Pasta with bacon and sour cream

Delicious macaroni recipe with bacon and cream

If you're looking for a quick and tasty recipe that will bring your family to the table in no time, you've come to the right place! Macaroni with bacon and cream is a perfect choice for a relaxing dinner or a delicious lunch. This recipe not only cooks quickly but is also full of flavor, being a delightful combination of simple yet effective ingredients.

Preparation time: 10 minutes
Cooking time: 20 minutes
Total time: 30 minutes
Servings: 4

Necessary ingredients:
- 500 g macaroni (preferably penne or fusilli to hold the sauce)
- 500 g bacon (thinly sliced)
- 250 ml liquid cream (you can also use cooking cream with 30% fat for a creamier sauce)
- A handful of grated cheese (Parmesan or cheddar, according to preference)
- 25 g margarine for frying (or butter for a richer taste)
- Salt (to taste)
- Pepper (to taste)
- Dried thyme (optional, for intense flavor)
- Dried tarragon (optional, for a special taste)

Recipe story:
Macaroni with bacon and cream is a comfort food recipe that has gained popularity in many cultures. This recipe stands out for its simplicity, but also for the unique flavor brought by the combination of crispy bacon and creamy sauce. It is often prepared in families, making it an excellent choice for a Sunday lunch or a quick dinner during the week.

Preparation steps:
1. Start by bringing a large pot of water to a boil. Add a tablespoon of salt to the water to flavor the macaroni. Once the water is boiling, add the macaroni and cook according to the package instructions, usually between 8 and 10 minutes, until al dente.

2. Meanwhile, in a large skillet, add the margarine and let it melt over medium heat. Be careful not to let the margarine burn! Once it has melted and is well heated, add the bacon. Cook the bacon for about 5-7 minutes, until it becomes crispy and releases its aroma.

3. After the bacon is ready, reduce the heat to low and add the cream. Stir well to incorporate the bacon into the cream. Let the sauce simmer gently for 2-3 minutes until it thickens and becomes creamy. If you want a thinner sauce, you can add a few tablespoons of water from the macaroni.

4. Once the macaroni is cooked, drain it well and add it to the skillet with the cream and bacon sauce. Gently mix everything to coat the macaroni with the sauce.

5. Now is the perfect time to add the grated cheese. Stir well to let the cheese melt and integrate into the sauce. You can also add pepper, thyme, and dried tarragon if you want a unique flavor.

6. Serve the macaroni hot, sprinkled with a little grated cheese on top. Enjoy your meal!

Useful tips:
- If you want an extra texture, you can add some vegetables like peas or spinach in the last minutes of cooking the macaroni.
- Instead of bacon, you can use ham or even sliced chicken breast for a lighter version.
- Experiment with cheese! You can use goat cheese or feta for a different flavor.
- Cook larger portions and keep them in the fridge. This recipe reheats very well and is perfect for office lunches.

Nutritional benefits:
This recipe provides a good source of carbohydrates from macaroni, protein from bacon and cream, as well as healthy fats if you choose to use butter instead of margarine. Bacon adds a savory taste but can be part of a balanced diet when consumed in moderation.

Frequently asked questions:
1. Can I replace bacon with a vegetarian alternative?
Yes, you can use smoked tofu or tempeh to achieve a similar flavor without meat.
2. What type of cream is best for this recipe?
Cream with a higher fat content, such as cooking cream, provides a creamier sauce.
3. How can I make this recipe spicier?
By adding a little chili pepper to the sauce or sprinkling chili flakes on top, you can achieve a spicy version.

These macaroni with bacon and cream are an excellent choice for any occasion. Cook them with love and enjoy every bite!