Italian Beef Bacon Spaghetti Recipe

There’s something magical about Italian-inspired dishes. With rich, savory flavors, hearty textures, and comforting warmth, this Italian Beef and Bacon Spaghetti Bake is a true crowd-pleaser. This recipe combines the smoky taste of bacon, the bold flavor of minced beef, and the creamy goodness of a homemade white sauce. Whether you’re cooking for your family or impressing guests, this dish is guaranteed to leave everyone asking for seconds.

Preparation Time

• Preparation: 20 minutes
• Cooking: 40 minutes
• Total Time: 1 hour

Ingredients

For the Meat Sauce:

• 300 g spaghetti
• 200 g bacon, diced
• 1 red onion, finely chopped
• 3 cloves of garlic, minced
• 700 g minced beef
• 200 g tomato sauce

For the Béchamel Sauce:

• 40 g butter
• 30 g flour
• 500 ml milk

For Topping:

• 100 g grated mozzarella cheese (optional)
• Fresh basil for garnish

Instructions

Step 1: Cook the Spaghetti

1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
2. Add the spaghetti and cook according to the package instructions (about 8–10 minutes).
3. Drain and set aside, tossing lightly with a drizzle of olive oil to prevent sticking.

Step 2: Prepare the Meat Sauce

1. In a large skillet or saucepan, cook the diced bacon over medium heat until crispy. Remove and set aside on a paper towel to drain excess fat.
2. In the same pan, sauté the chopped red onion until soft and translucent, about 3 minutes.
3. Add the minced garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
4. Stir in the minced beef, breaking it up with a spoon, and cook until browned, about 8 minutes.
5. Add the tomato sauce, season with salt and pepper, and let simmer for 10 minutes. Stir in the cooked bacon.

Step 3: Make the Béchamel Sauce

1. In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over low heat.
2. Gradually whisk in the flour to create a roux. Cook for 2 minutes, stirring constantly, until the mixture is golden and smooth.
3. Slowly add the milk, whisking continuously to prevent lumps. Cook until the sauce thickens, about 5–7 minutes.
4. Season with a pinch of salt and nutmeg if desired.

Step 4: Assemble the Dish

1. Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F).
2. In a large baking dish, layer the cooked spaghetti, spreading it evenly.
3. Pour the meat sauce over the spaghetti, ensuring it covers the pasta evenly.
4. Drizzle the béchamel sauce on top, spreading it gently with the back of a spoon.
5. Sprinkle grated mozzarella cheese over the top if desired.

Step 5: Bake

1. Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for 20 minutes, or until the top is golden and bubbly.
2. Remove from the oven and let rest for 5 minutes before serving.

Serving

Serve this Italian Beef and Bacon Spaghetti Bake hot, garnished with fresh basil leaves. Pair it with a side salad and some crusty garlic bread for a complete Italian feast. Each bite combines the creamy sauce, the smoky bacon, and the flavorful beef, making this dish a comforting and satisfying meal.

Tips and Notes

• Cheese Variation: For a richer flavor, use a mix of mozzarella and Parmesan cheese.
• Meat Substitution: You can substitute minced beef with ground turkey or chicken for a lighter version.
• Vegetarian Option: Swap the meat sauce for a vegetable-packed marinara with mushrooms, zucchini, and bell peppers.

This Italian Beef and Bacon Spaghetti Bake is a celebration of hearty flavors and comforting textures. Its simple preparation and satisfying taste make it a perfect choice for any dinner occasion. Try this recipe, and you’ll have a dish that’s destined to become a family favorite!