Cellentani with Bacon and Ricotta
Creamy cellentani pasta with crispy bacon and ricotta cheese. A quick, flavorful Italian dish perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients
- 12 oz cellentani pasta
- 6 oz bacon or pancetta diced
- 1 cup ricotta cheese
- 1/2 cup Parmesan cheese grated
- 1 cup tomato passata
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional: Chili flakes fresh basil or parsley
Instructions
- Cook the cellentani in salted boiling water until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water before draining.
- In a large skillet, cook the diced bacon over medium heat until crispy. Remove and set aside.
- In the same skillet, add tomato passata and simmer for 5 minutes. Stir in ricotta and reserved pasta water until smooth.
- Toss the pasta in the sauce, then add the crispy bacon and Parmesan. Mix well.
- Garnish with fresh basil or parsley and serve immediately.
Notes
- Pasta Selection: While cellentani is ideal for this recipe because of its curly shape that holds sauce well, you can substitute with fusilli, rigatoni, or penne if needed.
- Bacon Alternatives: Pancetta offers a traditional Italian flavor, but smoked turkey bacon or even vegetarian bacon substitutes work well for dietary preferences.
- Ricotta Tips: Use fresh, high-quality ricotta for the creamiest texture. If your ricotta is too thick, stir in a tablespoon of milk to loosen it.
- Make It Spicy: Add a pinch of red chili flakes to the sauce or sprinkle them on top for a hint of heat.
- Vegetarian Option: Replace bacon with sautéed mushrooms or roasted vegetables like zucchini or bell peppers.
- Perfectly Cooked Pasta: Always cook your pasta to al dente to avoid mushiness, especially if it sits in the sauce before serving.
- Saving Pasta Water: Reserve at least 1 cup of pasta water before draining. It's the secret to achieving a silky sauce consistency.
- Herb Garnishes: Fresh basil adds brightness, while parsley provides a subtle herbal flavor. Use either or both, depending on your taste.
- Storing Leftovers: Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When reheating, add a splash of milk or water to keep the sauce creamy.
- Pairing Suggestions: Serve with a simple green salad or garlic bread for a complete meal.