Creamy Tomato and Bacon Penne is the kind of weeknight dinner that feels like a treat but takes almost no time to prepare. The smoky richness of bacon pairs beautifully with a creamy tomato sauce, coating each bite of pasta with savory comfort. It’s satisfying without being heavy, and it comes together with just a few simple ingredients.

This dish has all the makings of a picky-eater favorite: smooth sauce, familiar flavors, and nothing too “out there.” The bacon adds depth, the cream softens the tomatoes’ acidity, and the penne captures every bit of sauce. It’s cozy, kid-friendly, and adults love it too.

Best of all, this dinner is ready in under 30 minutes. Whether you’re cooking for a crowd or just trying to get something easy on the table after work, Creamy Tomato and Bacon Penne gets the job done—with clean plates to prove it.

Servings: 4

Nutrition: 500–600 calories per serving

Ingredients

• Penne pasta
• Bacon
• Onion
• Garlic
• Canned crushed tomatoes
• Heavy cream
• Parmesan cheese
• Olive oil
• Salt and pepper

Instructions

• Cook the Pasta: Boil penne until al dente. Reserve some pasta water before draining.
• Crisp the Bacon: In a large skillet, cook chopped bacon until crisp. Remove and set aside, leaving some fat in the pan.
• Sauté the Aromatics: In the bacon fat, sauté chopped onion and garlic until soft and fragrant.
• Add the Tomatoes: Stir in crushed tomatoes and let the sauce simmer for a few minutes.
• Stir in the Cream: Add heavy cream and simmer until the sauce is smooth and heated through.
• Combine Everything: Return the bacon to the pan, then toss in the cooked pasta. Stir to coat, adding pasta water as needed.
• Finish and Serve: Season with salt and pepper, sprinkle with Parmesan, and serve warm.

Substitutions & Variations

• No Cream? Use half-and-half or whole milk with a little extra Parmesan.
• Add Greens: Stir in spinach or peas at the end for extra color and nutrients.
• Vegetarian Option: Skip the bacon and use smoked paprika for a hint of smoky flavor.
• Switch the Pasta: Try rigatoni or fusilli if you don’t have penne.

What Equipment You’ll Need

• Large pot for pasta
• Large skillet
• Wooden spoon or spatula
• Knife and cutting board
• Grater (for Parmesan)

Storage & Reheating Guidelines

• Storage: Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
• Reheating: Warm gently on the stove or in the microwave. Add a splash of cream or water if the sauce thickens too much.

Top Tips

• Save That Pasta Water: It helps loosen the sauce and makes it silky.
• Use Good Bacon: The better the bacon, the better the flavor.
• Simmer Gently: Avoid boiling the cream to keep the sauce smooth.

Frequently Asked Questions

• Can I make this ahead of time?
  Yes, you can make the sauce ahead and reheat it. Cook pasta fresh for the best texture.
• Can I freeze this dish?
  It’s best eaten fresh, but you can freeze leftovers. Reheat with extra cream to restore texture.

Related Recipes

• Creamy Macaroni and Cheese: A rich and creamy classic that’s quick to make and a guaranteed crowd-pleaser.
• Sausage Pasta Bake: A baked pasta dish that combines gooey cheese, a hearty tomato sauce, and sausage for ultimate comfort.

Food Safety Guidelines

• Cook Bacon Thoroughly: Ensure it’s fully cooked and crisp.
• Refrigerate Promptly: Store leftovers within 2 hours.
• Reheat to 165°F: Make sure reheated pasta is steaming hot.
• Use Clean Utensils: Avoid using the same spoon for tasting and stirring.