Print

Creamy Bacon & Mushroom Pasta

Creamy Bacon & Mushroom Pasta
Print Recipe

Creamy Bacon & Mushroom Pasta is a comforting and indulgent dish that combines smoky bacon, tender mushrooms, and a rich, velvety cream sauce perfectly coating your favorite long pasta. Quick and easy to prepare, this recipe is ideal for busy weeknights yet impressive enough for guests, offering a deliciously satisfying and cozy meal.

Ingredients

Protein & Vegetables

  • Bacon: 6-8 slices, chopped into bite-sized pieces
  • Fresh mushrooms: 8 oz, sliced (cremini, button, or shiitake)
  • Garlic: 2 cloves, minced

Dairy & Sauce

  • Heavy cream: 1 cup
  • Parmesan cheese: 1 cup, freshly grated
  • Butter: 2 tablespoons

Pasta & Oils

  • Fettuccine, linguine, or preferred long pasta: 12 oz
  • Olive oil: 1 tablespoon

Optional Garnishes & Add-ins

  • Fresh herbs (parsley or thyme): 2 tablespoons, chopped (optional)
  • Crushed red pepper flakes or hot sauce (optional)
  • Spinach, kale, or arugula (optional)

Instructions

  1. Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook your chosen pasta according to the package instructions until al dente. Reserve a cup of pasta water before draining to help loosen the sauce later if needed.
  2. Prepare the Bacon: While the pasta cooks, chop the bacon into bite-sized pieces. Cook it in a large skillet over medium heat until crisp and golden. Remove and drain on paper towels, leaving the bacon fat in the pan for extra flavor.
  3. Sauté the Mushrooms and Garlic: In the same skillet with bacon fat, add olive oil if needed, then sauté sliced mushrooms until tender and caramelized. Add minced garlic towards the end and cook for just a minute until fragrant, being careful not to burn it.
  4. Make the Cream Sauce: Lower the heat and pour in the heavy cream. Stir gently to combine with mushrooms and garlic. Add grated Parmesan cheese gradually, stirring continuously until melted and the sauce thickens to a creamy consistency.
  5. Combine Pasta, Bacon & Sauce: Add the cooked pasta and crispy bacon back into the skillet. Toss everything together to coat in the sauce, using reserved pasta water a little at a time if the sauce feels too thick. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
  6. Finish and Serve: Remove from heat and sprinkle with fresh herbs if using. Serve immediately for the best texture and flavor that will have everyone asking for seconds.

Notes

  • Use Quality Bacon: Smokier bacon elevates the dish’s overall flavor profile significantly.
  • Don’t Overcook Mushrooms: Sauté just until golden to retain their moisture and bite.
  • Reserve Pasta Water: It’s a lifesaver when adjusting sauce consistency without watering down flavor.
  • Freshly Grated Cheese: Always grate Parmesan fresh for creamier melting and superior taste.
  • Work Quickly: Combine all elements while warm to keep the sauce silky and prevent clumping.

Nutrition

Keywords: creamy pasta, bacon pasta, mushroom pasta, comfort food, quick dinner, weeknight recipe

Find it online: https://mealsbymary.com/creamy-bacon-mushroom-pasta/