21 Unbelievably Good Recipes Featuring Bacon
A little bit of bacon can completely change a meal, elevating it from bland to crave-worthy, full of that distinct, smoky flavor that everyone loves so much. Bacon improves almost everything it touches, and this collection of recipes proves that.
From salads to soups — just add bacon. It’s the missing touch of intense flavor.
German Potato Salad
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A well-loved accompaniment is the timeless German potato salad, renowned for its harmonious blend of savory and fresh flavors. This tried-and-true recipe offers guidance for creating an exceptional rendition using just a handful of ingredients. The distinct taste of German potato salad hinges on the rich flavors of bone broth or stock and the savory, smoky essence of bacon.
Haluski: Egg Noodles With Caramelized Onions, Bacon, & Cabbage
Haluski is a delightful dish with American-Slavic origins that is both quick and easy to prepare. It’s a budget-friendly and family-friendly meal that combines caramelized bacon and onions with fresh cabbage, all tossed with egg noodles that are lightly crisped at the edges. This simple yet incredibly tasty dish offers a comforting and satisfying dining experience.
Authentic Coq Au Vin With A Rooster
Bacon adds flavor and depth to this traditional French peasant meal, always made with an old rooster. And with the popularity of backyard chicken keeping and homesteading exploding, there are always a few available in the neighborhood now for cheap or free — talk about budget-friendly!
Fresh Basil Pesto, Pancetta + Parmigiano Pasta
Salty and savory pancetta or bacon are combined with Parmigiano-Reggiano and the freshness of basil pesto to create a simple and delicious pasta sauce.
Red Cabbage Soup With Bacon
Indulge in the rich flavors of a red cabbage soup with bacon or pancetta, brimming with both vegetables and taste. You’re sure to fall for this delightful and robust soup, marrying the vibrant and nutritious red cabbage with the savory notes of bacon.
Bacon-Wrapped Medjool Dates
The rich, savory flavor of bacon pairs wonderfully with the natural sweetness of Medjool dates. Creating bacon-wrapped Medjool dates is a simple and tasty way to prepare an appetizer or snack. This recipe only calls for three ingredients: bacon strips, Medjool dates, and pistachios for stuffing.
Slovak Bryndzové Halušky (Potato Dumplings with Cheese & Bacon)
I was taught this traditional Slovak bryndzové halušky recipe by my mother-in-law, who hails from Slovakia. The dish consists of halusky dumplings coated in a creamy cheese sauce and topped with caramelized onions and bacon. It’s interesting to note that you can recreate the authentic flavor of this dish even without Slovakia’s famous bryndza sheep cheese, as Slovak immigrant women adapted the recipe using locally available ingredients in their new homes.
White Bean & Smoked Pork Stew
An authentic recipe for “grah,” a traditional Croatian peasant stew made with white beans, vegetables, and smoked pork, passed down from my mother and grandmother.
German Split Pea Soup (Erbsensuppe)
A traditional German Split Pea Soup, also known as Erbsensuppe, is a recipe you’ll want to prepare over and over again. This timeless, hearty soup has been a beloved dish in German households for years, cherished for its robust flavors and healthy, cost-effective ingredients.
Garlicky Mussels In a Red Wine Tomato Sauce
Indulge in the exquisite flavors of tender mussels enveloped in a rich red wine tomato sauce infused with the savory goodness of pancetta or bacon. This wholesome Mediterranean seafood creation is perfect as a delightful starter or a truly fulfilling dinner option!
German Sauerkraut Soup (Sauerkrautsuppe)
A traditional German sauerkraut soup recipe features simple and delicious meatballs cooked in a flavorful broth with sauerkraut, potatoes, and carrots. It’s a hearty and satisfying meal that’s perfect for any time of the year.
Slovak Strapačky Halušky (Sauerkraut and Bacon)
Slovak strapachky, also known as strapatchki, consist of halusky potato dumplings served with sauerkraut, caramelized onions, and smoky bacon. This dish is a beloved classic in Slovak cuisine, celebrated for its robust and comforting flavors. Below, you’ll find an authentic, time-honored recipe for preparing strapachky halusky.
Authentic German Rouladen
Transport yourself to the heart of Germany with the timeless and cherished classic dish known as authentic German Rouladen. Picture tender beef rolls cradling a delectable blend of bacon, onions, mustard, and pickles, all bathed in a luscious, simmering gravy.
Segedínský Guláš (Pork & Sauerkraut Stew)
Juicy pork pieces simmered in a flavorful sauce infused with paprika, beef broth, sauerkraut, and sour cream. This hearty stew boasts a rich and vibrant flavor profile. Segedínský guláš is a classic Hungarian goulash known as Székelykáposzta or Szegedin Goulash.
Hearty Roasted Vegetable Salad
This leafy green salad is brimming with delicious roasted seasonal veggies, making it a fantastic option for your lunches and dinners. A great salad includes a variety of seasonal roasted veggies that can be easily swapped based on your preferences and what’s available.
Easy Cheesy Loaded Scalloped Potatoes
Indulge in the rich, comforting flavors of cheesy, bacon-infused scalloped potatoes, a delightful side dish that can be prepared in advance and reheated to perfection.
German Bread Dumplings (Semmelknödel)
German Bread Dumplings, known as Semmelknödel, are a delightful Bavarian side dish that truly shines when paired with rich gravies or savory sauces. Crafted from a blend of bread, eggs, and milk, these delectable dumplings are elevated by the addition of finely diced onions, fragrant parsley, and savory bacon.
And speaking of sauces and gravies…
Creamy German Hunter’s Sauce (Jägersoße)
The Jägersoße, also known as Jägersauce, is a classic German sauce that boasts a rich and robust flavor derived from a delectable blend of mushrooms, onions, and often bacon or speck, adding an extra layer of depth. While it is commonly paired with schnitzel, a breaded pork or veal cutlet, this versatile sauce also complements other meats like steak or venison.
German Potato Soup (Kartoffelsuppe)
Savor the rich flavors of this nourishing German potato soup (Kartoffelsuppe), featuring hearty root vegetables, savory bone broth, and smoky bacon. It’s a delightful and satisfying dish that’s sure to be a hit with the entire family.
Bratwurst Sausage And Sauerkraut
Bratwurst and sauerkraut make a delicious and simple one-pot or skillet dinner. This classic pairing of German sausage and braised sauerkraut is smoky, sour, slightly sweet, and perfectly savory comfort food. You’re going to LOVE this recipe.
Pork, Bean & Sauerkraut Soup (Istrian Jota)
This hearty soup or stew originated in Istria and is popular in Italy, Croatia, and Slovenia. Jota comes in many variations, but it always includes three key ingredients: pork, beans, and sauerkraut, creating a deliciously smoky and sour flavor.
