Spicy Bacon Broccoli Orecchiette

Spicy Bacon Broccoli Orecchiette was born from my love of satisfying pasta dinners that combine comfort with bold layers of flavor. Smoky bacon and sweet onions melt into a creamy, spicy sauce that clings perfectly to orecchiette, while broccoli sneaks in that hit of green goodness. This is one of those recipes that goes from simple ingredients to absolute crave-worthiness in less than an hour. It quickly became my go-to for chilly weeknights when I want something special but do not want to spend all night in the kitchen.

I first whipped up this pasta on a night when I had just a bit of gochujang left and a stray head of broccoli. My whole family instantly requested seconds and it is now a regular in our meal rotation.

Ingredients

• Orecchiette pasta: Shaped like little ears this pasta catches every bit of chunky sauce Choose bronze-cut pasta if possible for best texture
• Fresh broccoli: Bright green and earthy gives bite and balance Choose tight florets with no yellowing
• Bacon bits: Smoky savory base Adds richness Look for thick-cut bacon with plenty of meat
• Brown onion: Adds sweetness and depth to the sauce Go for a firm onion with papery skin
• Garlic cloves: Sharp and fragrant fresh cloves are a must for punch
• Dried thyme: Earthy and herbal accent Rub between fingers before adding to release oils
• Tomato paste: Brings umami and a slight tang Use double concentrate for best flavor
• Gochujang paste: Fermented chili kick spicy and complex Adjust based on your spice level Look for deep red color and a fresh date
• Heavy cream: Delivers luxurious body Use full-fat cream for velvety richness
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper: Enhances everything You want large flakes of sea salt and cracked black pepper for best finish

Instructions

Bring the Water to a Boil:

Fill your biggest pot with water generously salt it and bring to a rolling boil This ensures your orecchiette cooks evenly and is properly seasoned

Cook the Pasta and Broccoli:

Add the orecchiette and give it a good stir Boil about three minutes less than package time then add broccoli florets directly into the boiling water Continue cooking until the pasta is just barely al dente and the broccoli is tender but still bright green Scoop out half a cup of cooking water before draining

Crisp the Bacon:

With the pasta simmering heat a skillet over high Add bacon bits and cook stirring often until every piece is golden and crisp The rendered fat is flavor gold

Sauté Onion and Garlic:

Lower the heat to medium add diced onion and minced garlic to the bacon Push them around the pan letting the onion soften and become translucent about two minutes The aroma should be sweet and savory

Build the Sauce:

Sprinkle in dried thyme then add tomato paste and gochujang Stir until everything is slicked and bright red Pour in heavy cream and gently simmer letting the flavors meld for a minute or two Lower the flame so the cream does not boil over

Combine Pasta and Sauce:

Add your drained orecchiette and broccoli to the skillet Immediately toss everything together The little pasta shells will hug the bacon and broccoli beautifully If the sauce looks too thick splash in reserved pasta water a bit at a time until everything is glossy and creamy

Season and Serve:

Taste and add sea salt and black pepper to your liking Heap into warm bowls and serve fast for the creamiest texture

I am addicted to the savory heat that gochujang brings to this dish. The one time I swapped in sriracha it simply did not have the same earthy punch. My kids love broccoli in their pasta now just because of this recipe.

Storage Tips

Cool leftovers completely before storing in airtight containers Refrigerate up to three days Reheat gently with a splash of milk or water to keep the sauce silky Avoid microwaving at high heat which can make the sauce separate

Ingredient Substitutions

Try pancetta or turkey bacon for a lighter option Use spiral pasta or penne if orecchiette is not available Swap kale or cauliflower for broccoli in a pinch If you cannot find gochujang a spoonful of chili crisp and a dash of soy sauce will still give bold flavor

Serving Suggestions

Serve alone as a star main or round it out with garlic bread and a crisp salad Sometimes I top each bowl with extra black pepper or a sprinkle of grated Parmesan For an added kick stir in a pinch of chili flakes before serving

Cultural and Seasonal Notes

This pasta feels like a mashup of Italian comfort and Korean heat Orecchiette is a southern Italian favorite for hearty sauces but gochujang brings new energy to the table When spring hits asparagus works as a fresh swap for broccoli In winter roasted cauliflower gives the dish a cozier depth

This dish has become a regular request for friends and family. The mix of smoky, spicy, and creamy textures makes it memorable every time.

Recipe FAQs

→ Can I adjust the spice level?

Yes, control the gochujang amount for milder or bolder heat to suit your preference.

→ Is another pasta shape suitable?

Short shapes like fusilli or shells hold the sauce well if orecchiette isn't available.

→ How can I make it vegetarian?

Omit bacon and substitute with smoked mushrooms or a plant-based protein for flavor.

→ What pairs well as a side?

A crisp green salad or simple garlic bread balances the creamy, spicy pasta nicely.

→ Can leftovers be reheated?

Yes, gently warm leftovers with a splash of milk or cream to bring back creaminess.