If you’re looking for a delicious, creamy, and comforting pasta dish that’s packed with flavor, this Creamy Garlic Mushroom and Bacon Pasta is the perfect recipe for you. It’s rich, indulgent, and easy to make in under 30 minutes—making it ideal for busy weeknights or a cozy weekend meal. With crispy bacon, tender mushrooms, and a luscious garlic cream sauce, this dish will quickly become a family favorite!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
✔️ Quick & Easy – This dish comes together in just 30 minutes, making it perfect for a hassle-free meal.
✔️ Incredibly Flavorful – The combination of smoky bacon, earthy mushrooms, and garlicky cream sauce creates an irresistible taste.
✔️ Restaurant-Quality at Home – Skip the takeout and enjoy a gourmet-style pasta dish right from your kitchen.
✔️ Comfort Food at Its Best – Creamy, cheesy, and loaded with savory goodness, this pasta is pure comfort in a bowl!
Ingredients You’ll Need
To make this creamy garlic mushroom and bacon pasta, gather the following ingredients:
For the Pasta:
• 12 oz (340g) pasta (fettuccine, spaghetti, or penne work well)
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 6 slices of bacon, chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 8 oz (225g) mushrooms, sliced (button, cremini, or portobello)
• 1 cup heavy cream
• ½ cup whole milk (or an extra ½ cup of cream for a richer sauce)
• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
• ½ teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for a little heat)
• ½ teaspoon dried Italian seasoning
• Fresh parsley or basil for garnish
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
2. Cook the pasta according to the package instructions until al dente.
3. Drain and set aside, reserving ½ cup of pasta water for later.
Step 2: Prepare the Bacon and Mushrooms
1. Heat a large skillet over medium heat. Add olive oil and cook the bacon pieces until they’re crispy.
2. Remove the bacon and place it on a plate lined with paper towels. Leave about 1-2 tablespoons of bacon grease in the pan.
3. In the same skillet, add the sliced mushrooms and cook for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they release their moisture and become golden brown.
Step 3: Make the Creamy Garlic Sauce
1. Add the minced garlic to the skillet with the mushrooms and sauté for about 30 seconds, until fragrant.
2. Pour in the heavy cream and milk, stirring to combine.
3. Stir in the Parmesan cheese, salt, black pepper, Italian seasoning, and red pepper flakes (if using).
4. Let the sauce simmer for 3-4 minutes, until it thickens slightly.
Step 4: Combine Everything
1. Add the cooked pasta and crispy bacon back into the skillet, tossing everything together.
2. If the sauce is too thick, add a little reserved pasta water to loosen it up.
3. Let the pasta cook for another minute, ensuring it’s well coated in the creamy sauce.
Step 5: Serve and Enjoy!
1. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley or basil.
2. Sprinkle extra Parmesan cheese on top for an added cheesy touch.
3. Serve immediately while warm and creamy!
Serving Suggestions
Wondering what to pair with your creamy garlic mushroom and bacon pasta? Here are a few ideas:
• Garlic Bread – A warm, crusty slice of garlic bread is the perfect companion to soak up the delicious sauce.
• Side Salad – A fresh green salad with balsamic vinaigrette or Caesar dressing adds a refreshing contrast to the rich pasta.
• Roasted Vegetables – Roasted asparagus, Brussels sprouts, or zucchini complement the creamy flavors beautifully.
• White Wine Pairing – A crisp Chardonnay or Pinot Grigio enhances the creamy texture of the dish.
Storage and Reheating Tips
If you have leftovers, here’s how to store and reheat them properly:
Storing:
• Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Avoid freezing, as the cream-based sauce may separate when thawed.
Reheating:
• Reheat on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of milk or cream to restore the creamy texture.
• If using a microwave, heat in 30-second intervals, stirring between each, to prevent the sauce from drying out.
Final Thoughts
This Creamy Garlic Mushroom and Bacon Pasta is a dish that delivers big flavors with minimal effort. Whether you’re making it for a weeknight dinner, a special occasion, or meal prepping for the next day, it’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. The rich, creamy sauce combined with crispy bacon and tender mushrooms creates a dish that feels luxurious yet easy to make.
Give it a try, and let me know how it turns out for you! Happy cooking!
