Creamy bacon pasta is the perfect dish when you crave something rich, comforting, and utterly satisfying. The combination of crispy bacon, luscious cream, and tender pasta creates a symphony of flavors that dance on your palate. This recipe is not only quick to whip up, but it also serves beautifully for a family dinner or a cozy date night in. Get ready to indulge in a bowl of creamy goodness that will warm your heart!
Table of Contents
Why You’ll Love Creamy Bacon Pasta
Quick and Easy Preparation
This creamy bacon pasta comes together in just 30 minutes, making it an ideal choice for busy weeknights. With simple steps and readily available ingredients, you’ll find that making a delicious meal can be both fast and enjoyable.
Flavorful Combination of Ingredients
The blend of crispy bacon, savory mushrooms, and a creamy sauce creates a comforting dish that is both hearty and delicious. Each bite is a delightful mix of textures and flavors that will leave you craving more.
Perfect for Any Occasion
Whether it’s a family gathering or a romantic dinner, creamy bacon pasta brings a touch of elegance to any table. Pair it with a green salad or some crusty bread for a complete meal that everyone will love.
What You’ll Need
Essential Ingredients
- 8 ounces uncooked pasta (bucatini, spaghetti, or linguine)
- 6 strips bacon, cut into small pieces
- 8 ounces cremini mushrooms, sliced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/3 cup chicken broth or dry white wine
- 1/4 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1 teaspoon lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon flour
- 1/2 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- 1 cup heavy cream
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional for serving: freshly grated parmesan cheese and chopped parsley
Recommended Kitchen Tools
- Large pot for boiling pasta
- Skillet for cooking
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Colander for draining pasta
- Wooden spoon for stirring
How to Make Creamy Bacon Pasta
Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions
- Cook the pasta in salted boiling water until al dente, following package directions.
- In a skillet, fry the bacon over medium-high heat until crispy. Transfer to a paper towel-lined plate, leaving the fat in the pan.
- Add sliced mushrooms to the skillet and cook for about 5-6 minutes until they release their moisture.
- Stir in minced garlic and cook for an additional 30 seconds.
- Remove the mushrooms from the skillet and place them on the plate with the bacon.
- In the skillet, combine chicken broth or wine, Italian seasoning, lemon juice, flour, and Dijon mustard; stir for about a minute.
- Pour in the cream and let it simmer for approximately 2 minutes.
- Return the bacon and mushrooms to the skillet, heating through for a few more minutes until slightly thickened.
- Drain the pasta and mix it into the skillet, seasoning with salt and pepper to taste. Serve with parmesan cheese and parsley if desired.
Substitutions and Variations
Alternative Ingredients
If you’re looking to switch things up, cremini mushrooms can be replaced with white mushrooms or whatever variety you prefer. For those who want a lighter dish, you can use lower-fat alternatives to cream, but be cautious, as they may curdle if cooked over high heat.
Adding Freshness with Spinach
For an added burst of color and nutrition, consider folding in some fresh spinach towards the end of cooking until just wilted. This not only enhances the flavor but also makes your dish more vibrant.
What to Serve with Creamy Bacon Pasta
Suggested Pairings
This creamy bacon pasta pairs wonderfully with crusty bread, garlic bread, or a refreshing green salad with your favorite dressing. These sides will complement the richness of the pasta beautifully.
Leftovers and Storage
Best Practices for Storing Leftovers
For optimal freshness, consume your creamy bacon pasta right away. However, if you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the fridge for a few days. Be sure to reheat gently.
Reheating Tips
When reheating, you can add a splash of wine or cream to keep the sauce from becoming too thick. Avoid microwaving, as it can lead to uneven heating.
More Delicious Recipes to Try Next
- Creamy Smothered Chicken and Rice
- Slow Cooker Creamy Sausage Tortellini Soup
- Baked Cream Cheese Chicken Taquitos
- Creamy Ranch Chicken Crockpot
- Loaded Potato Taco Bowl
FAQs
What is cream of bacon used for?
Cream of bacon is typically used as a base for sauces, soups, and pasta dishes, adding a rich and savory flavor.
What is the secret to cooking bacon?
The secret to cooking bacon is to use medium heat to allow the fat to render slowly, achieving crispy, evenly cooked bacon.
How much bacon for carbonara?
For carbonara, about 4 to 6 ounces of bacon or pancetta is commonly used per serving, depending on preference.
What meal can I make with bacon?
Bacon can enhance many dishes such as salads, pastas, breakfast items, and even gourmet burgers.
Conclusion
Creamy bacon pasta is a delicious choice that is sure to impress family and friends alike. For more delightful ideas and inspiration, check out Elly’s Recipes on Pinterest. Happy cooking!
Creamy Bacon Pasta
Equipment
- pot
- skillet
- paper towel
Ingredients
- 8 ounces uncooked pasta (bucatini, spaghetti, or linguine)
- 6 strips bacon, cut into small pieces
- 8 ounces cremini mushrooms, sliced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/3 cup chicken broth or dry white wine
- 1/4 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1 teaspoon lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon flour
- 1/2 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- 1 cup heavy cream
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional for serving: freshly grated parmesan cheese and chopped parsley
Instructions
- Cook the pasta in salted boiling water until al dente, following package directions.
- Fry the bacon in a skillet over medium-high heat until crispy, then transfer to a paper towel-lined plate.
- Add the mushrooms to the skillet and cook for 5-6 minutes until they release moisture.
- Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional 30 seconds before removing the mushrooms.
- In the skillet, combine broth or wine, Italian seasoning, lemon juice, flour, and Dijon mustard, stirring for about a minute.
- Pour in the cream and let it simmer for approximately 2 minutes.
- Return the bacon and mushrooms to the skillet, heat through, then mix in the drained pasta, seasoning with salt and pepper.
- Serve with parmesan cheese and parsley if desired.