Pasta with bacon, cream cheese, sour cream, and tomato paste

Macaroni with bacon, cream cheese, sour cream, and tomato paste

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

Welcome to the world of culinary delights! Today, I will share with you a recipe that combines flavor and comfort in one dish: macaroni with bacon, cream cheese, sour cream, and tomato paste. This recipe is not only simple and quick but also extremely versatile, perfect for a family dinner or a gathering with friends.

The history of these macaroni is interesting, with roots in comfort food kitchens, where simple ingredients quickly transform into delicious meals. Whether you grew up with family pasta recipes or discovered the joy of cooking in a moment of inspiration, this dish will surely become one of your favorites.

Ingredients needed:

- 250 g macaroni
- 1 red bell pepper
- 1 medium onion
- 2-3 garlic cloves
- 150 g bacon
- 2 tablespoons cream cheese
- 2 tablespoons sour cream
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste
- A handful of fresh parsley
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Olive oil for sautéing

Step by step to culinary delight:

1. Boil the macaroni: In a large pot, add salted water and bring to a boil. When the water is boiling, add the macaroni and cook according to the package instructions, usually between 8 and 10 minutes. Make sure to check them so they don’t get too soft. After boiling, drain and set aside.

2. Prepare the sauce: In a large skillet, add 1-2 tablespoons of olive oil and heat over medium heat. Dice the red bell pepper and onion, and slice the garlic thinly. Add the onion and bell pepper to the skillet, sautéing them for 3-4 minutes until they become soft and slightly caramelized.

3. Add the bacon: Cut the bacon into small pieces and add it to the skillet. Let it fry until crispy, stirring occasionally. The delicious aroma will fill the entire kitchen!

4. Incorporate the cream cheese: Once the bacon is cooked, add the cream cheese to the skillet. Mix well to allow the cheese to melt and combine with the other ingredients.

5. Add the sour cream and tomato paste: After the cream cheese is completely melted, add the sour cream and tomato paste. Stir everything together to create a creamy and smooth sauce. Season with salt, pepper, chopped fresh parsley, and dried oregano. Let the sauce simmer on low heat for 2-3 minutes to blend the flavors.

6. Combine the macaroni with the sauce: Once the sauce is ready, add the drained macaroni to the skillet, stirring well to coat them evenly with the delicious sauce. Let everything heat together for one minute.

7. Serve: Divide the macaroni onto plates and garnish with a bit of fresh parsley for a pop of color and freshness. These macaroni with bacon and creamy sauce are ready to enjoy!

Practical tips:

- Choose the right ingredients: Use quality bacon for a richer flavor. If you prefer a healthier option, try turkey bacon or a lean meat alternative.
- Vegetable variations: You can also add other vegetables, such as zucchini or spinach, to enrich the dish with additional nutrients.
- Delicious sides: These macaroni pair perfectly with a fresh green salad or a side of grilled vegetables.
- Recommended drinks: Offer a bottle of dry white wine or a mint lemonade cocktail to complement the meal.

Frequently asked questions:

1. Can I use whole grain pasta? Yes, you can replace regular macaroni with whole grain pasta for a healthier option, but it may take a bit longer to cook.
2. How can I make the recipe vegetarian? You can omit the bacon and replace the cream cheese with a plant-based version, resulting in a delicious vegetarian dish.
3. What can I do with leftovers? The macaroni can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or in a skillet with a splash of water to bring them back to life.

Nutrition and calories:

This macaroni with bacon recipe contains approximately 600 calories per serving, being a good source of protein and carbohydrates. Additionally, ingredients like red bell pepper and parsley add vitamins and antioxidants, contributing to a balanced diet.

Whether you are an experienced cook or just starting to explore your skills in the kitchen, this macaroni with bacon, cream cheese, sour cream, and tomato paste recipe is a perfect example of how simple ingredients can transform into something truly special. So, don’t hesitate to experiment and add your personal touch! Enjoy your meal!