Creamy Bacon Pasta
A rich and creamy pasta dish infused with smoky bacon, perfect for weeknight dinners and gatherings.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 8 oz Pasta of choice
- 4 slices Bacon Use quality bacon for optimal flavor.
- 1 cup Tomato sauce Fresh or store-bought.
- 1 cup Heavy cream Can substitute with half-and-half for lighter version.
- 2 cloves Garlic, minced Sauté on low heat to avoid burning.
- 1/2 cup Parmesan cheese, grated
- 1 tsp Salt
- 1 tsp Pepper
- 1 tbsp Olive oil
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
Instructions
Cooking the Pasta
- Cook the pasta according to package instructions in a large pot of salted boiling water until al dente, usually about 8-10 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
Preparing the Sauce
- In a large skillet, cook the bacon over medium heat for 5-7 minutes until crispy and golden brown. Remove from the skillet and set aside on paper towels to drain excess grease.
- Without cleaning the skillet, add a tablespoon of olive oil and minced garlic. Sauté over medium heat until fragrant, about 1-2 minutes, stirring frequently to prevent burning.
- Stir in the tomato sauce and heavy cream. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, allowing it to bubble at the edges for about 3-4 minutes until slightly thickened.
Combining Ingredients
- Add the cooked pasta, crispy bacon, and grated Parmesan cheese to the skillet. Toss gently to combine, ensuring the pasta is well-coated with the sauce.
- Season with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning to taste, and mix again until everything is well incorporated.
Serving
- Serve hot, garnished with additional Parmesan cheese or fresh herbs if desired.
Notes
Storing leftovers requires placing in an airtight container and refrigerating for up to 3 days. For freezing, ensure it has cooled completely and transfer to a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months.