Indulge in the ultimate comfort food with this rich and creamy bacon pasta, where crispy bacon meets a luscious Parmesan sauce for an irresistibly delicious bite!

Creamy Bacon Pasta is the perfect blend of indulgence and comfort, combining crispy bacon, rich Parmesan cheese, and a velvety cream sauce with tender fettuccine. The smoky, savory bacon pairs beautifully with the creamy texture, creating a dish that feels both luxurious and easy to make. With just a handful of simple ingredients, this recipe comes together quickly, making it an ideal choice for a weeknight dinner or a special meal without the fuss.

What makes this dish even better is its versatility—whether you keep it classic or add your own twist with fresh herbs, a squeeze of lemon, or even some sautéed mushrooms, it’s guaranteed to impress. The reserved pasta water helps create a smooth, restaurant-quality sauce that clings perfectly to every strand of pasta. Finished with crispy bacon bits and a sprinkle of fresh parsley, this dish is a crowd-pleaser that will have everyone coming back for seconds.

What You’ll Need to Make Creamy Bacon Pasta

Ingredients

fettuccine pasta
bacon
heavy cream
Parmesan cheese
minced garlic
salt and pepper to taste
fresh parsley or basil for garnish (optional)

How to Make Creamy Bacon Pasta

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the pasta according to package instructions. Reserve 1/2 cup of pasta water before draining.

In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the bacon until crispy.

Remove the bacon from the pan and set it aside on a paper towel-lined plate. Keep about 2 tablespoons of bacon grease in the skillet.

Once cooled, chop bacon into pieces.

Lower the heat to medium-low and add minced garlic to the skillet. Sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.

Stir in the heavy cream and cook for 3-4 minutes, allowing it to warm and slightly bubble.

Add Parmesan cheese and stir until melted and smooth.

Add the cooked pasta to the skillet, tossing to coat it in the creamy sauce. If the sauce is too thick, gradually add reserved pasta water until it reaches your desired consistency.

Stir the crispy bacon back into the pasta. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Sprinkle with chopped parsley for garnish if desired.

Top Tips for Making Creamy Bacon Pasta

Cook Pasta Al Dente – Since the pasta will continue to cook slightly when tossed in the sauce, avoid overcooking it in the boiling water.
Use Freshly Grated Parmesan – Pre-grated cheese often contains anti-caking agents that prevent smooth melting. Freshly grated Parmesan will create a silkier sauce.
Adjust Sauce Thickness – If the sauce thickens too much, add more reserved pasta water a little at a time. If it’s too thin, let it simmer a bit longer to thicken up.
Crispier Bacon – Cook bacon over medium heat to render out the fat slowly. For extra crispy pieces, remove them when slightly underdone and let them crisp up on the paper towel.
Don’t Let Garlic Burn – Garlic can become bitter if overcooked. Stir frequently and add it just before the cream to avoid burning.

Optional Additions:

Add a Touch of Lemon – A squeeze of lemon juice at the end brightens up the richness of the dish.
Boost Umami – A pinch of red pepper flakes, smoked paprika, or even a dash of Worcestershire sauce can add depth.
More Protein Options – Add cooked chicken, shrimp, or even mushrooms for a heartier meal.
Herbs for Freshness – Fresh basil, thyme, or chives can add a fresh, aromatic touch.
Extra Creaminess – Stir in a small pat of butter or an extra splash of cream at the end for a more velvety sauce.

More Recipes Featuring Bacon You’ll Love