Spicy Bacon Broccoli Orecchiette: 5-Minute Comfort Dish

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Spicy Bacon Broccoli Orecchiette is the ultimate comfort dish that you can whip up in no time. This creamy pasta dish combines the robust flavors of crispy bacon, fresh broccoli, and a hint of spice that will make your taste buds dance. Perfect for busy weeknights, it provides a nutritious meal that the whole family will enjoy. With just a few ingredients and minimal prep time, you’re on your way to a delicious dinner that feels indulgent yet wholesome.

Why You’ll Love This Spicy Bacon Broccoli Orecchiette

There are many reasons to fall in love with this spicy bacon broccoli pasta. First, it’s incredibly quick to prepare, making it ideal for weeknight dinners. Second, the combination of bacon and broccoli not only tastes amazing but also packs a nutritious punch. Additionally, this dish is versatile; you can easily adjust the spice level by modifying the amount of gochujang. Finally, with its creamy texture, it’s a comforting meal that doubles as a great leftover option. Prepare this easy orecchiette with broccoli and bacon to satisfy your cravings!

Ingredients for Spicy Bacon Broccoli Orecchiette

Gather these items:

8 ounces Orecchiette (any short pasta can be substituted)
1 teaspoon Salt (adjust to taste)
2 cups Broccoli (chopped into small florets)
6 ounces Bacon Bits (pancetta or turkey bacon can be used)
1 medium Brown Onion (diced, fresh for best results)
2-3 cloves Garlic (minced)
1 teaspoon Dried Thyme (fresh thyme can be substituted)
2 tablespoons Tomato Paste (boosts sauce richness)
2 tablespoons Gochujang Paste (adjust based on spice preference)
1 cup Heavy Cream (substitute with soy or coconut cream for dairy-free)
1 teaspoon Freshly Ground Black Pepper (to taste)

How to Make Spicy Bacon Broccoli Orecchiette Step-by-Step

Step 1: In a large pot, bring water to a rolling boil over high heat, adding a generous pinch of salt. Chop broccoli into small florets, dice onion, and mince garlic.
Step 2: Add orecchiette and cook for about 3 minutes less than package instructions, around 7 minutes. Add chopped broccoli for the last 3 minutes of cooking.
Step 3: In a skillet over medium-high heat, cook bacon bits for 5-7 minutes until crispy and golden brown.
Step 4: Add diced onion to the skillet, cooking until translucent. Stir in minced garlic and sauté for an additional minute.
Step 5: Sprinkle in thyme, add tomato paste and gochujang, stirring together well. Pour in heavy cream, reduce heat, and simmer for 5 minutes.
Step 6: Drain pasta and broccoli, reserving a small cup of cooking water. Add to the skillet, tossing to coat in sauce. Adjust thickness with reserved pasta water if needed.
Step 7: Season with freshly ground black pepper to taste, stir to combine, and heat through for another minute before serving hot.

Pro Tips for the Perfect Spicy Bacon Broccoli Orecchiette

Keep these in mind:

Use high-quality bacon for the best flavor.
Don’t overcook the broccoli; it should remain vibrant and slightly crisp.
For a healthier option, consider using turkey bacon or a plant-based bacon substitute.
This recipe is a one-pot meal, making cleanup a breeze!

Best Ways to Serve Spicy Bacon Broccoli Orecchiette

This dish is versatile! Serve it with a side salad for a complete meal or pair it with garlic bread. It also works wonderfully as a meal-prep option for lunches. Don’t forget to sprinkle some grated cheese on top for an extra touch of flavor.

How to Store and Reheat Spicy Bacon Broccoli Orecchiette

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply microwave until heated through or warm it up in a skillet. The creamy sauce may thicken, so you might need to add a splash of water or cream to restore its consistency.

Frequently Asked Questions About Spicy Bacon Broccoli Orecchiette

What’s the secret to perfect Spicy Bacon Broccoli Orecchiette?

The secret lies in balancing the flavors of the bacon and the spice from the gochujang, ensuring that each bite has a delightful kick. Cooking the ingredients at the right temperature also helps preserve their texture.

Can I make Spicy Bacon Broccoli Orecchiette ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the components ahead of time. Cook the pasta and bacon, then combine them with the sauce just before serving for best results. This way, you ensure freshness and avoid overcooked ingredients.

How do I avoid common mistakes with Spicy Bacon Broccoli Orecchiette?

To avoid common mistakes, ensure that you don’t overcook the broccoli and pasta. Also, adjust the spice level to your taste preference when adding gochujang. Taste as you go!

Variations of Spicy Bacon Broccoli Orecchiette You Can Try

Feel free to experiment! You can add other vegetables like bell peppers or zucchini for added nutrition. For a vegetarian version, replace bacon with sautéed mushrooms or smoked tofu. You can also try different pasta types if you want to switch things up.

For more delicious recipes, check out Creamy Chicken and Broccoli Pasta or Cheesy Baked Chicken Broccoli Alfredo Pasta. If you’re looking for a tasty dessert, try Irresistible Strawberry Crunch Cheesecake!

For more information on the health benefits of broccoli, visit Healthline.