Creamy Garlic Mushroom and Bacon Pasta
This Creamy Garlic Mushroom and Bacon Pasta is a rich and indulgent dish, combining crispy bacon, sauteed mushrooms, and a velvety garlic parmesan cream sauce. It’s a quick and easy meal that delivers restaurant-quality flavor in under 30 minutes, making it perfect for a comforting weeknight dinner or an elegant meal for guests.
Prep & Cook Time
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes
Ingredients
For the Pasta & Sauce:
12 oz pasta (spaghetti, fettuccine, or penne)
6 slices bacon, chopped
1 tablespoon olive oil (if needed)
8 oz mushrooms, sliced (button, cremini, or portobello)
4 cloves garlic, minced
1 cup heavy cream
½ cup chicken broth (or pasta water)
½ teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
½ teaspoon black pepper
½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
¼ cup fresh parsley, chopped
½ teaspoon dried thyme (or 1 teaspoon fresh)
Optional Add-ins:
½ cup cooked chicken (for extra protein)
½ cup spinach (for added greens)
Instructions
1. Cook the Pasta:
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
Cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente.
Reserve ½ cup of pasta water, then drain and set aside.
2. Cook the Bacon:
In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the chopped bacon until crispy (about 5 minutes).
Remove the bacon with a slotted spoon and set it aside on a paper towel.
If there’s excess grease, drain some but leave about 1 tablespoon in the pan for flavor.
3. Saute the Mushrooms & Garlic:
In the same pan, add the sliced mushrooms and saute for 4-5 minutes, until they become tender and golden.
Stir in the minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.
4. Make the Cream Sauce:
Pour in the chicken broth (or pasta water) and let it simmer for 1-2 minutes, scraping up any browned bits.
Lower the heat and add the heavy cream, salt, black pepper, red pepper flakes, and thyme. Stir to combine.
Simmer for 2-3 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.
5. Combine Everything:
Stir in the Parmesan cheese until melted and smooth.
Add the drained pasta and toss to coat evenly in the sauce.
If the sauce is too thick, add a splash of reserved pasta water until it reaches your desired consistency.
6. Finish & Serve:
Return the crispy bacon to the pan and mix it in.
Garnish with fresh parsley and extra Parmesan cheese.
Serve immediately and enjoy!
Nutritional Information
Calories: 600-650 kcal
Protein: 22g
Carbohydrates: 60g
Fat: 35g
Saturated Fat: 15g
Cholesterol: 70mg
Fiber: 3g
Sodium: 800mg (varies based on bacon and cheese)
(Nutritional values are estimates and may vary based on ingredients used.)
Notes & Tips
Pasta Choice: Spaghetii, fettuccine, or penne work best for holding the creamy sauce.
Mushroom Options: Use button, crimini, or even shiitake mushrooms for different textures and flavors.
Lighter Version: Substitute half-and-half instead of heavy cream, or use a mix of cream and milk to reduce calories.
Extra Flavor: Add a splash of white wine after sauteing the mushrooms for a richer taste.
Storage & Reheating: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat on the stove with a splash of cream or broth to bring back the creaminess.
This Creamy Garlic Mushroom and Bacon Pasta is a luxurious yet simple dish, perfect for those craving a rich, comforting meal. The balance of crispy bacon, earthy mushrooms, and a garlicky parmesan sauce makes it a guaranteed hit! Enjoy!