Creamy Bacon Pasta

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.

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!

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.