BLT Spaghetti is a savory dish that brings the flavor of a bacon-lettuce-and-tomato sandwich to pasta. With crumbled bacon, crispy breadcrumbs, grape tomatoes, basil, Parmesan, and light cream, each bite delivers hearty flavor.
BLT Spaghetti: A Fresh Approach to a Classic Flavor Combination
If you grew up on classic bacon, lettuce, and tomato sandwiches, BLT Spaghetti might become your new comfort food. I have to admit that I never indulged in this classic sammich, but I was amazed at how these flavors worked together in a hot pasta dish. Imagine smoky bacon, fresh basil, and ripe tomatoes in a creamy sauce, finished with a dusting of Parmesan and bread crumbs. Although basil stands in for lettuce in this version, you can pair the dish with a favorite salad to bring all the expected sandwich flavors into a hearty pasta meal. It’s cozy, a little unexpected, and just right for your next gathering.
Why BLT Spaghetti Works
BLT Spaghetti isn’t just a clever fusion; it’s a recipe that adds new texture and flavor to pasta. Crispy bacon and buttery breadcrumbs bring crunch, while the tomatoes and basil add flavor. The light cream and Parmesan bind everything together without feeling heavy.
Step-by-Step: How to Make BLT Spaghetti
Tips for Success
- Use freshly shredded Parmesan for the best flavor.
- Make it gluten-free by swapping in gluten-free spaghetti and using crushed Rice Chex cereal for breadcrumbs.
- Don’t skip the basil—it’s the closest thing to lettuce in this pasta version of a BLT and adds a fresh flavor.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use turkey bacon?
Absolutely. Turkey bacon will work, but you’ll want to add a bit of olive oil to the pan since it renders less fat than pork bacon.
What can I use in place of bacon?
You can use pancetta or prosciutto as a substitute for bacon.
What’s the best pasta shape for this recipe?
A: Spaghetti, linguine, or shaped pasta like cavatappi work best because they soak up the creamy sauce, but feel free to use your favorite shape.
Can I make this ahead?
You can prep the components in advance, but assemble everything just before serving to keep the bacon and breadcrumbs crisp.
Can I substitute another green for the basil?
Yes, add a handful of fresh spinach leaves and stir them into the sauce at the end of cooking until wilted.
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BLT Spaghetti
Ingredients
- 16 ounces spaghetti
- 8 slices bacon, cut into small pieces
- ½ large onion, sliced vertically
- 2 cups grape or cherry tomatoes, cut in half
- 2 cloves garlic, minced and divided
- 1 ½ cups cream
- 8 large basil leaves, sliced thin
- ¼ cup Parmesan cheese, freshly shredded
- 2 tablespoons butter
- ½ cup panko bread crumbs
- extra Parmesan cheese for garnish
- salt to taste
- black pepper to taste
- extra basil leaves for garnish
Instructions
- Cook the spaghetti in lightly salted water according to the package directions. While it cooks, make the breadcrumbs and sauce.
- Add the butter to a skillet and heat over medium. Add 1 clove of garlic. Cook until fragrant. Add the breadcrumbs and cook until toasted. Set aside.
- Cook the bacon in a skillet until crispy. Remove from the pan with a slotted spoon and set aside.
- Place the tomatoes and onions in the bacon grease and cook until the onions are wilted and the tomatoes are cooked, about 5 minutes. Add 1 clove of garlic and cook until fragrant.
- Add the cream and Parmesan cheese. Stir until the cheese melts.
- Stir in the basil. Add salt and pepper to taste.
- To assemble, place spaghetti on a plate. Then add the sauce. Top with bacon, breadcrumbs, and Parmesan cheese. Garnish with extra basil leaves.