Start by browning the chopped bacon in a large pot.

Once it's crispy, remove it and set it aside in a bowl to rest.

In the remaining bacon fat, sauté the chopped onions until soft.

When the onions are cooked, take the pot off the heat and stir in the paprika.

Chop the tomatoes and bell pepper (if using), and add them to the onion base.

Peel, wash, and dice the potatoes, then toss them into the pot as well.

Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Add enough water to cover the potatoes and start cooking them.

Once the potatoes are almost done, add a bit more water so everything is covered again, and stir in the pasta.

After 4–5 minutes, mix in the bacon and cook until the pasta is fully done.

Ready to serve!