Are you craving a comforting, flavorful meal that's ready in under 30 minutes? Look no further! This creamy pasta with bacon recipe is the perfect solution for busy weeknights. It's surprisingly easy to make, packed with deliciousness, and satisfying enough to be a complete meal. Forget takeout – homemade happiness is just a few simple steps away! This recipe is a fantastic example of easy recipes and healthy meals that don't compromise on taste. It's one of those best recipes that even novice cooks can master.
Ingredients:
- 1 pound pasta (penne, rotini, or your favorite shape)
- 6 slices bacon, diced
- 1 small onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 ½ cups heavy cream
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- ¼ cup chopped fresh parsley
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
- Optional: Red pepper flakes for a touch of heat
Instructions:
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook according to package directions until al dente. Reserve about ½ cup of pasta water before draining.
Step 2: Crisp the Bacon
While the pasta is cooking, cook the 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.
Step 3: Sauté the Aromatics
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.
Step 4: Create the Creamy Sauce
Pour in the heavy cream and bring to a simmer. Reduce heat to low and simmer for 5 minutes, or until the sauce slightly thickens. Stir in the Parmesan cheese until melted and smooth.
Step 5: Combine and Serve
Add the cooked pasta to the skillet with the creamy sauce. Toss to coat evenly. If the sauce is too thick, add a little of the reserved pasta water until you reach your desired consistency. Stir in the crispy bacon and chopped parsley. Season with salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes (if using) to taste. Serve immediately and enjoy your delicious homemade meal!
Tips & Variations:
- Spice it up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of your favorite hot sauce for a little kick.
- Add some veggies: Sauté some mushrooms, spinach, or bell peppers with the onion and garlic for extra flavor and nutrients. This is a great way to sneak in extra vegetables for a more balanced quick dinner idea.
- Cheese please: Experiment with different cheeses! Asiago, Pecorino Romano, or a blend of Italian cheeses would all be delicious additions.
- Make it lighter: Use half-and-half or milk instead of heavy cream for a lighter, healthier version.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
- Calories: Approximately 450-500
- Fat: 25-30g
- Protein: 15-20g
- Carbohydrates: 40-50g
This creamy pasta with bacon recipe is a quick, delicious, and satisfying meal perfect for any night of the week. It's a great example of how easy it is to create delicious dishes at home using simple ingredients and straightforward techniques. This makes it ideal for anyone looking for easy recipes and healthy meals, and solidifies its position among the best recipes for homemade cooking. Enjoy!