Description
Indulge in the rich and satisfying flavors of Creamy Bacon Pasta! This easy-to-make dish features crispy bacon, tender pasta, and a luscious, cheesy cream sauce that coats every bite. Whether you’re cooking for a family dinner or treating yourself to a comforting meal, this pasta recipe is guaranteed to be a favorite.
Ingredients
For the Pasta:
- 12 oz fettuccine or penne pasta
- 1 tablespoon salt (for boiling water)
For the Bacon and Sauce:
- 6 slices bacon, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup whole milk
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- ¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- ½ teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
For Garnish:
-
- ¼ cup chopped parsley
- ½ cup crispy bacon bits (reserved from cooking)
- Extra Parmesan cheese for topping
Instructions
- Cook the Pasta:
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
- Add the pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente.
- Drain and set aside, reserving ½ cup of pasta water.
- Cook the Bacon:
- In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the chopped bacon until crispy, about 5-7 minutes.
- Remove the bacon and place it on a paper towel-lined plate. Leave about 2 tablespoons of bacon grease in the skillet.
- Make the Creamy Sauce:
- Add minced garlic to the skillet and sauté for 1 minute until fragrant.
- Pour in the heavy cream and milk, stirring to combine.
- Add Parmesan cheese, black pepper, red pepper flakes, salt, and Italian seasoning.
- Stir continuously over low heat until the cheese melts and the sauce thickens.
- Combine Everything:
- Add the cooked pasta to the skillet and toss to coat in the sauce.
- Stir in the crispy bacon, reserving some for garnish.
- If the sauce is too thick, add a splash of reserved pasta water to loosen it.
- Serve and Enjoy:
- Plate the pasta and sprinkle with fresh parsley, crispy bacon bits, and extra Parmesan cheese.
- Serve immediately and enjoy the creamy, smoky goodness!
Notes
-
- For a spicier kick, add extra red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce.
- Use freshly grated Parmesan for the best texture and flavor.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
- Reheat with a splash of milk to restore creaminess.
- Pair with garlic bread or a fresh salad for a complete meal.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stove Top
- Cuisine: Italian-American