Quick and Delicious: 5-Minute Smoky Bacon Ranch Pasta Skillet

Name: Quick and Delicious: 5-Minute Smoky Bacon Ranch Pasta Skillet
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 4 servings
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese; 1 teaspoon garlic powder; 8 oz pasta (any type); 4 slices bacon, cooked and crumbled; 1/2 cup ranch dressing; Salt and pepper to taste; 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

January 13, 2025

Recipes

Craving a quick and delicious meal that packs a punch of flavor? Look no further than this 5-Minute Smoky Bacon Ranch Pasta Skillet! This dish combines crispy bacon, creamy ranch dressing, and gooey mozzarella cheese with perfectly cooked pasta for a satisfying meal that’s ready in no time. Perfect for busy weeknights or when you need a comforting dish without the fuss, this skillet recipe is sure to become a go-to favorite in your kitchen!

What Makes It Special

What makes this Smoky Bacon Ranch Pasta Skillet truly special is its incredible flavor profile and the speed at which it comes together. The smoky bacon adds a savory crunch, while the ranch dressing brings a creamy tang that perfectly complements the pasta. The addition of smoked paprika and garlic powder enhances the dish with a depth of flavor, making it feel indulgent despite being a quick meal. It’s a delightful combination that’s both comforting and satisfying!

Ingredients

4 slices of bacon, diced
2 cups cooked pasta (any shape you prefer)
½ cup ranch dressing
1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
½ teaspoon smoked paprika
1 teaspoon garlic powder
2 green onions, chopped (optional, for garnish)

Instructions

Cook the Bacon: Heat a skillet over medium heat and add the diced bacon. Cook until crispy, about 4-5 minutes. Remove the bacon from the skillet and set aside, leaving a little bacon grease in the skillet for flavor.
Add the Pasta: Add the cooked pasta to the skillet, stirring to coat it in the bacon drippings for added flavor.
Mix in the Seasonings: Stir in the ranch dressing, smoked paprika, and garlic powder. Let the mixture simmer for about 2 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.
Melt the Cheese: Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese over the top of the pasta mixture. Cover the skillet and let it cook for another minute, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Finish and Serve: Top the pasta with the crispy bacon and chopped green onions (if using). Serve immediately for a quick, smoky, cheesy meal that’s ready in no time!

Nutritional Information

Serving Size: 1 cup
Calories: 400
Total Fat: 24g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
Cholesterol: 50mg
Sodium: 800mg
Total Carbohydrates: 30g
- Dietary Fiber: 2g
- Sugars: 2g
Protein: 15g

Note: Nutritional values are approximate and may vary based on specific ingredients used.

Cooking Tips

Pasta Options: Feel free to use any type of pasta you have on hand, such as penne, rotini, or spaghetti.
Add Veggies: For a healthier twist, consider adding some sautéed vegetables like bell peppers, spinach, or broccoli to the skillet.
Cheese Variations: Experiment with different cheeses, such as cheddar or pepper jack, for a unique flavor.
Make It Spicy: If you like a little heat, add some crushed red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños to the skillet.

Conclusion

We hope you enjoy making and devouring this 5-Minute Smoky Bacon Ranch Pasta Skillet! It’s a quick and flavorful dish that’s perfect for any occasion. If you try this recipe, please let us know how it turned out in the comments below. Don’t forget to follow us for more easy and delicious recipes!