Bacon Cream Cheese Pasta

Name: Bacon Cream Cheese Pasta
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Ingredients: 8 oz Pasta (Any variety you prefer); 6 slices Bacon (Cooked and crumbled); 4 oz Cream Cheese (Softened); 0.5 cup Milk; 0.25 tsp Black Pepper (Freshly ground); 0.5 cup Parmesan Cheese (Grated)

Jump to Recipe Print Recipe

Okay, friends, let’s talk about comfort food. Specifically, let’s talk about something that’s just…chef’s kiss. I’m talking about a pasta dish so rich, so satisfying, and so surprisingly easy that it’ll become a weeknight staple: Bacon Cream Cheese Pasta. Think of it as the adult version of mac and cheese, but with a smoky, savory kick that’ll have everyone scraping their plates clean. It’s that good. I remember the first time I made this; my husband looked at me like I was some kind of culinary genius. Spoiler alert: I’m not. This recipe just *makes* you look like one. And the best part? It features our star of the show: Bacon Cream Cheese Pasta. Baccone cream. Get ready, you are going to love it!

What is Bacon Cream Cheese Pasta?

Simply put, Bacon Cream Cheese Pasta is a symphony of flavors and textures all swirled together in a comforting bowl. Imagine perfectly cooked pasta (your choice – penne, rotini, even spaghetti works!) coated in a luscious sauce made from cream cheese, crispy bacon, and a touch of garlic. It’s essentially a creamy carbonara without the fuss. The cream cheese melts into a velvety smooth blanket that clings to every noodle, while the bacon adds a salty, smoky depth that’s totally addictive. It’s not overly complicated, which is exactly what you need on a busy night, right? It’s definitely not health food, but sometimes you just need a dish that’s pure indulgence.

Why you will love this recipe?

What I love about this book?Bacon Cream Cheese Pasta. Bacón cheese Past is how quickly it comes together. Seriously, you can have dinner on the table in under 30 minutes. That’s a lifesaver on those nights when you’re staring into the fridge wondering what to make.

Flavor Explosion: The combination of creamy, salty, and smoky is just heavenly. The cream cheese provides a tangy base, while the bacon adds a satisfying crunch and a depth of flavor that’s just irresistible. A little garlic enhances it all!
So Easy, It’s Almost Illegal: Seriously, this recipe is foolproof. If you can boil pasta and cook bacon, you can make this. There’s no complicated sauce-making, no fussy techniques. It’s all about simple ingredients and straightforward steps.
Budget-Friendly Bliss: Bacon and cream cheese might seem a bit decadent, but a little goes a long way. Plus, pasta is always a budget-friendly option. You probably already have most of the ingredients in your pantry.
Totally Customizable: Want to add some veggies? Go for it! Mushrooms, spinach, peas – they all work beautifully. Need to lighten it up a bit? Use Neufchâtel cheese instead of full-fat cream cheese. The possibilities are endless! You could even add a touch of red pepper flakes for a kick.

It reminds me a bit of a creamy Alfredo, but with a lot more personality. Trust me; this will become a regular in your dinner rotation.

How do I make Bacon Cream Cheese Pasta?

Quick Overview

This Bacon Cream Cheese Pasta: Can you make thisWhat are some of the best pasta recipes? What is a good cream cheese sauce? What do you do when you combine everything together and voila! Dinner is served. What is the beauty of this recipe is that it’s super adaptable, so feel free to adjust the ingredients to your liking. What’s the best way to use bacon fat?

Ingredients

What is Bacon Cream Cheese Pasta?

Pasta:1 pound of your favorite pasta shape. Penne, rotini, or spaghetti all work well. I love rigatoni because it’s so good! How do you salt pasta water?
Bacon: 8 ounces of good-quality bacon, chopped. I prefer thick-cut bacon for extra flavor and crispy texture. But hey, use what you like.

Cream Cheese:8 ounces of cream cheese, softened. This is key! Softened cream cheese will blend into the sauce much more easily. I usually leave it out on the counter for about an hour before I start cooking. Can you use reduced fat or full fat?
Garlic:Garlic adds a wonderful aromatic flavor to the sauce. I used 2 cloves of garlic, minced. If you’re not a fan of garlic, you can skip it, but I highly recommend it!
Milk:1/2 cup of milk. This helps to thin out the cream cheese sauce and make it nice and creamy. Is it safe to use whole milk, 2% milk or almond milk?
What is Parmesan1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese. This adds a salty, savory note to the sauce. What is the best way to use freshly grated Parmesan?
Salt and pepper: What are some ofDon’t be afraid to season generously!
Fresh Parsley: Chopped, for garnish (optional). A sprinkle of fresh parsley adds a pop of color and freshness.

What are the step-

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

Bring salted water to a boil. Drain. Add the pasta and cook according to package directions until al dente. Add salt and pepper to taste. Don’t skip this step! Reserve 1/2 cup pasta water before draining. The pasta water is full of starch and will help to thicken the sauce and make it stick to the pasta.

Step 2: Cook the Bacon

While pasta is cooking, cook the bacon in a large skillet over medium heat until crispy. With a slotted spoon, remove the bacon from the skillet and set aside on an oiled plate lined with paper. How do you drain towels? Why don’t you leave the bacon fat in the skillet?

Step 3: Make the Cream Cheese Sauce

Reduce the heat to low and add the minced garlic to the skillet with the bacon fat. Cook for about 30 seconds, or until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic! Add the softened Cream Cheese and milk to the skillet. Stir until the cream cheese is melted and the sauce is smooth. Stir in the Parmesan cheese, salt, and pepper. Taste and adjust the seasonings as needed. If the sauce is too thick, add a little more milk or some of the reserved pasta water.

Step 4: Combine Everything

Add the cooked pasta and crispy bacon to the skillet with the Cream Cheese sauce. Toss to coat. If the sauce is too thick, add a little more pasta water until it reaches your desired consistency. What is the desired consistency Make sure every strand of pasta is coated in that delicious sauce!

Step 5: Serve

Serve immediately, garnished with fresh parsley (if desired). Why not add some Parmesan cheese?

What should I serve it with?

This Pasta with Bacon Cream Cheese Bactons.Is a satisfying meal on its own?

What’s a good weeknight dinner? A simple green salad or some steamed broccoli adds a healthy balance to the richness of the pasta. I also love serving it with some Crusty Bread for soaking up all that delicious sauce.

For a Special Occasion:What are some good side dishes to serve with grilled chicken or shrimp? What are some good side dishes to serve with a roasted Pork Loin?

For a Potluck:What are the best ways to make pasta at potlucks? Is it safe to cook it in a slow cooker?

What is the best dish to serve with this dish? What are some of the best recipes for a tomato sauce? What are the best foods for picky eaters?

What are some tips for perfecting Bacon Cream Cheese Pasta?

How do I take my own life?Bacon Cream Cheese Pasta – What are someWhat are some of the best tips and tricks I have learned over the years?

Bacon Perfection:For the crispiest bacon, cook it over medium heat and don’t overcrowd the skillet. How do I save bacon fat?

What are some of the best cream cheese Make sure your cream cheese is softened before you start cooking. This will ensure that it melts smoothly into the sauce. If you forget to take it out of the fridge ahead of time, you can microwave it for a few seconds until it’s softened.

Sauce Consistency: If your sauce is too thick, add a little more milk or pasta water until it reaches your desired consistency. If it’s too thin, simmer it for a few minutes to allow it to thicken up. You could also add a tablespoon of cornstarch to a little cold water, then whisk it into the sauce to thicken it.

Spice It Up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the sauce for a little heat. You could also add some chopped sun-dried tomatoes for a burst of flavor. And a sprinkle of black pepper always adds a nice touch.

Veggie Boost: Add some sautéed mushrooms, spinach, or peas to the pasta for a boost of nutrients. You could also add some roasted vegetables, like broccoli or cauliflower.

Cheese Please: Experiment with different types of cheese! Gouda, Gruyere, or even a little bit of blue cheese would be delicious in this pasta. Just be careful not to add too much, as some cheeses can be overpowering.

I even tried adding a little bit of pesto once, and it was amazing! Don’t be afraid to get creative and experiment with different flavors and ingredients.

Storing and Reheating Tips

Got leftovers? Here’s how to store and reheat your Bacon Cream Cheese Pasta:

Refrigerator Storage: Store leftover pasta in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. It’s best to store it as soon as it has cooled down to prevent bacterial growth.

Freezer Instructions: While you *can* freeze this pasta, I don’t recommend it. The cream cheese sauce can become a bit grainy and separate when thawed. However, if you must freeze it, store it in an airtight container for up to 2 months. Thaw it in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.

Reheating: Reheat the pasta in the microwave or on the stovetop. If reheating in the microwave, add a splash of milk or water to prevent it from drying out. If reheating on the stovetop, add a little bit of milk or cream and stir until heated through. You might need to add a little more cheese to freshen up the flavor.

I usually add a pat of butter when reheating on the stovetop – it makes it extra creamy!

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make this gluten-free?

Yes, you can easily make this recipe gluten-free by using gluten-free pasta. There are many great gluten-free pasta options available these days. Just make sure to cook it according to the package directions, as gluten-free pasta can sometimes be a bit more delicate than regular pasta.

Can I use turkey bacon instead of regular bacon?

Absolutely! Turkey bacon is a great alternative to regular bacon if you’re looking to reduce the fat content. Just keep in mind that it may not get quite as crispy as regular bacon, but it will still add a delicious smoky flavor to the pasta.

Can I add vegetables to this pasta?

Yes, definitely! This pasta is very versatile and you can add just about any vegetable you like. Some good options include sautéed mushrooms, spinach, peas, broccoli, and sun-dried tomatoes.

Can I make this ahead of time?

You can cook the pasta and bacon ahead of time, but I recommend making the cream cheese sauce just before serving. The sauce can thicken up and become a bit gloppy if it sits for too long.

What can I use instead of Parmesan cheese?

If you don’t have Parmesan cheese on hand, you can use Romano cheese or Asiago cheese as a substitute. They both have a similar salty, savory flavor.

Final Thoughts

So, there you have it: my go-to recipe for creamy, dreamy Bacon Cream Cheese Pasta. It’s quick, easy, and always a crowd-pleaser. I guarantee it’ll become a regular in your dinner rotation. If you’re craving some cheesy comfort, this dish really hits the spot. Try it out and let me know what you think in the comments below! I can’t wait to hear how yours turns out! Happy cooking!

No ratings yet