Pasta with Asparagus & Bacon

Pasta with Asparagus & Bacon is a delightful dish that brings together the flavors of crispy bacon, tender asparagus, and creamy pasta. It’s a comforting meal that’s perfect for any day of the week. Whether you’re cooking for yourself or hosting friends, this recipe is sure to please.

Why Make This Recipe

This recipe is not only delicious but also easy to prepare. It combines simple ingredients that you might already have in your kitchen, making it a hassle-free option for dinner. Plus, the addition of asparagus adds a fresh and vibrant touch to the plate. The crispy bacon gives every bite a fantastic crunch, making this dish a real treat!

How to Make Pasta with Asparagus & Bacon

Making Pasta with Asparagus & Bacon is straightforward. Here’s how you do it:

Ingredients:

8 oz penne pasta
1 tbsp butter
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 cup heavy cream
1/2 cup grated parmesan cheese
1/2 tsp black pepper
Salt, to taste
1 bunch asparagus, trimmed & cut into 2-inch pieces
4 slices bacon, cooked & crumbled

Directions:

Cook Pasta: Boil the penne pasta in a pot of salted water until it’s al dente. In the last 2 minutes of cooking, add the asparagus to the pot. Drain and set aside.
Make Sauce: In a skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until it becomes fragrant. Stir in the heavy cream, grated parmesan cheese, black pepper, and salt. Let it simmer until the sauce is slightly thickened.
Combine: Add the cooked pasta and asparagus to the sauce. Toss everything together until well coated in the creamy mixture.
Finish: Top the pasta with crumbled bacon and a sprinkle of extra black pepper. Serve warm.

How to Serve Pasta with Asparagus & Bacon

Serve Pasta with Asparagus & Bacon hot, straight from the stove. You can add a sprinkle of extra parmesan cheese on top for an extra cheesy touch. Pair it with a simple green salad or some garlic bread for a complete meal.

How to Store Pasta with Asparagus & Bacon

If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. This dish can be kept for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm it up in a skillet or microwave until heated through.

Tips to Make Pasta with Asparagus & Bacon

For a lighter version, use half-and-half instead of heavy cream.
You can add cherry tomatoes for a splash of color and extra flavor.
If you want a bit of heat, add red pepper flakes to the sauce.

Variation

You can easily switch up this recipe by using different types of pasta, like fettuccine or spaghetti. For a vegetarian option, simply omit the bacon or replace it with sautéed mushrooms for a savory alternative.

FAQs

Can I use frozen asparagus?
- Yes, frozen asparagus works well, but make sure to thaw and drain it before adding it to the dish.
What else can I use instead of bacon?
- You can use ham, pancetta, or even tofu for a meat-free option.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
- While it’s best served fresh, you can prepare the sauce and pasta separately, then combine them just before serving.

Enjoy making this simple yet delicious Pasta with Asparagus & Bacon! It’s sure to become a favorite in your household.