Go Back
Creamy Bacon Pasta Recipe
Ben Carraoli

Creamy Bacon Pasta Recipe

I have to tell you, I’ve made this creamy bacon pasta more times than I can count, and it never fails to impress. The first time I tried it, I was blown away by how rich and comforting it tasted with just a few simple ingredients.
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Servings: 4
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 8 oz spaghetti or your favorite pasta – I love using spaghetti for this but any long noodle works well.
  • 6 slices smoked bacon – Smoked bacon adds a deep savory flavor; feel free to swap with ham if you prefer.
  • 1 small yellow onion diced – Brown, white, or yellow onions work; they add sweetness and depth.
  • 1 cup heavy cream – Heavy or thickened cream is essential; lighter creams won’t thicken properly.
  • 1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese – Grating your own gives a smoother creamier sauce.
  • 2 cloves garlic minced – Fresh garlic adds punch; skip the powdered stuff if you can.
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt – Adjust to taste; remember the bacon is salty too.
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper – Freshly ground for the best flavor.
  • 1/2 cup reserved pasta cooking water – Helps the sauce coat the pasta perfectly.

Method
 

  1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve ½ cup of pasta cooking water before draining the sauce.
  2. While pasta cooks, dice bacon and cook it in a skillet over medium heat until crisp. Remove bacon and set aside. Sauté onions and garlic in the remaining bacon fat until soft and fragrant.
  3. Lower the heat and pour in heavy cream, stirring to combine. Add Parmesan gradually, whisking until the sauce is smooth and silky. Season with salt and pepper, then stir in the reserved bacon.
  4. Add the drained pasta to the skillet, tossing to coat evenly. Pour in some reserved pasta water if the sauce needs thinning. Serve immediately with extra Parmesan sprinkled on top.

Notes

  • I always save some pasta water to perfect the sauce consistency.
  • Using freshly grated Parmesan really elevates the flavor.
  • Cook the bacon until slightly crispy but not burnt; it gives the best texture.
  • I like adding a handful of peas or spinach at the end; it sneaks in some veggies for the kids.
  • Let the sauce sit for a minute before tossing the pasta; it helps everything blend perfectly.