Get ready to indulge in a world of creamy, crispy, and utterly delicious pasta dishes – all featuring the star of the show: bacon! Whether you’re a classic carbonara fan or a spicy pasta lover, we’ve got you covered with our collection of 18 mouth-watering creamy bacon pasta recipes. From comforting classics like Creamy Garlic Bacon Pasta to innovative twists like Spicy Bacon Carbonara and Smoky Bacon Tomato Pasta, each dish is packed with rich flavors and textures that are sure to satisfy your cravings.
In this article, we’ll take you on a culinary journey through the world of creamy bacon pasta, featuring recipes that blend the savory goodness of bacon with the comfort of pasta. So grab your apron, get cooking, and get ready to fall in love with these delectable dishes!
Creamy Garlic Bacon Pasta
A rich and savory pasta dish that combines the flavors of garlic, bacon, and cream.
Ingredients:
– 12 oz pasta of your choice (e.g. penne, fusilli)
– 6 slices of thick-cut bacon, diced
– 3 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet, cook diced bacon over medium heat until crispy. Remove from heat and set aside.
3. In the same skillet, add minced garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
4. Pour in heavy cream and bring mixture to a simmer. Let cook for 2-3 minutes or until slightly thickened.
5. Stir in Parmesan cheese until melted and well combined. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Add cooked pasta to the skillet, tossing to combine with creamy sauce and bacon bits.
7. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Spicy Bacon Carbonara
Elevate your pasta game with this spicy spin on a timeless Italian favorite. Smoky bacon, crispy shallots, and a kick of heat make for a bold and rich dish.
Ingredients:
– 12 oz spaghetti
– 6 slices of thick-cut bacon
– 1 large onion, thinly sliced
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup heavy cream
– 1 tablespoon hot sauce (e.g., sriracha)
– Salt and black pepper, to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese, for serving
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook spaghetti according to package instructions until al dente.
2. In a skillet, cook bacon over medium heat until crispy. Remove from heat and set aside.
3. Add onion and garlic to the same skillet and sauté until caramelized.
4. Add cooked spaghetti to the skillet, tossing with hot sauce and heavy cream. Season with salt and black pepper to taste.
5. Top with crumbled bacon and grated Parmesan cheese.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Bacon Alfredo Pasta Bake
A comforting and flavorful twist on classic Alfredo pasta, this recipe adds crispy bacon and a golden-brown crust to make it a satisfying weeknight dinner.
Ingredients:
– 12 oz (340g) fettuccine pasta
– 6 slices of cooked bacon, crumbled
– 1 cup (250ml) heavy cream
– 2 tbsp unsalted butter
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup (120g) grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook pasta according to package instructions; set aside.
3. In a large skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add garlic and cook for 1 minute.
4. Pour in heavy cream and bring mixture to a simmer. Stir in Parmesan cheese until melted and smooth.
5. Add cooked pasta, crumbled bacon, salt, and pepper to the skillet; toss until coated.
6. Transfer the pasta mixture to a baking dish and top with additional grated Parmesan cheese.
7. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Maple Bacon Mac and Cheese
Maple Bacon Mac and Cheese Recipe
Savor the sweet and savory combination of maple syrup, crispy bacon, and creamy macaroni and cheese.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz macaroni
– 4 cups milk
– 2 cups grated cheddar cheese
– 1 cup grated mozzarella cheese
– 6 slices of cooked bacon, crumbled
– 2 tbsp pure maple syrup
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook macaroni according to package instructions until al dente.
3. In a large saucepan, melt 2 tbsp butter over medium heat.
4. Add flour and whisk together for 1 minute.
5. Gradually add milk, whisking constantly to avoid lumps.
6. Bring mixture to a simmer and cook for 2-3 minutes or until thickened.
7. Remove from heat and stir in cheddar and mozzarella cheese until melted and smooth.
8. Add crumbled bacon and maple syrup; season with salt and pepper.
9. In a large mixing bowl, combine cooked macaroni and cheese sauce.
10. Transfer to a baking dish and top with additional grated cheese if desired.
11. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Serve hot and enjoy!
Bacon and Mushroom Pasta
A classic combination of smoky bacon, earthy mushrooms, and al dente pasta creates a satisfying and savory dish perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz. spaghetti
– 6 slices of bacon, diced
– 1 cup mixed mushrooms (button, cremini, shiitake), sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup white wine (optional)
– 1 tbsp olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese, for serving (optional)
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook spaghetti according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water before draining.
2. In a large skillet, cook diced bacon over medium heat until crispy. Remove from heat and set aside.
3. Add sliced mushrooms and minced garlic to the same skillet. Cook until mushrooms release their moisture and start to brown.
4. Add white wine (if using) and stir to deglaze the pan. Cook for an additional 2 minutes.
5. Combine cooked spaghetti, reserved pasta water, and mushroom mixture in a large serving bowl. Toss to combine, ensuring pasta is well coated.
6. Top with crispy bacon, salt, and pepper to taste. Serve with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Smoky Bacon Tomato Pasta
Satisfy your cravings with this mouthwatering pasta dish that combines the richness of smoky bacon, the sweetness of tomatoes, and the heartiness of a one-pot meal.
Ingredients:
– 12 oz spaghetti
– 6 slices of thick-cut smoked bacon, diced
– 2 large onions, thinly sliced
– 3 large garlic cloves, minced
– 1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes
– 1/4 cup chicken broth
– 1 tsp dried oregano
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook spaghetti according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water before draining.
2. In a large pot, cook diced bacon over medium heat until crispy. Remove from pot with a slotted spoon and set aside.
3. Add sliced onions and minced garlic to the pot; cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
4. Stir in crushed tomatoes, chicken broth, and dried oregano. Bring mixture to a simmer.
5. Add cooked spaghetti to the pot, tossing to combine. If needed, add some reserved pasta water to achieve desired consistency.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Serve hot, topped with crispy bacon bits and grated Parmesan cheese (if using).
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Bacon Ranch Pasta Salad
Savor the flavors of a classic comfort food with this creamy and savory pasta salad featuring crispy bacon, fresh herbs, and a tangy ranch dressing.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz. pasta (bowtie or penne work well)
– 6 slices of bacon
– 1/2 cup ranch seasoning
– 1 cup mayonnaise
– 1/2 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 1/4 cup grated cheddar cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet, cook the bacon over medium heat until crispy. Remove from heat and chop into small pieces.
3. In a large bowl, combine cooked pasta, chopped bacon, ranch seasoning, mayonnaise, parsley, and cheddar cheese.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld together.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Bacon Spinach Pasta Toss
A quick and flavorful pasta dish that combines crispy bacon, wilted spinach, and savory garlic, perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz. pasta of your choice (e.g., spaghetti, linguine)
– 6 slices of bacon, diced
– 2 cups fresh spinach leaves
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water before draining.
2. In a large skillet, cook diced bacon over medium heat until crispy. Remove from heat and set aside.
3. In the same skillet, add olive oil and sauté garlic until fragrant.
4. Add fresh spinach leaves to the skillet and wilt with tongs or spoon. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Combine cooked pasta, bacon, and spinach mixture in a large serving bowl. Toss to combine, adding reserved pasta water if needed.
6. Serve hot, topped with grated Parmesan cheese (if using).
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Bacon and Pea Pasta Primavera
Celebrate spring with this vibrant pasta dish featuring crispy bacon, sweet peas, and a hint of garlic. This quick and easy recipe is perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz. pasta (such as bowtie or penne)
– 6 slices of thick-cut bacon, diced
– 1 cup fresh peas
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet, cook diced bacon over medium heat until crispy. Remove from pan with a slotted spoon and set aside.
3. In the same pan, add minced garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
4. Add fresh peas to the pan and cook for 2-3 minutes until tender.
5. Combine cooked pasta, cooked bacon, and pea mixture in a large bowl.
6. Sprinkle Parmesan cheese over the top and season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Garnish with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Cheesy Bacon Tortellini
Elevate your pasta game with this creamy, cheesy, and smoky dish that combines the flavors of bacon, Parmesan, and mozzarella. This recipe serves 4-6 people.
Ingredients:
– 1 package tortellini (cheese-filled)
– 6 slices of cooked bacon, crumbled
– 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
– 1/4 cup heavy cream
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook tortellini according to package instructions.
3. In a large skillet, combine crumbled bacon, Parmesan cheese, and mozzarella cheese. Cook over medium heat until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
4. Add heavy cream to the skillet and stir until combined. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Combine cooked tortellini with the cheesy bacon mixture.
6. Transfer the pasta to a baking dish and top with additional Parmesan cheese.
7. Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the cheese is golden brown.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Bacon Pesto Pasta
A classic Italian-inspired dish gets a smoky twist with crispy bacon and vibrant pesto sauce, all wrapped up in al dente pasta.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz. pasta of your choice (e.g., spaghetti or linguine)
– 6 slices of thick-cut bacon
– 1/2 cup freshly made or store-bought pesto sauce
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 tablespoon of pasta water before draining.
2. In a large skillet, cook the bacon over medium heat until crispy. Remove from heat and set aside.
3. Add the pesto sauce to the same skillet and stir to combine with any remaining bacon fat. Bring to a simmer for about 30 seconds.
4. Add the cooked pasta to the skillet, tossing to coat with the pesto sauce. If needed, add some reserved pasta water to achieve desired consistency.
5. Stir in the Parmesan cheese until melted. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve immediately, topped with crispy bacon slices.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Bacon and Egg Spaghetti
Elevate your pasta game with this savory twist on a classic dish. Crispy bacon, fluffy eggs, and al dente spaghetti come together in a flavorful and filling meal.
Ingredients:
– 12 oz spaghetti
– 6 slices of bacon, diced
– 2 large eggs
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook spaghetti according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water before draining.
2. In a large skillet, cook diced bacon over medium heat until crispy. Remove from heat and set aside.
3. Crack eggs into the same skillet and scramble them with a fork until desired doneness is reached. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Add cooked spaghetti to the skillet with the eggs and toss to combine.
5. Stir in Parmesan cheese and reserved pasta water (if needed) to create a creamy sauce.
6. Top with crispy bacon and chopped parsley (if using).
7. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Bacon Jalapeño Pasta
This creamy pasta dish combines the smoky flavor of bacon with the bold heat of jalapeños, perfect for those who love a little spice. With just a few ingredients and simple steps, you can create a satisfying meal in no time.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz pasta of your choice
– 6 slices of bacon, diced
– 2 jalapeños, seeded and sliced
– 1/4 cup heavy cream
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet, cook the diced bacon over medium-high heat until crispy. Remove from heat and set aside.
3. In the same skillet, add the sliced jalapeños and cook for 2-3 minutes or until slightly softened.
4. Add the heavy cream to the skillet and stir to combine with the jalapeños. Bring to a simmer and let cook for 1-2 minutes or until slightly thickened.
5. Combine cooked pasta, crispy bacon, and creamy jalapeño sauce in a serving dish. Toss to combine and season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve hot, topped with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Bacon and Brussels Sprouts Pasta
A flavorful and healthy pasta dish that combines the richness of crispy bacon with the earthy sweetness of roasted Brussels sprouts.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz. pasta of your choice (e.g., penne, fusilli)
– 6 slices of bacon
– 1 lb. Brussels sprouts, trimmed and halved
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
3. In a large skillet, cook bacon over medium heat until crispy. Remove from heat and set aside.
4. In the same skillet, add olive oil, garlic, and Brussels sprouts. Roast in the oven for 20-25 minutes or until tender and caramelized.
5. Toss cooked pasta with roasted Brussels sprouts, crumbled bacon, salt, and pepper to taste.
6. Serve hot, topped with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Bacon Vodka Sauce Pasta
This recipe combines the smoky flavor of bacon with the boldness of vodka to create a decadent pasta dish. Perfect for special occasions or cozy nights in.
Ingredients:
– 12 oz spaghetti
– 6 slices of bacon, diced
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 cup of heavy cream
– 1/4 cup of vodka (preferably Italian)
– 1 cup of grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook spaghetti according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet, cook the diced bacon over medium heat until crispy. Remove from heat and set aside.
3. In the same skillet, add the minced garlic and sauté for 1 minute.
4. Add the heavy cream, vodka, and Parmesan cheese to the skillet. Stir until smooth and heated through.
5. Combine cooked spaghetti with the bacon and sauce mixture. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Bacon and Sun-Dried Tomato Pasta
This recipe combines the smoky richness of bacon with the tangy sweetness of sun-dried tomatoes, all wrapped up in a deliciously simple pasta dish. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a weekend brunch.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz. pasta (linguine or fettuccine work well)
– 6 slices of bacon, diced
– 1/4 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook pasta according to package instructions.
2. In a large skillet, cook bacon over medium heat until crispy. Remove from pan and set aside.
3. Add garlic and sun-dried tomatoes to the same skillet and cook for 1-2 minutes, or until fragrant.
4. Add cherry tomatoes to the skillet and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, or until they start to release their juices.
5. Combine cooked pasta, bacon, and tomato mixture in a large bowl. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Top with Parmesan cheese (if using) and serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Bacon Gouda Pasta Bake
A creamy, cheesy pasta bake infused with the rich flavors of crispy bacon and smooth Gouda cheese.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz. pasta (such as penne or fusilli)
– 6 slices of bacon, cooked and crumbled
– 1 cup grated Gouda cheese
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
3. In a large skillet, combine crumbled bacon, Gouda cheese, Parmesan cheese, parsley, garlic, and heavy cream. Stir until smooth.
4. Add cooked pasta to the skillet and toss until well coated with the cheesy mixture.
5. Transfer the pasta to a baking dish and top with additional grated Parmesan cheese.
6. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Bacon and Avocado Pasta Salad
A creamy and savory pasta salad that combines the richness of bacon with the freshness of avocado.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz pasta (bow-tie or penne work well)
– 6 slices of cooked bacon, crumbled
– 2 ripe avocados, diced
– 1/2 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 tbsp lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large bowl, combine cooked bacon, diced avocado, cherry tomatoes, and chopped parsley.
3. Add cooked pasta to the bowl and toss gently to combine.
4. Drizzle olive oil and lemon juice over the salad and season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes (includes cooking pasta)
Summary
Indulge in the rich flavors of bacon with these 18 creamy pasta recipes! From classic combinations like Creamy Garlic Bacon Pasta and Spicy Bacon Carbonara, to unique twists like Maple Bacon Mac and Cheese and Smoky Bacon Tomato Pasta, there’s something for everyone. Whether you’re in the mood for a comforting bake, a spicy kick, or a refreshing salad, these recipes will satisfy your cravings. So go ahead, get creative with bacon, and treat yourself to a culinary delight!