STEP 1: COOK THE PASTA

Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook according to the package instructions until al dente, usually 8-10 minutes. Be sure to stir occasionally to prevent the pasta from sticking. Once the pasta is done, reserve 1/4 cup of pasta water (you may need it later to adjust the sauce’s consistency). Drain the pasta and set it aside.

STEP 2: COOK THE BACON

While the pasta cooks, heat a large skillet over medium heat. Add the bacon strips and cook for about 6-8 minutes, turning occasionally, until the bacon is crispy and browned. Once crispy, remove the bacon from the skillet and place it on a paper towel-lined plate to drain the excess fat. Once cooled, crumble or chop the bacon into bite-sized pieces. Keep the bacon drippings in the skillet, as they will add flavor to the dish.

STEP 3: SAUTE THE TOMATOES AND GARLIC

In the same skillet with the bacon drippings, add the olive oil and heat over medium heat. Toss in the cherry tomatoes (or chopped tomato) and cook for about 3-4 minutes until the tomatoes soften and begin to burst, releasing their juices. If you’re using minced garlic, add it to the skillet now and cook for another 30 seconds, just until fragrant. If you’re using garlic powder, add it when you add the heavy cream in the next step.

STEP 4: MAKE THE CREAMY SAUCE

Add the heavy cream to the skillet with the tomatoes and garlic, stirring to combine. Let the mixture simmer gently for 2-3 minutes, allowing the sauce to thicken slightly. Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese and season with salt and pepper to taste. Continue to simmer for another 2-3 minutes until the sauce becomes smooth and creamy. If the sauce is too thick, add a splash of the reserved pasta water or chicken broth to achieve your desired consistency.

STEP 5: COMBINE PASTA AND SAUCE

Add the cooked pasta to the skillet with the creamy tomato sauce. Toss to combine, ensuring the pasta is well-coated in the sauce. If the sauce seems too thick or if the pasta isn’t fully coated, add a little more pasta water or broth to loosen the sauce. Stir in the crumbled bacon and fresh spinach (or arugula), and cook for another minute, just until the greens have wilted and everything is evenly mixed.

STEP 6: SERVE AND GARNISH

Once everything is combined and heated through, transfer the pasta to serving plates. Garnish with fresh herbs like basil or parsley, and serve with an extra sprinkle of Parmesan cheese for added flavor.