Easy Ditalini Pasta Recipe with Bacon | One-Pot Dinner

If you think pasta nights have to be complicated, you’re in for a surprise. Picture this: tiny, chewy ditalini pasta swimming in a rich, smoky bacon-infused sauce that’s crunchy, salty, and absolutely addictive. This recipe takes your average weeknight dinner and upgrades it to “gourmet in 20 minutes” status.

Whether you’re a pasta purist or a bacon enthusiast (or both), this dish strikes the perfect balance of simplicity and flavor bombs. Ready to make dinner your new favorite hookup?

What Makes This Recipe Awesome

This isn’t just any pasta dish. First off, ditalini—those cute little tube-shaped noodles—are perfect for soaking up every bit of the bacon goodness and sauce.

The crispy bacon adds an unbeatable crunch and smoky depth that transforms the humble pasta into something outrageous. Plus, the recipe is quick, minimal fuss, and requires just a handful of ingredients you likely already have. It’s ideal for anyone who wants a satisfying, comforting meal without playing chef for hours.

Also, it’s perfect for impressing guests or yourself when you’re feeling “meh.”

Shopping List – Ingredients

• 1 cup ditalini pasta (or any small tube pasta)
• 6 slices bacon, cut into bite-sized pieces
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1/2 cup heavy cream (optional for creaminess)
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
• Fresh parsley (optional, for garnish)
• Red pepper flakes (optional, for a kick)

Let’s Get Cooking – Instructions

1. Cook the pasta: Boil a generous pot of salted water. Add ditalini pasta and cook until al dente (usually 8-10 minutes). Drain and keep some pasta water on the side.
2. Crisp the bacon: While pasta cooks, heat a large skillet over medium heat.

   Add bacon pieces and cook until they’re crunchy and golden. Use a slotted spoon to transfer bacon to paper towels and drain excess fat.

3. Sauté the garlic: In the same skillet, pour out some bacon grease if it’s too much, leaving about 1 tablespoon. Add olive oil and garlic, cooking just until fragrant—about 30 seconds.

   Don’t burn it, unless you enjoy bitter surprises.

4. Make it creamy (optional): Pour in heavy cream, stirring to combine. Let it simmer gently for 2 minutes, thickening just a bit. Skip this step if you want a lighter dish.
5. Combine pasta and bacon: Toss the cooked ditalini and crispy bacon into the skillet, mixing everything together.

   If the sauce looks dry, splash in reserved pasta water until it reaches your desired consistency.

6. Cheese it up: Stir in Parmesan cheese until melted and silky. Season generously with salt, pepper, and a pinch of red pepper flakes for a subtle heat.
7. Serve and garnish: Plate your pasta, sprinkle fresh parsley on top, and get ready to wow your taste buds.

Preservation Guide

Got leftovers? Wrap or store your pasta in an airtight container and refrigerate.

It holds up well for up to 3 days, FYI. When reheating, add a splash of water or broth to loosen it up—no one wants clumpy pasta. Bacon might lose some crunch but will still pack that savory punch.

Don’t freeze this one unless you like mushy disappointments.

Why This is Good for You

Let’s be real: bacon isn’t health food per se, but moderation is key. Bacon provides protein and that magic smoky flavor that keeps you satisfied and less likely to overeat. Ditalini pasta is a quick source of energy from carbs, and adding garlic brings in antioxidants.

Toss in parsley for vitamins and antioxidants, and you get a comforting meal without sacrificing all your nutritional goals. This dish balances indulgence and nourishment, perfect for a filling yet doable dinner—no kale required.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Overcooking the pasta: Nobody enjoys a mushy mess. Al dente is your friend here.
• Burning the garlic: That 30-second window is crucial.

  Burnt garlic equals bitter taste, end of story.

• Skipping pasta water: Resist the urge to dump the water. That starchy liquid saves many pasta dishes from dryness.
• Under-seasoning: Bacon adds salt but don’t be shy with additional seasoning to make flavors pop.
• Eating it cold straight from the fridge: Pasta is happier warm, trust me on this one.

Mix It Up

Feeling adventurous? Here’s how to remix your Easy Ditalini Pasta with Crispy Bacon:

• Veggie boost: Add sautéed spinach, cherry tomatoes, or peas for color and nutrients.
• Spice kick: Increase red pepper flakes or mix in some smoked paprika.
• Cheese swap: Try Pecorino Romano or a sprinkle of fresh mozzarella.
• Make it a carbonara-ish: Toss in a whisked egg yolk off the heat for ultra-creamy magic.
• Herb upgrade: Basil or thyme are excellent alternatives to parsley.

FAQ

Can I use other types of pasta instead of ditalini?

Absolutely!

While ditalini is ideal for soaking up sauce, any small shape like elbow macaroni, mini penne, or shells will work just fine.

Is it okay to skip the cream?

100%. The cream adds silkiness but skipping it makes the dish lighter and more rustic, letting bacon flavor shine through.

How do I make the bacon extra crispy?

Cook bacon over medium heat, flipping often to render fat evenly. For ultimate crisp, finish in a hot oven for a couple of minutes.

Can I prepare this recipe ahead of time?

You can prepare components like cooked bacon and boiled pasta in advance.

Assemble and heat through when ready to eat, but best eaten fresh.

What wine pairs well with this pasta?

Think light and crisp whites like Pinot Grigio or a dry Rosé to balance salty, smoky bacon flavors.

My Take

I’m a huge fan of recipes that deliver big taste with minimal effort, and this Easy Ditalini Pasta with Crispy Bacon has checked all the boxes for me. It’s the kind of dish that looks humble but tastes like you spent hours perfecting it. Plus, it hits that magical sweet spot of comfort food without making you want to nap immediately after.

There’s a reason bacon and pasta are in so many love ballads—this combo just works. Whether you’re cooking for company or yourself, this recipe is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser with zero drama. Give it a shot, and expect compliments (and requests for seconds).

Who said quick dinner can’t be amazing?