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can chop and store the broccoli, onion, and garlic in the refrigerator up to 3 days in advance, keeping them fresh in airtight containers. Additionally, you can cook the bacon and store it separately for up to 24 hours, ensuring maximum crispiness when you assemble the dish. When you’re ready to serve, simply cook the orecchiette and combine everything as directed, adding a splash of cream or reserved pasta water if needed to maintain the creamy consistency. By prepping ahead, you’ll enjoy a delicious homemade meal with minimal effort on busy weeknights!
Spicy Bacon Broccoli Orecchiette Variations
Feel free to get creative and customize this delightful dish to suit your taste buds!
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Vegetable Swap: Replace broccoli with zucchini or snap peas for a fresh twist. Each choice introduces a new flavor profile and crunch.
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Pasta Shape: Try using shells or radiatori instead of orecchiette. These shapes hold sauce differently, giving you a unique bite every time.
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Meat Alternatives: Switch out bacon for pancetta or chicken breast. Both lend a different but equally delicious savory note to your dish.
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Heat Flexibility: For a milder flavor, use sriracha instead of gochujang. Adjust according to your preference for a more personalized spice level.
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Dairy-Free Option: Swap heavy cream with coconut cream or almond milk for a lighter version while maintaining that creamy texture.
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Herb Infusion: Fresh basil or cilantro can be added right before serving for a vibrant finish. They introduce freshness that lifts the entire dish.
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Nuts for Crunch: Toasted pine nuts or walnuts can be sprinkled on top for satisfying texture and additional flavor complexities.
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Cheese it Up: A sprinkle of Parmesan or feta before serving enhances richness and adds a salty bite that melds beautifully with the spicy sauce.
Expert Tips for Spicy Bacon Broccoli Orecchiette
- Watch the Cooking Time: Ensuring the orecchiette is cooked al dente is crucial; overcooking can lead to a mushy texture in this pasta dish.
- Double the Greens: For added nutrition and balance, consider doubling the broccoli or incorporating other veggies; it enhances flavor and texture!
- Reserve Pasta Water: Always save some pasta cooking water before draining; it helps loosen the sauce and improves consistency when combining with the Spicy Bacon Broccoli Orecchiette.
- Adjust the Heat: If you’re unsure about the gochujang’s spiciness, start with less and gradually add more to suit your taste.
- Storage Savvy: To keep leftovers fresh, store them in an airtight container in the fridge, and for best results, reheat gently on the stovetop!
Storage Tips for Spicy Bacon Broccoli Orecchiette
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Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. This will help maintain the flavors while keeping your Spicy Bacon Broccoli Orecchiette fresh.
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Freezer: For longer storage, freeze in a freezer-safe container for up to a month. When ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
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Reheating: To reheat, warm gently on the stovetop over medium-low heat, adding a splash of cream or reserved pasta water to loosen the sauce and restore its creamy consistency.
Spicy Bacon Broccoli Orecchiette Recipe FAQs
What type of orecchiette is best for this recipe?
Absolutely! Traditional orecchiette, which translates to “little ears,” holds sauce beautifully due to its unique shape. If you’re in a pinch, other short pasta like fusilli or penne works just as well. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time according to the package instructions.
How can I store my Spicy Bacon Broccoli Orecchiette leftovers?
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To maintain the flavors while avoiding dryness, it’s best to gently reheat them on the stovetop, adding a splash of cream or reserved pasta water to loosen the sauce.
Can I freeze my Spicy Bacon Broccoli Orecchiette?
Yes! For longer storage, freeze this dish in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, thaw it overnight in the fridge. Reheat on low on the stovetop, adding a little cream or pasta cooking water to achieve that creamy goodness again.
What vegetables can I substitute for broccoli in this recipe?
Very! If broccoli isn’t your favorite, you can easily substitute it with other vegetables like zucchini, asparagus, or spinach. Each option brings a different flavor and texture, allowing you to customize the dish based on what you have on hand or what’s in season.
How can I adjust the gionjjang to suit my taste?
The gochujang paste adds a fantastic kick, but the heat level is adjustable! Start with a small amount (about 1 tablespoon), taste it, and then gradually add more to achieve your desired level of spiciness. This way, you can enjoy a dish perfectly tailored to your palate!
Is this recipe pet-friendly?
While the ingredients used in Spicy Bacon Broccoli Orecchiette are great for humans, they may not be suitable for pets. Onions and garlic, for example, are toxic to dogs and cats. Always ensure that your furry friends have their special treats instead!
Delicious Spicy Bacon Broccoli Orecchiette Ready in 20 Minutes
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Boil Water: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
- Prepare Ingredients: Dice the onion, mince garlic, and chop broccoli.
- Cook Pasta: Add the orecchiette to the boiling water and cook for 3 minutes less than package directions. Add broccoli and cook for 3 more minutes.
- Cook Bacon: In a skillet over medium heat, cook bacon until crispy, then add onion and garlic. Cook for 2 minutes.
- Make Sauce: Stir in thyme, tomato paste, and gochujang. Add heavy cream and simmer.
- Combine: Drain pasta and broccoli, reserving some water. Toss with sauce in skillet and season to taste.