1. Cook the Bacon:
- Heat Pan: Heat a large skillet or sauté pan over medium heat and add the olive oil.
- Cook Bacon: Add the bacon pieces to the pan and cook until crispy, about 5-7 minutes. Remove the bacon with a slotted spoon and transfer it to a paper towel-lined plate to drain.
2. Sauté the Aromatics:
- Cook Onion: In the same pan with the bacon drippings, add the chopped onion and cook until softened, about 3 minutes.
- Add Garlic: Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional 1 minute until fragrant.
3. Cook the Pasta:
- Add Liquids: Pour in the chicken or vegetable broth and water. Bring to a simmer.
- Add Pasta: Add the pasta to the simmering liquid and cook according to the package instructions until al dente, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking.
4. Prepare the Eggs and Cream (Optional):
- Mix Eggs and Cheese: While the pasta is cooking, beat the eggs in a small bowl and mix in the grated Parmesan cheese. Set aside.
- Add Cream (Optional): If using, stir the heavy cream into the pasta during the last few minutes of cooking for added creaminess.
5. Combine and Finish:
- Add Eggs and Bacon: Once the pasta is cooked and most of the liquid has been absorbed, reduce the heat to low. Quickly stir in the egg and cheese mixture, ensuring that the eggs cook gently and coat the pasta evenly. The heat from the pasta will cook the eggs and create a creamy sauce.
- Add Bacon: Stir in the crispy bacon pieces. Season with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste.
6. Serve:
- Garnish: Serve the pasta hot, garnished with additional Parmesan cheese and chopped fresh parsley if desired.
Tips for Perfection
- Pasta Cooking: Make sure to stir the pasta occasionally to prevent it from sticking together and ensure it cooks evenly.
- Egg Mixture: Adding the egg mixture off the heat helps prevent the eggs from scrambling and creates a smooth, creamy sauce.
- Cream: If you prefer a richer sauce, don’t skip the heavy cream; it adds a luxurious texture to the dish.
Conclusion
One-Pan Pasta with Eggs, Bacon, and Parmesan is a deliciously satisfying meal that’s perfect for busy days. The combination of crispy bacon, creamy eggs, and savory Parmesan makes for a comforting and flavorful dish that’s easy to prepare and clean up. Enjoy this hearty pasta dish as a quick weeknight dinner or a satisfying lunch!
Feel free to adjust the recipe to include your favorite vegetables or add more spices for extra flavor. Happy cooking!