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Creamy Bacon & Mushroom Pasta

Creamy Bacon & Mushroom Pasta
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Creamy Bacon & Mushroom Pasta is a comforting and rich dish combining smoky, crispy bacon with tender mushrooms in a luscious cream sauce that perfectly coats your choice of pasta. Easy to prepare and adaptable, this recipe is perfect for busy weeknights or relaxed weekend dinners, delivering a deliciously satisfying meal with simple ingredients.

Ingredients

Scale

Primary Ingredients

  • 6 thick-cut bacon strips
  • 8 oz fresh cremini or button mushrooms, sliced
  • 12 oz pasta of choice (fettuccine or penne recommended)
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • 3 garlic cloves, minced
  • 1/2 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
  • 2 tablespoons butter
  • Salt, to taste
  • Freshly cracked black pepper, to taste
  • 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped

Instructions

  1. Cook the pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook your preferred pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve one cup of pasta water before draining the pasta to help adjust the sauce consistency later.
  2. Crisp the bacon: While the pasta cooks, heat a skillet over medium heat and cook the bacon strips until golden and crispy. Remove bacon and place on paper towels to drain. Keep the rendered bacon fat in the skillet for the next step.
  3. Sauté the mushrooms and garlic: Add a knob of butter to the skillet with the bacon fat. Sauté the sliced mushrooms until tender and browned. Add minced garlic and cook just until fragrant, taking care not to let it turn bitter.
  4. Prepare the creamy sauce: Pour in the heavy cream and stir to combine with the mushrooms. Bring to a gentle simmer. Add the finely chopped bacon and freshly grated Parmesan cheese, stirring until the cheese melts and the sauce thickens slightly.
  5. Combine pasta and sauce: Return the drained pasta to the skillet. Toss gently to coat pasta evenly with the creamy sauce. If the sauce is too thick, add reserved pasta water a little at a time to reach a silky consistency.
  6. Season and garnish: Finish with freshly cracked black pepper and a pinch of salt if needed. Sprinkle with chopped fresh parsley for a pop of color and freshness. Serve immediately.

Notes

  • Use quality artisanal or thick-cut bacon for maximum flavor and texture.
  • Sauté mushrooms in batches if needed to prevent steaming and ensure proper browning.
  • Reserve pasta water as the starchy liquid helps emulsify the sauce for perfect texture.
  • Grate fresh Parmesan cheese yourself for best meltability and sauce texture.
  • For a lighter sauce, mix heavy cream with a splash of milk or broth.

Nutrition

Keywords: creamy pasta, bacon pasta, mushroom pasta, easy dinner, weeknight meal, comfort food, creamy sauce

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