This creamy bacon pasta recipe is the perfect comfort food! Made with crispy bacon, a luscious cream sauce, and tender pasta, it's a quick and satisfying dish for any occasion.
Author:Tina
Prep Time:10 minutes
Cook Time:15 minutes
Total Time:25 minutes
Yield:4 servings
Category:Pasta
Method:Stovetop
Cuisine:American
Diet:Gluten Free
Ingredients
Scale
12 oz pasta (such as fettuccine or penne)
6 slices bacon, chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 cup heavy cream
½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
½ teaspoon black pepper
½ teaspoon salt
½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
¼ cup pasta water (reserved)
2 tablespoons unsalted butter
2 tablespoons chopped parsley (for garnish)
Instructions
Cook pasta according to package instructions. Reserve ¼ cup pasta water and drain.
In a large skillet, cook chopped bacon over medium heat until crispy. Remove bacon and set aside, leaving about 2 tablespoons of grease in the pan.
Add garlic to the skillet and sauté for 30 seconds until fragrant.
Stir in heavy cream, butter, Parmesan cheese, salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes. Simmer for 2-3 minutes.
Add drained pasta to the skillet and toss to coat. If the sauce is too thick, add reserved pasta water a little at a time.
Stir in cooked bacon and mix well.
Garnish with parsley and serve immediately.
Notes
Use freshly grated Parmesan for the best flavor.
Substitute heavy cream with half-and-half for a lighter option.
Add mushrooms or spinach for extra texture and nutrition.