A simple and delicious spread combines creamy ricotta with crispy bacon and fresh tomatoes for a perfect balance of flavors. It’s a quick way to elevate your breakfast or snack with minimal effort.
Prep Time15 min
Cook Time10 min
Total Time25 min
Difficulty
Easy
Pro Kitchen Tips
Use fresh, ripe tomatoes for the best flavor and juiciness.
Cook the bacon until crispy but not burnt to add a nice crunch.
Toast the bread just before serving to keep it warm and prevent sogginess.
Ingredients
0/7
What Makes This Recipe Unique
This dish offers a perfect balance of creamy, salty, and fresh flavors. The smooth ricotta pairs beautifully with crispy bacon and juicy tomatoes, making it a satisfying and quick meal. It’s great for breakfast, brunch, or even a light snack.
Directions
Cook the bacon in a large skillet over medium-high heat, turning it now and then until it’s nicely browned, which should take about 10 minutes. Once cooked, transfer the bacon to paper towels to drain and let it cool before crumbling it into bite-sized pieces. While the bacon cooks, mix the cherry tomatoes, Parmesan, basil, salt, and pepper together in a small bowl to create a fresh topping. Next, heat up a cast iron grill pan over medium-high heat. Brush both sides of your bread slices with olive oil, then grill them until you see nice marks and the bread is toasted—this usually takes 2 to 3 minutes per side. Spread a generous layer of ricotta on the warm toast, pile on the tomato mixture, and finish off with the crumbled bacon. Cut each piece in half and dig in!
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people cooked this recipe
ByRyan Parker
Ryan shares simple recipes made for everyday cooking and easy family meals.
Serving Ideas To Try
Serve with a side of mixed greens or a simple arugula salad dressed with lemon juice and olive oil. A drizzle of balsamic glaze over the top adds a sweet and tangy touch that complements the savory ingredients well.
Storage Instructions
Store any leftover ricotta spread in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Keep bacon and tomatoes separate if possible to maintain their texture. Toast is best enjoyed fresh but can be reheated briefly in a toaster.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use turkey bacon instead of regular bacon?
Yes, turkey bacon works well as a leaner alternative and can be cooked the same way.
What type of bread is best for this recipe?
Thick, crusty bread like sourdough or ciabatta holds up well and toasts nicely.
Can I prepare the tomato mixture ahead of time?
Yes, you can mix the tomatoes, Parmesan, basil, salt, and pepper up to a few hours in advance and keep it refrigerated.
How do I get nice grill marks on the bread?
Use a hot cast iron grill pan and brush both sides of the bread with olive oil before grilling for 2-3 minutes per side.
Is there a substitute for ricotta cheese?
Yes, you can use cream cheese or mascarpone for a similar creamy texture.
Can I make this recipe vegetarian?
Absolutely! Simply omit the bacon and you’ll still have a delicious, flavorful spread.
How do I store leftovers?
Store components separately in airtight containers in the fridge and assemble just before serving for best texture.
Can I use sun-dried tomatoes instead of fresh tomatoes?
Fresh cherry tomatoes are best for this recipe, but you can use chopped sun-dried tomatoes for a more intense flavor.
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