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Creamy Spaghetti with Mushrooms and Bacon: A Comforting, Flavor-Packed Meal
When you’re craving a cozy, indulgent meal that’s both savory and satisfying, Creamy Spaghetti with Mushrooms and Bacon is the perfect dish to prepare. This rich and flavorful pasta combines the earthy goodness of mushrooms, the salty crispiness of bacon, and a creamy sauce that ties everything together. Whether it’s for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion, this recipe is sure to impress!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Rich and Creamy: The creamy sauce made with heavy cream and Parmesan cheese is indulgent and comforting, creating a luscious coating for the spaghetti.
- Bacon Adds Crunch and Flavor: Crispy bacon provides a savory contrast to the creamy sauce and mushrooms, making every bite a delight.
- Simple Ingredients: With just a few key ingredients, this dish is quick and easy to make—perfect for busy days or when you’re craving something special without the fuss.
- Perfectly Balanced: The mushrooms bring an earthy depth of flavor, while the bacon provides saltiness and crunch, balancing beautifully with the creamy sauce.
Ingredients for Creamy Spaghetti with Mushrooms and Bacon
Here’s what you’ll need to create this rich, comforting pasta dish:
Ingredients:
- 8 oz spaghetti (or your favorite pasta)
- 4 slices of bacon, chopped
- 1 cup mushrooms, sliced (button mushrooms or cremini work well)
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup Parmesan cheese, freshly grated
- 1/4 teaspoon dried thyme (optional, for added flavor)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil (or butter for a richer flavor)
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish, optional)
Instructions: How to Make Creamy Spaghetti with Mushrooms and Bacon
1. Cook the Spaghetti
Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the spaghetti according to the package instructions, typically for about 8-10 minutes, until al dente. Once done, drain the pasta, reserving a little pasta water in case you need to thin the sauce later. Set the cooked spaghetti aside.
2. Cook the Bacon
While the pasta is cooking, heat a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped bacon and cook until crispy, about 5-7 minutes. The bacon will release its fat and become nice and crispy. Once done, transfer the bacon to a paper towel-lined plate to drain any excess grease. Leave the bacon drippings in the skillet for added flavor.
3. Sauté the Mushrooms and Garlic
In the same skillet, add olive oil (or butter) to the bacon drippings and heat over medium heat. Add the sliced mushrooms and cook until they begin to soften and release their moisture, about 5 minutes. Stir occasionally to ensure even cooking.
Once the mushrooms are tender, add the minced garlic and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes, until fragrant. You can also sprinkle in dried thyme at this stage if you’d like to enhance the flavor.
4. Make the Creamy Sauce
Now, it’s time to make the creamy sauce! Lower the heat to medium-low and pour in the heavy cream. Stir well to combine, making sure the mushrooms and garlic are fully incorporated. Let the cream heat through, simmering gently for 3-4 minutes until it starts to thicken slightly.
Add the Parmesan cheese to the cream mixture and stir until melted and smooth. The cheese will give the sauce a rich, velvety texture. Season with salt and pepper to taste. If the sauce is too thick, you can add a little reserved pasta water to reach your desired consistency.
5. Combine the Pasta and Sauce
Add the cooked spaghetti to the skillet with the creamy mushroom and bacon sauce. Toss the pasta in the sauce, ensuring the noodles are evenly coated. You may need to use tongs or a pasta spoon to gently toss and mix everything together. If the sauce is too thick, add a bit more pasta water to loosen it up.
