Description
Creamy Bacon Pasta is a simple, indulgent dish loaded with crispy bacon, tender pasta, and a rich, creamy sauce. This quick and delicious recipe is perfect for a comforting weeknight meal, combining the savory flavors of bacon, Parmesan, and garlic.
Ingredients
Units
Scale
- 12 oz (340g) pasta (penne, rigatoni, or spaghetti)
- 8 slices bacon, chopped
- 2 tbsp butter
- 4 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 cup (240ml) heavy cream
- 1/2 cup (120ml) chicken broth
- 1 cup (100g) grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
- Salt, to taste
- 1/4 cup (15g) chopped fresh parsley (for garnish)
Instructions
- Cook the Pasta:
- Cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water, then drain and set aside.
- Cook the Bacon:
- In a large skillet, cook the chopped bacon over medium heat until crispy, about 5-7 minutes.
- Transfer the cooked bacon to a plate lined with paper towels. Remove excess bacon fat, leaving about 2 tbsp in the skillet.
- Make the Sauce:
- In the same skillet, add the butter and minced garlic. Sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
- Pour in the heavy cream and chicken broth, stirring well. Bring to a gentle simmer.
- Add the grated Parmesan cheese, black pepper, and red pepper flakes (if using). Stir until the cheese melts and the sauce is smooth.
- Combine with Pasta and Bacon:
- Add the cooked pasta and crispy bacon to the skillet. Toss to coat, adding reserved pasta water a little at a time if the sauce is too thick.
- Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and more pepper, if needed.
- Serve:
- Garnish with chopped fresh parsley and serve hot!
Notes
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- Add flavor: Stir in cooked mushrooms, peas, or spinach for extra nutrition.
- Make it spicy: Add extra red pepper flakes or a drizzle of hot sauce.
- Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop.