Data released by Statista based on a Simmons National Consumer Survey and U.S. Census data found that in 2020, over 268 million Americans consumed bacon. It’s something that many of us love. In fact, few foods seem to inspire as much excitement. Perhaps it’s because it’s so versatile and fun. You can wrap just about everything in bacon and it will make it better, even chocolate, providing the perfect sweet and savory treat.
If you’re looking for something different to do with one of your favorite foods, you might want to put this fabulous breakfast bacon dish on your menu, along with a few bonus extras.
Pancakes with Bacon Jam
Bacon and pancakes are an ideal pair, but even better, how about smear some bacon jam on top? You’ll get that ideal sweet and savory combo. There are some delicious premade options if you want to buy bacon jam, or you can make your own. This recipe by Souffle Bombay is especially tasty and all you’ll need is some bacon, garlic, onions, red wine (or sherry vinegar) brown sugar, balsamic vineyard, black pepper, fresh thyme, and water. It’s not only great on pancakes, but biscuits, toast, and many other dishes.
Bacon Quiche
If you’re looking for something that goes beyond your regular pancake breakfast, consider putting together a bacon quiche. Simply cook about a half-pound of bacon in a skillet and drain. Cook a couple of sliced leeks in three tablespoons of the drippings and then spread the leeks, the bacon, and two-thirds of a cup of shredded Gruyere cheese in a prebaked pie crust. Whisk together two egg yolks, two whole eggs, a cup of cream, and salt and pepper to taste. Pour the mixture over the cheese and bake in the oven, preheated at 375 F for about 25 minutes.
BLT Pasta
A unique twist on your favorite sandwich, BLT Pasta calls for eight slices of cooked and chopped bacon. Save three tablespoons of the drippings and cook three sliced garlic cloves, a red onion (chopped), three garlic cloves (sliced), five cups of grape tomatoes, a teaspoon of sea salt and a dash of red pepper flakes in them for 12 minutes. Add one-third cup for cream and then cook for two additional minutes. Toss the mixture with 12 ounces of penne pasta (cooked), four cups arugula, basil as desired, the bacon, and a splash of the water the pasta was cooked in. Top with shredded parmesan cheese.
Bacon Meatballs
These bacon meatballs are ideal for any pasta dish or even on their own. Get out your food processor and pulse six ounces of pancetta. If you can’t find pancetta, you can use regular bacon by boiling it in water first which reduces the smoky flavor. Add a half-cup chopped onion, a cup of breadcrumbs, a half-cup chopped parsley, four garlic cloves and two whole eggs followed by grated parmesan cheese, salt and pepper, as desired. Pulse to combine the mixture and then form it into small balls. Brown the meatballs in a skillet with some olive oil and then simmer in tomato sauce until it’s cooked through.
