Jump to Recipe Print RecipeAs I stirred the pot, the aroma of sizzling bacon mixed with a hint of garlic enveloped my kitchen, transporting me to a cozy Italian eatery. This Spicy Bacon Broccoli Orecchiette combines comfort with a dash of excitement, perfect for those nights when you crave a satisfying meal but are short on time. In just 20 minutes, you’ll have a creamy, delicious pasta dish that features vibrant broccoli and a unique kick from gochujang, making it an instant favorite for your weeknight dinners. Not only is this dish quick to prepare, but it’s also adaptable; feel free to swap in your favorite short pasta or tweak the spice level to suit your taste. Ready to bring some fire to your dinner table? Let’s dive into this delightful recipe! Why Is This Pasta Dish a Must-Try? Simplicity at Its Finest: With just 20 minutes from start to finish, you can whip up this delicious dinner without breaking a sweat. Flavorful Kick: The addition of gochujang elevates this creamy pasta into an experience that tantalizes your taste buds while keeping things interesting. Versatility Galore: Feel free to switch up the ingredients or pasta types, making it a canvas for your culinary creativity. Perfect for Any Occasion: This dish appeals to both busy families and home chefs; it’s hearty enough for a comforting weeknight or a special gathering. Crowd-Pleasing Results: Combine crispy bacon with vibrant broccoli for a colorful presentation and flavors that will leave everyone asking for seconds! Ready to excite your palate? Dive into the full recipe and let the cooking begin! Spicy Bacon Broccoli Orecchiette Ingredients For the Pasta • Orecchiette – Short pasta shape that traps the sauce effectively; substitute with any short pasta like penne or fusilli. • Salt – Enhances flavor; adjust to taste. For the Vegetable Mix • Broccoli – Adds texture and nutritional value; substitute with zucchini or green beans if necessary. • Onion – Essential for building flavor in the sauce; freshly diced shallots can be used as a substitute. • Garlic – Imparts aromatic flavor; use garlic powder in a pinch, but fresh is recommended for maximum impact. For the Sauce • Bacon – Provides savory flavor; use pancetta or turkey bacon for a lighter option. • Dried Thyme – Adds earthy herb notes; substitute with Italian seasoning if unavailable. • Tomato Paste – Deepens the sauce’s color and flavor; can be replaced with crushed tomatoes for a fresher taste. • Gochujang Paste – Provides spiciness without overwhelming heat; adjust quantity based on heat tolerance, or substitute with sriracha if needed. • Heavy Cream – Creates a rich, smooth sauce; for a dairy-free option, try soy cream or unsweetened coconut cream. • Freshly Ground Black Pepper – Adds finishing heat and flavor; substitute with white pepper for a more subtle taste. Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Spicy Bacon Broccoli Orecchiette Step 1: Boil the Water and Prepare Ingredients Fill a large pot with water, add a generous pinch of salt, and bring it to a boil over high heat. While the water heats up, dice one onion, mince three cloves of garlic, and chop your broccoli into bite-sized florets. This preparation is crucial for the Spicy Bacon Broccoli Orecchiette to ensure everything is ready for quick cooking. Step 2: Cook the Orecchiette and Broccoli Once the water is at a rapid boil, add the orecchiette and cook for 3 minutes less than the package instructions state. After that time, introduce the chopped broccoli to the pot and continue cooking for an additional 3 minutes. This two-step cooking method ensures perfectly al dente pasta and vibrant broccoli, creating an eye-catching mix for your dish. Step 3: Sauté the Bacon and Aromatics While the pasta and broccoli cook, heat a large skillet over medium-high heat and add diced bacon. Cook the bacon for about 5-7 minutes, or until it turns crispy and golden-brown. Once the bacon is ready, toss in the diced onion and minced garlic, sautéing for an additional 2 minutes until the onion is translucent and fragrant, forming the base of your flavorful sauce. Step 4: Build the Sauce Stir in 1 teaspoon of dried thyme, followed by 2 tablespoons of tomato paste and 1 tablespoon of gochujang, mixing everything thoroughly to combine. Cook this mixture for 2-3 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together. Pour in 1 cup of heavy cream and reduce the heat to low, letting the sauce simmer gently for about 5 minutes until it is rich and creamy. Step 5: Combine Pasta and Sauce Once the orecchiette and broccoli are cooked, drain them, reserving ½ cup of the cooking water. Add the drained pasta and broccoli directly into the skillet with the creamy sauce. Toss everything together, adding reserved cooking water as needed to achieve your desired sauce consistency, ensuring each piece of the Spicy Bacon Broccoli Orecchiette is well-coated. Step 6: Season and Serve Finally, generously season the pasta with salt to taste and finish with freshly ground black pepper for that perfect hint of spice. Serve the dish immediately, allowing everyone to relish in the delightful flavors of your Spicy Bacon Broccoli Orecchiette. Enjoy it hot, straight from the skillet, for a comforting, satisfying meal. Variations & Substitutions for Spicy Bacon Broccoli Orecchiette Feel free to take this dish and make it your own with these delicious adaptations! Pasta Swap: Use any short pasta like penne or fusilli to tailor the dish to your pantry staples. It’s all about what you love! Vegetarian Delight: Omit the bacon and replace it with hearty mushrooms or tempeh for a robust umami flavor that won’t disappoint. Your vegetarian friends will thank you! Dairy-Free Creaminess: Try soy cream or unsweetened coconut cream for a rich, dairy-free twist that still delivers on indulgence. This way, everyone can join in the creamy goodness! Extra Veggies: Toss in other vibrant vegetables such as bell peppers or spinach for added nutrition and color. You can never go wrong with more greens on your plate! Flavor Boost: Mix in fresh herbs like basil or cilantro at the end for a burst of freshness that elevates the dish. These fresh ingredients bring a delightful contrast to the rich sauce. Heat Level Adjust: Customize the spice by adding red pepper flakes in addition to the gochujang or topping with fresh jalapeño slices for a spicy kick. You control the heat! Nuttier Flavor: Stir in toasted sesame oil along with the cream for an unexpected, delightful twist that enhances the overall umami profile. Quick Tomato Twist: Swap the tomato paste for crushed tomatoes to add a fresher flavor and a hint of sweetness that rounds out the spicy notes. Every variation adds its own special touch, making this dish versatile enough to charm any palate. And if you’re looking for more ideas, consider checking out my recipes for Creamy Garlic Parmesan Pasta or Gochujang Chicken Stir-Fry for even more culinary inspiration! Expert Tips for Spicy Bacon Broccoli Orecchiette Pasta Timing: Ensure the orecchiette is slightly undercooked before adding broccoli. This prevents it from becoming mushy, keeping that perfect al dente texture. Adjust the Spice: When adding gochujang, start with a smaller amount to gauge heat levels. You can always add more later if you prefer a stronger kick. Creamy Texture: Incorporating a splash of reserved pasta cooking water helps bind the sauce to the Spicy Bacon Broccoli Orecchiette, making it creamier and more flavorful. Ingredient Swaps: Feel free to substitute ingredients for what you have on hand. For instance, turkey bacon or tempeh can lighten the dish without sacrificing flavor. Garnish for Flair: Adding fresh herbs or a sprinkle of cheese on top before serving enhances both presentation and flavor, making your meal truly irresistible. How to Store and Freeze Spicy Bacon Broccoli Orecchiette Fridge: Keep leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat or in the microwave to avoid overcooking the pasta. Freezer: For longer storage, freeze portions in airtight containers or freezer bags for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating. Reheating: When reheating, add a splash of water or cream to restore the creamy texture of the sauce. Stir well and heat until warmed through, ensuring it remains enjoyable. Assembly Tip: If you plan to freeze, consider portioning the Spicy Bacon Broccoli Orecchiette without the cream and sauce mixed in—this helps maintain texture and flavor upon reheating. Make Ahead Options These Spicy Bacon Broccoli Orecchiette are perfect for busy home cooks looking to save valuable time during the week! You can prep the bacon and sautéed vegetables (onion and garlic) up to 3 days in advance, storing them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. The broccoli can also be chopped ahead of time, ready for quick cooking. On the day you’ll serve your meal, simply cook the orecchiette and broccoli as instructed, reheat the bacon and veggie mixture in a skillet, and incorporate the heavy cream and sauce ingredients. This method ensures you’ll enjoy a delicious, homemade pasta dish with minimal effort, retaining all the comforting flavors you love! What to Serve with Spicy Bacon Broccoli Orecchiette A delightful pasta meal deserves equally charming companions to elevate your dining experience. Garden Salad: A fresh mix of greens with a zesty vinaigrette adds a crisp contrast to the creamy pasta. It lightens up the meal, balancing flavors beautifully. Garlic Bread: Crisp, buttery garlic bread complements the richness of the orecchiette, making it a perfect vehicle for any leftover sauce. Plus, who can resist that comforting aroma? Roasted Vegetables: Roasting seasonal veggies brings out their natural sweetness, providing a lovely caramelized flavor that pairs wonderfully with the dish’s spicy notes. Parmesan Crisps: These crunchy cheese snacks add a delightful texture, enhancing the umami flavors in the pasta. They’re easy to make and add a gourmet touch to your dinner table. Chilled White Wine: A glass of chilled Sauvignon Blanc or another light white wine adds a refreshing element, cutting through the rich creaminess of the orecchiette. It’s the perfect way to unwind after a long day. Chocolate Mousse: For dessert, a velvety chocolate mousse provides a sweet, luxurious finish to your meal. Its rich yet airy texture contrasts nicely with the bold spices of the pasta. Spicy Bacon Broccoli Orecchiette Recipe FAQs What type of broccoli should I use for this recipe? Absolutely! Fresh broccoli works best for Spicy Bacon Broccoli Orecchiette as it adds a lovely crunch and bright color. If fresh isn’t available, you can use frozen broccoli florets. Just thaw and pat dry before adding to the dish. How should I store leftovers of Spicy Bacon Broccoli Orecchiette? For sure! Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of water or cream to keep the sauce silky smooth. Can I freeze Spicy Bacon Broccoli Orecchiette? Absolutely! To freeze, portion the dish into airtight containers or freezer bags. It can be stored for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, thaw it overnight in the fridge and reheat slowly over low heat. Be sure to stir in a little reserved water or cream to maintain its creamy texture. What if my sauce is too thick? If you find the sauce is thicker than you’d like, simply add a few tablespoons of the reserved pasta cooking water, stirring until you reach the desired consistency. This step is key for ensuring the sauce clings beautifully to the orecchiette without becoming dry. Can I adjust the spice level of the dish? Very much so! When adding gochujang, start with a smaller amount (about a teaspoon) and taste as you go. If you crave more heat, you can always add more. Alternatively, consider throwing in some red pepper flakes for an extra kick that adapts to your preferences! Is Spicy Bacon Broccoli Orecchiette suitable for dietary restrictions? Definitely! For a gluten-free option, you can use gluten-free pasta and choose turkey bacon or omit the bacon altogether for a vegetarian version. If you have a dairy intolerance, swap heavy cream for coconut cream or a dairy-free alternative. Adjust with your needs in mind! Spicy Bacon Broccoli Orecchiette: An Easy 20-Minute Wonder This Spicy Bacon Broccoli Orecchiette is a quick, delicious meal combining crispy bacon, vibrant broccoli, and a unique gochujang kick. Print Recipe Pin Recipe Prep Time 10 minutes minsCook Time 10 minutes minsTotal Time 20 minutes mins Servings: 4 servingsCourse: DinnerCuisine: ItalianCalories: 500 Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes Ingredients 1x2x3x? For the Pasta12 oz Orecchiette Substitute with any short pasta like penne or fusilli1 tbsp Salt Adjust to tasteFor the Vegetable Mix2 cups Broccoli florets Substitute with zucchini or green beans if necessary1 Onion Diced; can use freshly diced shallots as a substitute3 cloves Garlic Minced; fresh is recommended for maximum impactFor the Sauce6 oz Bacon Substitute with pancetta or turkey bacon for a lighter option1 tsp Dried Thyme Substitute with Italian seasoning if unavailable2 tbsp Tomato Paste Can be replaced with crushed tomatoes for a fresher taste1 tbsp Gochujang Paste Adjust quantity based on heat tolerance; substitute with sriracha if needed1 cup Heavy Cream For a dairy-free option, try soy cream or unsweetened coconut cream1 tsp Freshly Ground Black Pepper Substitute with white pepper for a more subtle taste Equipment Large potLarge skilletWooden Spoon Method Step-by-Step InstructionsFill a large pot with water, add a generous pinch of salt, and bring it to a boil over high heat. Dice onion, mince garlic, and chop broccoli into bite-sized florets.Once boiling, add orecchiette and cook for 3 minutes less than package instructions. Add broccoli and cook for an additional 3 minutes.Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat, add diced bacon, and cook until crispy and golden-brown (about 5-7 minutes). Toss in onion and garlic, sauté for an additional 2 minutes until fragrant.Stir in dried thyme, tomato paste, and gochujang, mixing thoroughly. Cook for 2-3 minutes, then add heavy cream and let simmer on low for about 5 minutes.Drain pasta and broccoli, reserving ½ cup of cooking water. Add to skillet with sauce, toss together, adding reserved water as needed for sauce consistency.Season with salt to taste, finish with black pepper, and serve immediately. Nutrition Serving: 1servingCalories: 500kcalCarbohydrates: 60gProtein: 18gFat: 20gSaturated Fat: 10gPolyunsaturated Fat: 2gMonounsaturated Fat: 6gCholesterol: 60mgSodium: 800mgPotassium: 600mgFiber: 4gSugar: 5gVitamin A: 800IUVitamin C: 90mgCalcium: 50mgIron: 2mg NotesStore leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of water or cream as needed. Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!
