10 Irresistible Bacon Recipes That Are Surprisingly Healthy and Guilt-Free!

Bacon, with its smoky, salty flavor, is a favorite ingredient for many. While often associated with indulgent dishes, it can be incorporated into healthy recipes that satisfy your cravings without compromising your well-being. This article explores a variety of delicious and nutritious bacon-based recipes, from pasta dishes to salads and soups, proving that you can enjoy bacon as part of a balanced diet.

Creamy Chicken and Bacon Pasta: A One-Pot Wonder

One-pot meals are a lifesaver on busy weeknights, and this creamy chicken and bacon pasta recipe is no exception. It minimizes post-dinner cleanup while delivering a flavorful and healthy meal.

Key Ingredients and Their Benefits

Chicken: Opt for small chunks of chicken breast to ensure quick and even cooking without drying out the meat. Chicken provides lean protein, essential for muscle building and overall health.
Bacon Medallions: These lean pieces of bacon crisp up beautifully, adding a salty and savory flavor to the dish. Using medallions reduces the fat content compared to regular bacon.
Whole Wheat Fusilli: This pasta choice adds fiber and nutrients to the meal, offering a nuttier flavor and promoting digestive health.
Parmesan Cheese: A small amount of Parmesan adds a rich, umami flavor without excessive calories or fat. It's also a good source of calcium.
Kale: This leafy green is packed with vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants, boosting the nutritional value of the pasta dish.

Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

Start by adding olive oil, chicken pieces, and bacon slices to a large saucepan. Fry on medium heat for about 6 minutes, then season with salt.
Add onions to the pan and season with salt and pepper. Fry for 5 minutes until translucent.
Add garlic and dried thyme and fry for another minute.
Add chicken stock and fusilli.
Reduce the heat to low, and before adding the bacon, chicken, milk, and kale into the pan. Continue to cook until the sauce has thickened slightly, then add the Parmesan as soon as the pasta is al dente.
Add lemon juice and season with salt and pepper.

Tips and Substitutions

Pasta: While whole wheat pasta is recommended for its added nutritional value, you can substitute it with regular white pasta if you prefer. To compensate for the lower fiber content, serve the dish with a side of vegetables.
Chicken: Chicken thighs can be used instead of chicken breast, but the cooking method in this recipe ensures that the chicken breast remains moist and tender.
Bacon: Pancetta can be used instead of bacon medallions for a richer flavor, but it will increase the calorie content.
Vegetables: Enhance the dish's nutritional value by adding vegetables like peppers, courgettes, and mushrooms.
Seasoning: Adjust the seasoning to your taste, considering options like oregano or red pepper flakes for extra flavor.

Make-Ahead and Freezing Instructions

This pasta recipe is perfect for meal prepping. It can be stored in the fridge for up to 4 days or frozen for up to 3 months. To reheat, add a tablespoon of water before microwaving for 2 minutes. Top with fresh Parmesan and basil, and season with salt and pepper.

Beyond Pasta: Exploring Other Healthy Bacon Recipes

Bacon's versatility extends beyond pasta dishes. Here are some other creative and healthy ways to incorporate bacon into your meals:

Grilled Pepper Halves with Corn, Salsa, and Bacon

These grilled pepper halves are a fun and flavorful addition to any cookout. Filled with corn, salsa, green onions, mozzarella cheese, and bacon, they offer a delightful twist on traditional corn on the cob.

Nutritional Information (1 stuffed pepper half): 130 calories, 4g fat (1g saturated fat), 9mg cholesterol, 207mg sodium, 21g carbohydrate (5g sugars, 3g fiber), 6g protein.

Broccoli with Garlic and Smoky Bacon

This simple yet irresistible side dish elevates ordinary broccoli with the flavors of garlic and smoky bacon. Cooking the broccoli slowly in the seasonings allows the flavors to meld together beautifully.

Nutritional Information (3/4 cup): 155 calories, 10g fat (3g saturated fat), 11mg cholesterol, 371mg sodium, 11g carbohydrate (3g sugars, 4g fiber), 8g protein.

Cod Fillet with Tomato and Bacon

This recipe combines flaky cod fillets with a flavorful tomato sauce and crispy bacon for a quick and satisfying weeknight meal.

Nutritional Information (1 fillet with 1/4 cup tomato mixture and 1 tablespoon bacon): 178 calories, 6g fat (2g saturated fat), 64mg cholesterol, 485mg sodium, 5g carbohydrate (4g sugars, 1g fiber), 26g protein.

Honey-Mustard Chicken Sandwich with Bacon

Inspired by a restaurant meal, this chicken sandwich features a delicious honey-mustard sauce and crispy bacon.

Nutritional Information (1 sandwich): 410 calories, 17g fat (6g saturated fat), 91mg cholesterol, 667mg sodium, 29g carbohydrate (9g sugars, 3g fiber), 34g protein.

Hash Brown Egg Quiches with Bacon and Cheddar

These individual egg quiches, made with a hash brown crust and filled with bacon and cheddar cheese, are a delightful and easy breakfast or brunch option.

Nutritional Information (1 serving): 105 calories, 7g fat (3g saturated fat), 118mg cholesterol, 191mg sodium, 6g carbohydrate (1g sugars, 1g fiber), 6g protein.

Whole Wheat Linguine Skillet with Bacon and Tomato

This quick weeknight meal is reminiscent of a BLT sandwich, featuring chunks of bacon and tomato with whole wheat linguine.

Read also: Healthy Eating on the Run

Nutritional Information (1-1/2 cups): 314 calories, 11g fat (4g saturated fat), 23mg cholesterol, 682mg sodium, 46g carbohydrate (2g sugars, 7g fiber), 14g protein.

Colcannon with Bacon

This classic Irish potato and cabbage dish, often served on St. Patrick's Day, can be made even more flavorful with the addition of bacon.

Nutritional Information (1 cup): 168 calories, 5g fat (3g saturated fat), 14mg cholesterol, 361mg sodium, 27g carbohydrate (6g sugars, 4g fiber), 4g protein.

Roasted Brussels Sprouts with Bacon

Roasting Brussels sprouts brings out their natural sweetness, and adding bacon elevates this side dish to a whole new level.

Kale Salad with Bacon and Almonds

This nutritious salad combines kale with bacon, almonds, and a flavorful dressing for a satisfying and healthy meal. It can also be made with collard or mustard greens.

Nutritional Information (1 serving): 236 calories, 15g fat (3g saturated fat), 34mg cholesterol, 248mg sodium, 21g carbohydrate (6g sugars, 4g fiber), 8g protein.

Squash and Cucumber Salad with Bacon

This refreshing salad is easily adaptable to include any fresh vegetables you have on hand, making it a perfect way to use garden produce.

Nutritional Information (1-1/4 cups, calculated without bacon):* 225 calories, 8g fat (2g saturated fat), 8mg cholesterol, 404mg sodium, 29g carbohydrate (11g sugars, 5g fiber), 10g protein.

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Italian Omelet with Bacon

This gorgeous Italian omelet is loaded with flavorful ingredients, including bacon, making it a perfect brunch or breakfast option.

Nutritional Information (1 piece): 176 calories, 11g fat (4g saturated fat), 174mg cholesterol, 451mg sodium, 4g carbohydrate (2g sugars, 1g fiber), 15g protein.

Broccoli Salad with Bacon

This light and sweet broccoli salad is a refreshing and flavorful way to enjoy this often-underappreciated vegetable.

Nutritional Information (3/4 cup): 121 calories, 7g fat (1g saturated fat), 2mg cholesterol, 233mg sodium, 14g carbohydrate (10g sugars, 3g fiber), 3g protein.

Pork Chops with Wine and Mushroom Sauce and Bacon

This simple one-pan pork dish is elevated with wine and mushrooms, offering an elegant yet easy weeknight meal.

Nutritional Information (1 pork chop with 1/3 cup sauce): 232 calories, 10g fat (3g saturated fat), 60mg cholesterol, 161mg sodium, 7g carbohydrate (2g sugars, 1g fiber), 24g protein.

French Cassoulet with Bacon

This quick version of the traditional French cassoulet offers the same homey taste in less time and is easy on the wallet.

Nutritional Information (1 serving): 394 calories, 14g fat (4g saturated fat), 91mg cholesterol, 736mg sodium, 29g carbohydrate (4g sugars, 8g fiber), 33g protein.

Hash Brown Egg Casserole with Bacon and Cheddar

This easy egg bake, featuring bacon and cheddar cheese, is a tasty breakfast or brunch fare that can be made the night before.

Nutritional Information (1 cup): 354 calories, 19g fat (8g saturated fat), 227mg cholesterol, 649mg sodium, 23g carbohydrate (4g sugars, 1g fiber), 21g protein.

Green Beans with Brown Sugar and Bacon

Brown sugar, bacon, and cider vinegar season this simple yet flavorful side dish.

Nutritional Information (1 serving): 106 calories, 6g fat (2g saturated fat), 7mg cholesterol, 146mg sodium, 12g carbohydrate (7g sugars, 4g fiber), 3g protein.

Butternut Squash Salad with Bacon

This salad makes an easy and special side dish, packed with nutritious veggies, almonds, berries, and squash.

Nutritional Information (1 serving): 165 calories, 4g fat (1g saturated fat), 5mg cholesterol, 453mg sodium, 28g carbohydrate (13g sugars, 4g fiber), 7g protein.

Bacon-Wrapped Shrimp

These bacon-wrapped shrimp are a crowd-pleasing appetizer, featuring a garlicky sauce and a burst of cool cucumber flavor.

Nutritional Information (1 appetizer): 30 calories, 2g fat (0 saturated fat), 18mg cholesterol, 64mg sodium, 1g carbohydrate (0 sugars, 0 fiber), 3g protein.

Black-Eyed Peas with Bacon

Pork is the secret to a good black-eyed peas recipe. A double dose of ham for flavor and slow, gentle cooking creates this perfect side dish.

Nutritional Information (3/4 cup): 359 calories, 11g fat (3g saturated fat), 5mg cholesterol, 788mg sodium, 48g carbohydrate (9g sugars, 14g fiber), 20g protein.

Grilled Chicken Pinwheels with Bacon

These impressive-looking grilled chicken pinwheels are easy to make and delicious, even for those who don't typically like spinach.

Nutritional Information (2 pinwheels): 224 calories, 12g fat (5g saturated fat), 64mg cholesterol, 250mg sodium, 1g carbohydrate (0 sugars, 0 fiber), 26g protein.

Stuffed Potato Halves with Bacon

This lightened-up version of stuffed potato halves offers all the flavor with fewer calories and fat.

Nutritional Information (1 stuffed potato half): 35 calories, 1g fat (1g saturated fat), 4mg cholesterol, 87mg sodium, 4g carbohydrate (1g sugars, 0 fiber), 2g protein.

Spinach Salad with Apples and Bacon

With a light sweet-tangy dressing, the spinach doesnât wilt and the apples retain their crunch in this refreshing salad.

Nutritional Information (1 serving): 117 calories, 7g fat (2g saturated fat), 11mg cholesterol, 135mg sodium, 11g carbohydrate (9g sugars, 2g fiber), 3g protein.

Roasted Asparagus with Bacon

Bacon adds another layer of flavor and depth to this gorgeous side dish of roasted asparagus.

Nutritional Information (3/4 cup): 101 calories, 5g fat (2g saturated fat), 10mg cholesterol, 251mg sodium, 11g carbohydrate (4g sugars, 3g fiber), 4g protein.

West Coast Pizza with Bacon

Top your favorite store-bought or homemade pizza dough with tomato, avocado, sprouts, and bacon for a West Coast-inspired pie.

Nutritional Information (2 slices): 372 calories, 14g fat (3g saturated fat), 18mg cholesterol, 634mg sodium, 53g carbohydrate (5g sugars, 11g fiber), 16g protein.

Lentil Soup with Turkey Bacon

This hearty lentil soup, made with turkey bacon and a blend of spices, is perfect for cold autumn nights.

Nutritional Information (1 cup): 314 calories, 6g fat (2g saturated fat), 10mg cholesterol, 708mg sodium, 47g carbohydrate (4g sugars, 17g fiber), 20g protein.

Skinny Cobb Salad with Bacon

This skinny version of Cobb salad has all the taste and creaminess with half the fat and calories.

Nutritional Information (1 serving): 324 calories, 13g fat (3g saturated fat), 48mg cholesterol, 646mg sodium, 31g carbohydrate (11g sugars, 9g fiber), 23g protein.

Veggie-Loaded Frittata with Bacon

This veggie-loaded frittata combines nutritious ingredients into a filling dish that can be served as breakfast, lunch, or dinner.

Nutritional Information (1 wedge): 259 calories, 14g fat (5g saturated fat), 340mg cholesterol, 448mg sodium, 16g carbohydrate (7g sugars, 2g fiber), 17g protein.

Grilled Peach Salad with Bacon

This hearty salad, created with leftovers from the fridge, features grilled peaches for a "tastes like summer" salad booster.

Nutritional Information (1 serving): 218 calories, 11g fat (3g saturated fat), 20mg cholesterol, 530mg sodium, 23g carbohydrate (9g sugars, 2g fiber), 7g protein.

Stuffed Onions with Bacon

This unexpected side dish is perfect to serve alongside grilled steak or pork chops.

Nutritional Information (1 stuffed onion): 284 calories, 11g fat (3g saturated fat), 14mg cholesterol, 641mg sodium, 38g carbohydrate (19g sugars, 5g fiber), 11g protein.

Clam Chowder with Bacon

This clam chowder recipe is a classic, made even more flavorful with the addition of bacon.

Nutritional Information (1-1/3 cups): 280 calories, 5g fat (1g saturated fat), 36mg cholesterol, 805mg sodium, 42g carbohydrate (9g sugars, 3g fiber), 15g protein.

Rice Medley with Fennel, Tarragon, and Bacon

This super savory dish, featuring fennel and tarragon, is made with a rice medley and bacon.

Nutritional Information (1 serving): 472 calories, 20g fat (5g saturated fat), 156mg cholesterol, 546mg sodium, 44g carbohydrate (2g sugars, 3g fiber), 28g protein.

Brussels Sprouts with Bacon and Balsamic Glaze

These Brussels sprouts are roasted to perfection and then drizzled with a balsamic glaze and topped with bacon.

Nutritional Information (3/4 cup): 253 calories, 18g fat (3g saturated fat), 8mg cholesterol, 407mg sodium, 20g carbohydrate (8g sugars, 6g fiber), 8g protein.

Lima Beans with Bacon and Tomatoes

Bacon, tomatoes, and lima beans combine for a nutrient-packed side dish that makes the perfect accompaniment to turkey.

Nutritional Information (2/3 cup): 230 calories, 8g fat (3g saturated fat), 12mg cholesterol, 666mg sodium, 30g carbohydrate (6g sugars, 9g fiber), 11g protein.

Crunchy Veggie Salad with Yogurt Dressing and Bacon

This fast-to-make salad features a crunchy mix of vegetables with a cool and creamy yogurt dressing and bacon.

Nutritional Information (1 cup): 124 calories, 3g fat (1g saturated fat), 7mg cholesterol, 134mg sodium, 22g carbohydrate (17g sugars, 3g fiber), 4g protein.

Spinach-Artichoke Stuffed Chicken Breasts with Bacon

This impressive-looking dish is easy to make and delicious, even for those who don't like spinach.

Nutritional Information (2 each): 320 calories, 16g fat (8g saturated fat), 96mg cholesterol, 271mg sodium, 4g carbohydrate (1g sugars, 2g fiber), 37g protein.

Potatoes with Bacon and Wine

Tossing the cooked potatoes with stock and wine right after you drain them infuses them with flavor. The liquid absorbs like magic.

Nutritional Information (1 cup): 221 calories, 12g fat (2g saturated fat), 10mg cholesterol, 405mg sodium, 22g carbohydrate (2g sugars, 3g fiber), 7g protein.

Cucumber Salad with Bacon

Scavenging the fridge for ingredients, this cucumber salad with bacon is a salad superstar.

Nutritional Information (1 cup): 109 calories, 8g fat (1g saturated fat), 4mg cholesterol, 116mg sodium, 9g carbohydrate (6g sugars, 1g fiber), 2g protein.

Quick and Easy Bacon Pasta Recipes

For those craving a quick and satisfying meal, here are some easy bacon pasta recipes:

Easy Risotto with Bacon and Peas

This simplified risotto recipe uses just a few ingredients and requires adding the stock all at once, resulting in a creamy and comforting dish.

Aubergine, Chilli & Bacon Pasta

This super healthy pasta dish brings Mediterranean sunshine to your table throughout the year and is easy on the wallet.

Butternut & Bacon Fusilli

This easy pasta dish with pancetta, butternut squash, and spinach makes a healthy weeknight dinner, with fresh rosemary adding extra flavor.

Creative Ways to Use Bacon

If you have leftover bacon and are looking for creative ways to use it up, here are a few ideas:

Add it to soups: Bacon adds a savory, salty flavor to soups, especially pork soups.
Incorporate it into noodles and pastas: As demonstrated above, bacon is a fantastic addition to pasta dishes.
Sprinkle it on salads: Bacon adds a crispy, salty element to salads.
Stir it into pork stir-fries: Bacon complements pork in stir-fries.
Use it for pies: Bacon can be incorporated into savory pies.

Pasta Carbonara with Bacon and Peas: A Classic Dish Made Easy

Pasta carbonara is a classic Italian dish that can be made quickly and easily with bacon.

Ingredients

Pasta (such as fusilli, angel hair, or spaghetti)
Bacon
Eggs
Pecorino Romano or Parmesan cheese
Peas
Garlic powder
Salt
Freshly ground black pepper

Instructions

Make the egg mixture: Whisk together the eggs, cheese, and garlic powder in a medium bowl. Set aside.
Cook the bacon: Place bacon in a single layer in a large skillet over medium heat. Cook, turning occasionally, until golden brown. Transfer to a cutting board and blot with a paper towel to absorb excess grease. Chop into bite-sized pieces and set aside. If using regular bacon, drain most of the bacon grease from the pan, leaving about a tablespoon.
Cook the pasta: While the bacon is cooking, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water before draining.
Mix the carbonara: Immediately transfer the drained pasta to the pan you cooked the bacon in (remove from heat). Slowly stir in the egg and cheese mixture, using tongs to coat the pasta. The warmth of the pasta will cook the eggs and create a creamy sauce. Add about 1/3 cup of the reserved pasta water, plus more as necessary to achieve the desired consistency.
Season and serve: Add lots of freshly ground black pepper, the chopped bacon, and thawed peas. Stir to combine. Taste and add more salt and pepper as needed. Serve immediately.

Tips for Perfect Carbonara

Use good quality ingredients: Freshly grated cheese and good quality bacon will make a big difference in the flavor of the dish.
Don't overheat the pan: Ensure the pan is warm but not over direct heat when mixing the eggs and cheese to prevent the eggs from curdling.
Season generously: Don't be afraid to add plenty of salt and freshly ground black pepper.
Reserve pasta water: The reserved pasta water is essential for creating a creamy sauce.

Variations

Vegetables: Substitute spinach for peas by cooking 4-6 cups of spinach in a skillet with a little olive oil until wilted. You can also use fresh or frozen sweet corn.
Spice: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a little heat.
Bacon: Turkey bacon can be used, but choose a brand without nitrates and with minimal ingredients.

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