It is 6pm. You are tired. Dinner needs to happen fast. This Bacon Garlic Pasta is the answer to your busiest nights.
There is something so cozy about savory bacon on a crisp fall evening. This recipe delivers big flavor with very little effort. It is warm, salty, and perfectly golden.
Why You Will Love This Recipe
This recipe is a total winner because it uses simple pantry staples. You likely have pasta and garlic in your kitchen right now. It is ideal for busy fall weeknights when you need comfort fast.
The salty bacon and sharp parmesan create a restaurant-quality meal at home. Your whole family will love this savory, satisfying dish. It feels like a treat but takes almost no time to make.
Simple Method
The process is incredibly simple and stress-free for any home cook. You cook the pasta while the bacon gets nice and crispy. The secret is using pasta water to make a silky sauce. Even beginners can master this easy technique with confidence.
Simple Ingredients
These ingredients are easy to find and deliver maximum fresh flavor.
- 400g spaghetti
- 250g thick-cut bacon, diced
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 60ml extra virgin olive oil
- 50g grated parmesan cheese
- 15g fresh flat-leaf parsley, chopped
- 5g kosher salt
- 2g freshly cracked black pepper
Step-by-Step
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the spaghetti according to package instructions until al dente.
- While the pasta cooks, place the diced bacon in a large skillet over medium heat and fry until crisp.
- Remove the bacon with a slotted spoon and set aside on paper towels, leaving 2 tablespoons of bacon fat in the skillet.
- Add the olive oil and minced garlic to the skillet, sautéing over medium-low heat for 2 minutes until fragrant but not browned.
- Reserve 120ml of the pasta cooking water before draining the spaghetti.
- Add the drained spaghetti to the skillet with the garlic and oil, tossing thoroughly to coat.
- Incorporate the reserved pasta water, crispy bacon, and grated parmesan cheese.
- Toss over low heat until a light emulsion forms and the cheese is melted.
- Season with salt and black pepper, garnish with chopped parsley, and serve immediately.
Best Ways to Enjoy It
Serve this warm in big, shallow bowls for a cozy feel. It looks beautiful with a sprinkle of extra parsley on top. Pair it with a simple green salad or some warm bread. Set the table and enjoy a relaxing family meal tonight.
How to Store Leftovers
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in your fridge. It stays fresh for up to three days. Reheat it in a pan with a splash of water. This helps the sauce become creamy and smooth again. Avoid the microwave to keep the pasta texture perfect.
Recipe Tips
- Do not skip the pasta water because it creates the sauce.
- Avoid burning the garlic or it will taste bitter.
- Use thick-cut bacon for the best chewy and crunchy texture.
- Grate your own parmesan for a much smoother melt.
- Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a little heat.
- Double the recipe if you are feeding a larger crowd.
- Use a large skillet to make tossing the pasta easier.
Ways to Switch It Up
- Swap spaghetti for fettuccine or penne if you prefer.
- Add fresh summer peas for a bright pop of color.
- Use gluten-free pasta to make this meal allergy-friendly.
- Substitute bacon with pancetta for a more traditional Italian flavor.
- Stir in a handful of spinach at the end for greens.
Quick Answers
Can I make this ahead of time?
This dish is best served fresh for the best texture. However, you can crisp the bacon earlier in the day. Just reheat everything together when you are ready to eat.
What if I don’t have fresh parsley?
You can use dried parsley or even fresh basil instead. Fresh herbs add a lovely brightness to the heavy bacon. Even a squeeze of lemon juice works in a pinch.
Is this recipe kid-approved?
Yes, most kids love the simple flavors of bacon and cheese. It is a picky-eater friendly meal that adults enjoy too. It is a win for the whole table.
I hope this cozy Bacon Garlic Pasta brightens your fall evenings. Give it a try and let every savory bite warm you up. Happy cooking!
— Lidia
Bacon Garlic Pasta
Ingredients
- 400 g spaghett i
- 250 g thick -cut bacon, diced
- 4 cloves garlic , minced
- 60 ml extra virgin olive oil
- 50 g grated parmesan cheese
- 15 g fresh flat-leaf parsley, chopped
- 5 g kosher salt
- 2 g freshly cracked black pepper
Instructions
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the spaghetti according to package instructions until al dente.
- While the pasta cooks, place the diced bacon in a large skillet over medium heat and fry until crisp.
- Remove the bacon with a slotted spoon and set aside on paper towels, leaving 2 tablespoons of bacon fat in the skillet.
- Add the olive oil and minced garlic to the skillet, sautéing over medium-low heat for 2 minutes until fragrant but not browned.
- Reserve 120ml of the pasta cooking water before draining the spaghetti.
- Add the drained spaghetti to the skillet with the garlic and oil, tossing thoroughly to coat.
- Incorporate the reserved pasta water, crispy bacon, and grated parmesan cheese.
- Toss over low heat until a light emulsion forms and the cheese is melted.
- Season with salt and black pepper, garnish with chopped parsley, and serve immediately.
