How to Make Creamy Bacon and Mushroom Pasta
Creamy bacon and mushroom pasta is a rich and savory dish that combines smoky bacon, tender mushrooms, and a luscious cream sauce. It is perfect for weeknight dinners or a cozy weekend meal. Each bite is indulgent yet simple to prepare.
This recipe uses basic ingredients like pasta, bacon, mushrooms, cream, and Parmesan cheese. The result is a flavorful and satisfying pasta dish that pairs well with a light salad or garlic bread.
Ingredients Needed
| Ingredient | Quantity | Calories |
|---|---|---|
| Pasta | 12 oz | 420 |
| Bacon chopped | 6 slices | 270 |
| Mushrooms sliced | 2 cups | 30 |
| Olive oil | 1 tbsp | 120 |
| Garlic minced | 3 cloves | 12 |
| Heavy cream | 1 cup | 820 |
| Parmesan cheese grated | 1/2 cup | 215 |
| Salt and pepper | To taste | 0 |
| Fresh parsley chopped | 2 tbsp | 2 |
Step by Step Preparation
Cook the pasta
Boil pasta in salted water until al dente. Drain and reserve a little pasta water.
Cook the bacon
In a large pan, cook chopped bacon until crispy. Remove bacon and set aside, leaving some fat in the pan.
Sauté mushrooms and garlic
Add olive oil if needed and sauté mushrooms until golden. Stir in garlic and cook until fragrant.
Make the creamy sauce
Pour in heavy cream and bring to a gentle simmer. Add Parmesan cheese and stir until smooth and creamy.
Combine pasta and bacon
Add cooked pasta and crispy bacon to the sauce. Toss well to coat evenly, adding pasta water for desired consistency.
Garnish and serve
Season with salt, pepper, and fresh parsley. Serve immediately with extra Parmesan if desired.
Tips for Customizing the Recipe
Add cooked chicken, shrimp, or sausage for extra protein. Swap heavy cream for half and half or milk for a lighter version. Red pepper flakes can be added for a touch of heat.
Use different mushrooms like cremini or shiitake for deeper flavor. Add spinach or peas for a vegetable boost. Drizzle a little truffle oil for a gourmet twist.
Nutritional Information
A serving of creamy bacon and mushroom pasta contains approximately 550 to 600 calories. Bacon adds protein and flavor, while cream and Parmesan contribute richness and fat.
Mushrooms provide fiber and antioxidants, making the dish both indulgent and nutritious. Serve with a side of vegetables to balance the meal.
Serving Suggestion
Serve this pasta with garlic bread or a fresh green salad. A light white wine complements the creamy sauce perfectly.
Garnish with extra Parmesan and fresh herbs for an elegant presentation. Ideal for casual dinners or special occasions.
How to Store and Keep Fresh
Store leftover pasta in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove with a splash of cream or milk to restore creaminess.
Avoid freezing, as the cream sauce may separate. Best enjoyed fresh for optimal flavor.
Conclusion
Creamy bacon and mushroom pasta is a quick and indulgent meal that is easy to make at home. Its smoky, savory, and creamy flavors make it irresistible.
Perfect for weeknight dinners or a cozy meal, it is simple yet impressive. Once tried, it becomes a go-to favorite for pasta lovers.
FAQs
Q1. Can I use turkey bacon instead of regular bacon?
Yes, turkey bacon works well but has a milder flavor.
Q2. How do I make the sauce thicker?
Simmer the cream a bit longer or add extra Parmesan to thicken the sauce.
Q3. Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?
Yes, store pasta and sauce separately and reheat gently before serving.
