This creamy bacon pasta sauce is an addictive and rich dish that can be prepared in just 15 minutes. It’s versatile, allowing you to incorporate any vegetables you have on hand, making it an ideal choice for a quick and satisfying meal.

FULL RECIPE:

Ingredients

• 200–240 g dried pasta or 300–350 g fresh pasta
• 15 g butter
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 4–5 rashers streaky bacon, chopped into small pieces
• 3 cups fresh vegetables, chopped (e.g., broccoli, courgettes)
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup single or light cream
• ½ cup finely grated Parmesan cheese
• Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
• Salt, to taste

Directions

1. Cook the Pasta: Boil the pasta in a large pot of salted water according to the package instructions, undercooking by one minute to ensure it remains al dente. Reserve a cup of pasta water before draining.
2. Prepare the Bacon: In a large skillet, melt the butter with the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the chopped bacon and cook until crispy, approximately 4–5 minutes. Use a slotted spoon to remove the bacon, leaving the rendered fat in the skillet.
3. Sauté the Vegetables: Reduce the heat slightly and add the chopped vegetables to the skillet. Toss to coat them in the bacon fat and cook until they begin to soften.
4. Add Garlic: Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional 1–2 minutes until fragrant.
5. Create the Sauce: Pour in the cream and add freshly ground black pepper. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. Sprinkle the finely grated Parmesan cheese over the top and stir until it melts into the cream, creating a smooth sauce.
6. Combine with Pasta: Add the cooked pasta directly into the skillet with the sauce. Pour in a small amount of the reserved pasta water and toss to combine, ensuring the pasta is well-coated.
7. Incorporate Bacon: Return the crispy bacon pieces to the skillet and mix thoroughly. Let the dish simmer gently for 1–2 minutes to allow the flavors to meld and the sauce to thicken. If the sauce becomes too thick, add more pasta water to achieve the desired consistency.
8. Season and Serve: Taste and adjust the seasoning with additional salt and pepper as needed. Serve immediately, garnished with extra Parmesan cheese if desired.

Nutritional Information

• Calories: ~600–700 kcal
• Total Fat: ~40–45g
  • Saturated Fat: ~20–25g
• Cholesterol: ~80–100mg
• Sodium: ~600–800mg
• Total Carbohydrates: ~50–55g
  • Dietary Fiber: ~2–4g
  • Sugars: ~3–5g
• Protein: ~15–20g

Why You’ll Love This Creamy Bacon Pasta Sauce

This creamy bacon pasta sauce is a game-changer for pasta lovers. It’s indulgent, rich, and packed with flavor. The crispy bacon adds a smoky depth, while the cream and Parmesan cheese create a velvety smooth sauce that coats every strand of pasta perfectly. The dish is incredibly versatile, making it an excellent option for a quick weeknight dinner or even an impressive meal for guests. One of the best things about this recipe is its adaptability. You can use different types of pasta, swap out the vegetables based on what’s in your fridge, or even adjust the level of creaminess to your preference. The combination of bacon, garlic, and cheese is a tried-and-true favorite, making this dish irresistible.

Tips for the Perfect Creamy Bacon Pasta Sauce

• Use High-Quality Bacon: The better the bacon, the better the flavor. Opt for thick-cut, smoky bacon for the best results.
• Don’t Overcook the Pasta: Since the pasta will continue to cook in the sauce, undercook it slightly to keep it from becoming too soft.
• Reserve Pasta Water: The starchy water helps bind the sauce, making it creamy without being overly thick.
• Use Freshly Grated Parmesan: Pre-shredded cheese often contains anti-caking agents that prevent it from melting smoothly.
• Balance the Flavors: Bacon is salty, so be careful when adding additional salt. Taste as you go!

Best Pasta for This Recipe

While this sauce pairs well with most pasta types, some work better than others:

• Fettuccine & Linguine: Their flat shape holds the creamy sauce well.
• Penne & Rigatoni: Their hollow centers trap the sauce, making each bite flavorful.
• Spaghetti: A classic choice that blends seamlessly with the rich sauce.

Avoid delicate pastas like angel hair, as they tend to get overwhelmed by the heavy sauce.

Customizations and Variations

• Add Protein: Want extra protein? Try adding grilled chicken, shrimp, or even pancetta for a different flavor profile.
• Make It Spicy: Add red pepper flakes or a pinch of cayenne pepper to give it a spicy kick.
• Vegetarian Option: Omit the bacon and use sautéed mushrooms or sun-dried tomatoes for an umami boost.
• Lighter Version: Substitute half-and-half or a milk-based sauce instead of heavy cream for a lower-calorie option.

Pairing Suggestions

This creamy bacon pasta sauce pairs beautifully with various side dishes and drinks. Some great options include:

• Garlic Bread: The buttery, crispy bread complements the creamy sauce perfectly.
• Caesar Salad: A fresh and tangy salad balances the richness of the dish.
• White Wine: A dry white wine like Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio cuts through the creaminess.

Health Considerations and Dietary Adjustments

While this dish is undeniably delicious, it is also rich in fats and calories due to the bacon, cream, and cheese. If you’re looking for a healthier alternative, here are some adjustments you can make:

• Lower-Fat Version: Use light cream or a mix of Greek yogurt and milk instead of heavy cream.
• Reduce Sodium: Opt for low-sodium bacon and reduce the added Parmesan cheese.
• Increase Fiber: Use whole wheat or legume-based pasta for added fiber and nutrients.
• Gluten-Free Option: Swap regular pasta for gluten-free alternatives like rice or chickpea pasta.

Storage and Reheating Tips

• Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
• Freezing: While cream-based sauces don’t always freeze well, you can freeze this dish in portions for up to a month. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
• Reheating: Reheat gently on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of milk or cream to bring back the creamy consistency. Avoid microwaving at high power, as the sauce may separate.

Conclusion

This creamy bacon pasta sauce is the ultimate comfort food, bringing together rich, savory, and creamy flavors in one dish. It’s easy to make, incredibly satisfying, and perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re cooking for yourself, your family, or a group of friends, this dish is guaranteed to impress. Try it today and discover why it’s a favorite among pasta lovers!