Description
Ina Garten Midnight Pasta is a quick and indulgently creamy pasta dish featuring smoked turkey bacon and plant-based cheese that delivers smoky, savory, and rich flavors. Ready in under 30 minutes, this comforting recipe uses simple, everyday ingredients for a delicious and satisfying late-night meal or dinner.
Ingredients
Scale
Pasta and Protein
- 8 oz spaghetti pasta (whole wheat or regular)
- 6 slices smoked turkey bacon
Sauce
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup plant-based heavy cream
- 1 tsp natural gelling agent
- 1 tbsp apple cider vinegar (natural)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Cheese and Garnish
- 1 cup shredded plant-based cheese
- 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
Instructions
- Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the spaghetti until al dente. Reserve one cup of pasta water, then drain the pasta and set aside while preparing the sauce.
- Prepare the Smoked Turkey Bacon: In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the smoked turkey bacon until crispy, about 5-7 minutes. Remove from the pan and place on paper towels to drain excess fat, keeping the flavorful drippings in the pan.
- Sauté the Garlic: Using the same skillet, add the minced garlic to the bacon drippings and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant but not browned, releasing its full aroma.
- Make the Creamy Sauce: Lower the heat and pour in the plant-based heavy cream, stirring gently. Sprinkle the natural gelling agent evenly while whisking to thicken the sauce smoothly. Add a splash of apple cider vinegar (natural) for balance and season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Combine Pasta with Sauce: Add the cooked spaghetti to the skillet and toss it in the creamy sauce. Add reserved pasta water a little at a time if needed to keep the sauce silky and perfectly coated.
- Add Cheese and Bacon: Stir in shredded plant-based cheese to melt into the sauce, creating indulgent creaminess. Finally, fold in the crispy smoked turkey bacon for savory crunch in every bite.
- Garnish and Serve: Sprinkle freshly chopped parsley on top for a pop of color and freshness. Serve warm and enjoy.
Notes
- Use reserved pasta water to loosen the sauce without diluting flavor or richness.
- Pat the turkey bacon dry on paper towels to prevent sogginess.
- Keep heat low and stir sauce gently to avoid curdling or burning.
- Always use fresh garlic for vibrant, natural flavor.
- Choose plant-based cheese with good melting quality for best creamy texture.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 450
- Sugar: 2 g
- Sodium: 600 mg
- Fat: 18 g
- Saturated Fat: 7 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 9 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: Fifty four g
- Fiber: 6 g
- Protein: 18 g
- Cholesterol: 0 mg
Keywords: Ina Garten Midnight Pasta, creamy pasta, smoky pasta, plant-based cheese, quick pasta recipe, midnight snack, easy pasta dinner