Are you craving a comforting, flavorful meal that's ready in under 30 minutes? Look no further! This creamy bacon pasta recipe is the perfect solution for busy weeknights. It's incredibly easy to make, packed with deliciousness, and surprisingly healthy. Forget complicated recipes; this one is a simple masterpiece of homemade cooking, guaranteed to become a family favorite. Get ready to elevate your pasta night!
Ingredients:
- 8 ounces pasta (penne, rigatoni, or your favorite shape)
- 4 slices bacon, diced
- 1 small onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
- Optional: Red pepper flakes for a spicy kick
Instructions:
Get Started:
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook according to package directions until al dente. Reserve about 1/2 cup of pasta water before draining.
Cook the Bacon & Vegetables:
-
While the pasta is cooking, cook the diced bacon in a large skillet over medium heat until crispy. Remove the bacon with a slotted spoon and set aside, reserving the bacon grease in the skillet.
-
Add the chopped onion to the skillet with the bacon grease and cook until softened, about 5 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic.
Create the Creamy Sauce:
- Pour in the heavy cream and bring to a simmer. Reduce heat to low and let it simmer gently for about 5 minutes, allowing the sauce to thicken slightly.
Combine & Serve:
-
Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese, cooked pasta, crispy bacon, and chopped parsley. Season with salt and pepper to taste. If the sauce is too thick, add a little of the reserved pasta water until you reach your desired consistency.
-
Serve immediately and enjoy your delicious creamy bacon pasta!
Tips & Variations:
- Spice it up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the sauce for a little heat.
- Add some veggies: Include sautéed mushrooms, spinach, or bell peppers for extra flavor and nutrients.
- Cheese it up: Experiment with different cheeses like Gruyere, Asiago, or even a blend of Italian cheeses.
- Make it lighter: Use half-and-half or milk instead of heavy cream for a lower-fat version. You might need to add a tablespoon of cornstarch to thicken the sauce.
- Boost the flavor: A splash of white wine added to the sauce during simmering enhances the depth of flavor.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
This information is an estimate and will vary based on specific ingredients used.
- Calories: Approximately 450-500
- Fat: Approximately 30-35g
- Protein: Approximately 15-20g
- Carbohydrates: Approximately 40-45g
This easy recipe is perfect for a quick and delicious weeknight dinner. It’s a fantastic example of how simple, healthy meals can be both satisfying and incredibly flavorful. This creamy bacon pasta is a surefire way to impress your family and friends with minimal effort. Enjoy!