Rich Garlic Parmesan Bacon Pasta

Rich Garlic Parmesan Bacon Pasta is a decadent, flavor-packed dish perfect for a comforting weeknight dinner. Crispy bacon, tender pasta, and a creamy Parmesan-garlic sauce come together effortlessly in just 30 minutes. It’s a satisfying meal that delivers indulgent flavor with minimal effort.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This dish is the ideal combination of indulgent and easy. It’s ready in just half an hour, making it perfect for busy evenings. The garlic-infused Parmesan cream sauce is velvety and rich, while the crispy bacon adds irresistible crunch and flavor. You can customize it with vegetables or spice it up with red pepper flakes, making it as versatile as it is delicious.

ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

• 12 oz (340g) pasta (penne, rigatoni, or spaghetti)
• 8 slices bacon, chopped
• 2 tbsp butter
• 4 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 cup (240ml) heavy cream
• 1/2 cup (120ml) chicken broth
• 1 cup (100g) grated Parmesan cheese
• 1/2 tsp black pepper
• 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
• Salt, to taste
• 1/4 cup (15g) chopped fresh parsley (for garnish)

directions

1. Cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of the pasta water, then drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the chopped bacon until crispy, about 5–7 minutes. Transfer to a plate lined with paper towels. Discard excess bacon fat, leaving about 2 tablespoons in the skillet.
3. Add the butter and minced garlic to the skillet. Sauté for 1–2 minutes until fragrant.
4. Pour in the heavy cream and chicken broth. Stir and bring to a gentle simmer.
5. Add Parmesan cheese, black pepper, and red pepper flakes (if using). Stir until the cheese melts and the sauce is smooth.
6. Add the cooked pasta and crispy bacon back into the skillet. Toss to combine, adding reserved pasta water as needed to thin the sauce.
7. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and more pepper if necessary.
8. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley and serve hot.

Servings and timing

Yield: 4 servings
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes

Variations

• Vegetable Add-ins: Stir in sautéed mushrooms, spinach, or peas for added nutrition.
• Protein Options: Add grilled chicken or shrimp for extra protein.
• Cheese Twist: Mix in a bit of mozzarella or Asiago for a cheesier variation.
• Lighter Version: Use half-and-half instead of heavy cream for a lighter sauce.
• Spicy Kick: Increase red pepper flakes or add a dash of hot sauce for heat.

storage/reheating

• Storage: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Reheating: Reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of milk or cream to loosen the sauce if needed. Microwave reheating is also possible but may affect the sauce’s texture.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of pasta?

Yes, any short or long pasta like fusilli, fettuccine, or linguine works well.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

It is best served fresh, but you can make it a few hours in advance and reheat gently before serving.

What can I substitute for heavy cream?

Half-and-half or full-fat milk with a tablespoon of flour can be used, but the sauce will be less rich.

Is this recipe gluten-free?

Not as written, but you can use gluten-free pasta and ensure other ingredients are certified gluten-free.

Can I use pre-shredded Parmesan?

Freshly grated Parmesan is recommended for the smoothest sauce, but pre-shredded can work in a pinch.

How do I prevent the sauce from becoming too thick?

Add reserved pasta water gradually until the sauce reaches your desired consistency.

Is chicken broth necessary?

It adds depth, but you can substitute vegetable broth or use all cream in its place.

How do I make this vegetarian?

Omit the bacon and replace chicken broth with vegetable broth. Add mushrooms or other vegetables for flavor.

Can I freeze this pasta?

Freezing is not recommended, as the cream-based sauce may separate when reheated.

What wine pairs well with this dish?

A dry white wine such as Chardonnay or Sauvignon Blanc complements the creamy, savory flavors.

Conclusion

Rich Garlic Parmesan Bacon Pasta is the perfect combination of creamy, cheesy, and savory with a comforting dose of crisp bacon. It’s a fuss-free recipe that feels luxurious without taking much time, ideal for busy nights or casual gatherings. With just a few simple ingredients, this dish brings restaurant-quality flavor to your home kitchen.

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