Craving a dish that’s both comforting and decadent? Look no further than bacon pasta! This delightful recipe marries crispy bacon with al dente pasta in a creamy sauce that’s sure to tantalize your taste buds. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a cozy weekend feast, it’s a dish that delivers both flavor and satisfaction. Let’s dive into the ingredients and steps to create this mouthwatering meal!
Ingredients
– 200g spaghetti
– 150g bacon, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 200ml heavy cream
– 50g grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley for garnish
Servings and Cooking Time
This recipe serves 2 people. Preparation time is about 10 minutes, while cooking time is approximately 15 minutes.
Nutritional Value
Each serving contains approximately 650 calories, 35g fat, 45g carbohydrates, and 20g protein. This is based on a serving size of 1 plate of bacon pasta.
Step-by-Step Cooking Process
1. Boil a pot of salted water and cook spaghetti according to package instructions.
2. Meanwhile, in a large skillet, cook the diced bacon over medium heat until crispy.
3. Remove bacon and drain excess fat, leaving a little in the pan.
4. Add minced garlic to the skillet and sauté for 1 minute.
5. Pour in the heavy cream and bring to a simmer.
6. Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese until melted and smooth.
7. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
8. Drain the cooked spaghetti and add to the skillet.
9. Toss to coat the pasta in the creamy sauce.
10. Mix in the crispy bacon and garnish with chopped parsley.
Alternative Ingredients
You can substitute the heavy cream with half-and-half or a plant-based cream for a lighter option. For a vegetarian twist, replace bacon with sautéed mushrooms or smoked tempeh.
Serving and Pairings
Bacon pasta pairs wonderfully with a side salad or garlic bread. For drinks, consider a crisp white wine or a refreshing sparkling water.
Storage and Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of cream to restore the sauce’s creaminess. This dish is not recommended for freezing, as the cream may separate.
Cooking Mistakes
- Overcooking the pasta can make it mushy.
- Adding cheese too quickly can lead to clumping.
- Not draining the bacon fat properly can make the dish greasy.
- Forgetting to season the sauce can result in bland flavor.
- Using low-quality bacon may affect the overall taste.
Helpful Tips
- Use fresh ingredients for the best flavor.
- Cook bacon in batches for even crispiness.
- Reserve pasta water to adjust sauce consistency.
- Experiment with different cheeses for unique flavors.
FAQs
Can I use gluten-free pasta for this recipe?
Yes, gluten-free pasta works well! Just adjust the cooking time according to the package instructions.
What can I substitute for Parmesan cheese?
Pecorino Romano or nutritional yeast can be used as alternatives for a similar flavor profile.
Is it possible to make this dish dairy-free?
Absolutely! Use coconut cream and nutritional yeast for a dairy-free version that’s still creamy and delicious.
How can I make this recipe spicier?
Add red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the cream sauce for an extra kick.
Can I add vegetables to this dish?
Yes! Spinach, peas, or broccoli can be great additions to enhance flavor and nutrition.
Conclusion
Bacon pasta is a delightful dish that combines rich flavors and easy preparation, making it a perfect choice for any home cook. Whether for a casual dinner or a special occasion, this recipe is sure to impress. Enjoy every creamy bite!
Bacon Pasta
Ingredients
- 200 g spaghetti
- 150 g bacon diced
- 2 cloves garlic minced
- 200 ml heavy cream
- 50 g grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions
- Boil a pot of salted water and cook spaghetti according to package instructions.
- In a large skillet, cook the diced bacon over medium heat until crispy.
- Remove bacon and drain excess fat, leaving a little in the pan.
- Add minced garlic to the skillet and sauté for 1 minute.
- Pour in the heavy cream and bring to a simmer.
- Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese until melted and smooth.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Drain the cooked spaghetti and add to the skillet.
- Toss to coat the pasta in the creamy sauce.
- Mix in the crispy bacon and garnish with chopped parsley.
Nutrition
