Let’s be honest—if there’s bacon involved, it’s already a win. But when you throw in a creamy, garlicky Parmesan sauce that clings to every bite of Creamy Bacon Pasta? That’s what I call next-level comfort food.
This creamy bacon pasta is one of those bacon meals easy dinners that feels indulgent without requiring hours in the kitchen. It’s quick, it’s rich, and it’s the perfect way to treat yourself after a long day (or, you know, just because).
If you’re looking for more delicious pasta recipes, check out my Chicken Bacon Ranch Pasta—another comforting dish packed with flavor.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Fast and easy – Ready in 30 minutes, because hunger waits for no one.
- Ultra-creamy sauce – Made with Parmesan, heavy cream, and bacon drippings.
- Crispy bacon in every bite – Because chewy bacon is just… sad.
- Perfect for fall – If you’re looking for simple fall recipes dinners, this is a great option.
- Endlessly customizable – Add mushrooms, spinach, or extra cheese.
What You’ll Need
Main Ingredients:
- 8 oz fettuccine (or whatever pasta you have on hand)
- 6 slices bacon, chopped
- 1 cup heavy cream
- ¾ cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- ½ cup reserved pasta water
- Fresh parsley or basil for garnish (optional)
Optional Add-Ons:
- A squeeze of lemon – Brightens up the richness.
- Red pepper flakes – For a little kick.
- Sautéed mushrooms or spinach – Because balance, right?
- Grilled chicken or shrimp – A protein boost for heartier meals.
For another high-protein pasta dish, try this High Protein Pasta Bake—it’s just as comforting but packs in more protein.
How to Make Creamy Bacon Pasta
1. Boil the Pasta
Get a big pot of well-salted water boiling. Drop in your pasta and cook it until al dente—nobody wants mushy noodles. Before draining, scoop out ½ cup of pasta water and set it aside.
2. Cook the Bacon
Meanwhile, heat a large skillet over medium heat and toss in the chopped bacon. Let it cook until it’s golden brown and crispy, stirring occasionally.
Once the bacon is crisp, transfer it to a paper towel-lined plate. Leave about two tablespoons of bacon grease in the pan—this is where the flavor lives.
3. Make the Sauce
Lower the heat to medium-low and toss in the minced garlic. Sauté for about a minute, just until fragrant.
Now, pour in the heavy cream and stir. Let it simmer for a few minutes, thickening into pure silk.
Time for the magic touch—stir in the grated Parmesan. Keep stirring until it melts into the sauce.
4. Put It All Together
Add the cooked pasta straight into the skillet and toss it like you mean it. If the sauce is too thick, gradually stir in reserved pasta water until it’s perfectly creamy.
Now, the best part—stir in that crispy bacon and season with salt and black pepper to taste.
5. Garnish and Devour
Transfer to plates (or just eat straight from the pan, no judgment). Sprinkle with fresh parsley or basil, then dig in while it’s hot.
For another creamy and flavorful pasta dish, you’ll love this Marry Me Chicken Pasta—it’s just as rich and satisfying.
Tips for the Best Creamy Bacon Pasta
- Use freshly grated Parmesan – That pre-shredded stuff won’t melt as well.
- Save the pasta water – It’s the secret to a silky sauce.
- Don’t overcook the garlic – Burnt garlic tastes like sadness.
- Cook bacon over medium heat – Too high, and it burns; too low, and it’s chewy.
- Toss the pasta in the sauce right away – The sauce thickens fast, so coat the pasta immediately.
Ways to Customize This Recipe
- Make it spicy – Add red pepper flakes or a dash of cayenne.
- Make it even richer – Stir in a pat of butter at the end.
- Add more veggies – Mushrooms, spinach, or sun-dried tomatoes work beautifully.
- Swap out the bacon – Pancetta or prosciutto are great alternatives.
If you’re wondering what to make with spaghetti noodles, try using them instead of fettuccine for a delicious bacon spaghetti recipe.
What to Serve with Creamy Bacon Pasta
- A simple arugula salad – The peppery bite balances the creamy pasta.
- Garlic bread – Because carbs on carbs is always a good idea.
- Roasted veggies – Asparagus or Brussels sprouts add some freshness.
- A glass of white wine – Chardonnay or Pinot Grigio work beautifully.
How to Store and Reheat
- Refrigerate: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to three days.
- Reheat: Warm over low heat, adding a splash of milk or cream to revive the sauce.
- Freezing? Not a great idea—the sauce can separate.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use a different pasta shape?
Absolutely. Penne, rigatoni, spaghetti, or even short pasta like farfalle all work well.
How do I lighten this up?
Swap heavy cream for half-and-half or use Greek yogurt for a tangy twist.
Can I make this ahead of time?
The sauce is best fresh, but you can prep the bacon and pasta in advance and reheat gently.
Why did my sauce get grainy?
You probably added the Parmesan too fast or over high heat. Lower the heat and stir it in gradually.
More Recipes You’ll Love
- Chicken Bacon Ranch Pasta – A creamy, cheesy twist on a classic favorite.
- High Protein Pasta Bake – A filling, muscle-building meal.
- Marry Me Chicken Pasta – Creamy, cheesy, and packed with flavor.
Creamy Bacon Pasta
Ingredients
- 8 oz fettuccine or preferred pasta
- 6 slices bacon chopped
- 1 cup heavy cream
- ¾ cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 cloves garlic minced
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- ½ cup reserved pasta water
- Fresh parsley or basil for garnish (optional)
- Optional Additions:
- A squeeze of lemon
- Red pepper flakes
- Sautéed mushrooms or spinach
- Grilled chicken or shrimp
Instructions
- Boil the Pasta: Bring a pot of salted water to a boil and cook pasta until al dente. Reserve ½ cup of pasta water before draining.
- Cook the Bacon: In a large skillet over medium heat, cook chopped bacon until crispy. Remove and drain on a paper towel-lined plate, leaving 2 tablespoons of bacon grease in the pan.
- Make the Sauce: Lower the heat to medium-low and sauté minced garlic for about a minute. Add heavy cream and let it simmer for 3–4 minutes. Stir in grated Parmesan until smooth.
- Combine Everything: Add the cooked pasta to the sauce, tossing to coat. If the sauce is too thick, gradually add reserved pasta water until smooth. Stir in crispy bacon. Season with salt and pepper.
- Serve: Garnish with fresh parsley or basil and serve immediately.
Notes
- Use freshly grated Parmesan for a smooth, creamy sauce.
- Save the pasta water to adjust the sauce consistency as needed.
- Don’t overcook the garlic to prevent bitterness.
- Want extra richness? Stir in a small pat of butter at the end.
This creamy bacon pasta is pure comfort food. Whether you’re making it for a weeknight dinner, date night, or just because you’re craving something amazing, this dish never disappoints.
So go ahead—make it, enjoy it, and don’t be shy about licking the plate clean.
