Bacon and Parmesan Penne Pasta: A Simple, Delicious Comfort Food Recipe

This Bacon and Parmesan Penne Pasta recipe is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. It’s quick, easy, and delivers a powerful flavor punch that will leave you craving more. The salty, smoky bacon perfectly complements the rich, nutty Parmesan cheese, creating a harmonious blend of flavors that coats every piece of penne pasta. This dish is perfect for a weeknight dinner, a potluck gathering, or simply when you need a comforting and satisfying meal. Get ready to experience pasta perfection!

Why This Bacon and Parmesan Penne Pasta Recipe Works

Several factors contribute to the irresistible appeal of this recipe:

* **Simplicity:** The ingredient list is short and sweet, featuring pantry staples and readily available ingredients. You won’t need to spend hours searching for exotic items.
* **Speed:** From start to finish, this dish can be on your table in under 30 minutes. It’s an ideal option when you’re short on time but still want a delicious and homemade meal.
* **Flavor Combination:** The marriage of bacon and Parmesan cheese is a classic for a reason. The salty, smoky bacon balances the sharp, savory Parmesan, creating a flavor profile that’s both satisfying and addictive.
* **Versatility:** This recipe is highly adaptable. You can easily add vegetables, herbs, or different types of cheese to customize it to your preferences.
* **Comfort Food:** This pasta dish embodies the essence of comfort food. It’s warm, hearty, and incredibly satisfying, providing a sense of well-being with every bite.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Here’s a breakdown of the ingredients you’ll need to create this delectable Bacon and Parmesan Penne Pasta:

* **Penne Pasta:** 1 pound (450g). Penne’s ridged surface and cylindrical shape make it perfect for capturing the flavorful sauce. Other pasta shapes like rigatoni, farfalle (bowties), or rotini would also work well.
* **Bacon:** 8 ounces (225g), preferably thick-cut. The type of bacon is a matter of personal preference. Regular bacon will provide a classic smoky flavor, while maple bacon will add a touch of sweetness. Pancetta, an Italian cured pork belly, can also be used for a more intense flavor.
* **Parmesan Cheese:** 1 cup (100g), freshly grated. Freshly grated Parmesan cheese is crucial for the best flavor and texture. Pre-shredded Parmesan often contains cellulose, which can prevent it from melting smoothly. Parmigiano-Reggiano is the highest quality Parmesan cheese and will provide the most authentic flavor, but a good quality domestic Parmesan will also work well.
* **Garlic:** 2 cloves, minced. Garlic adds a pungent and aromatic element to the dish. Freshly minced garlic is preferred, but garlic paste or granulated garlic can be used in a pinch. Adjust the amount of garlic to your liking.
* **Heavy Cream:** 1/2 cup (120ml). Heavy cream adds richness and creaminess to the sauce, helping to bind the ingredients together. Half-and-half or whole milk can be used as a substitute, but the sauce will be less rich.
* **Olive Oil:** 2 tablespoons. Olive oil is used to sauté the bacon and garlic. Extra virgin olive oil is recommended for its superior flavor, but regular olive oil will also work.
* **Salt:** To taste. Salt enhances the flavors of all the ingredients.
* **Black Pepper:** To taste, freshly ground. Freshly ground black pepper adds a subtle spice and aroma.
* **Optional Additions:** Fresh parsley (chopped, for garnish), red pepper flakes (for a touch of heat).

Equipment You’ll Need

* Large pot for boiling pasta
* Large skillet or sauté pan
* Colander for draining pasta
* Cheese grater
* Knife and cutting board
* Mixing spoon or spatula

Step-by-Step Instructions

Follow these detailed instructions to create your own batch of delicious Bacon and Parmesan Penne Pasta:

**Step 1: Cook the Bacon**

* Place the bacon slices in a large skillet or sauté pan over medium heat.
* Cook, turning occasionally, until the bacon is crispy and golden brown. This usually takes about 8-10 minutes.
* Remove the bacon from the skillet and place it on a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess grease.
* Once the bacon is cool enough to handle, crumble it into bite-sized pieces.
* Reserve about 2 tablespoons of bacon grease in the skillet. Discard the rest or save it for another use.

**Step 2: Cook the Pasta**

* While the bacon is cooking, bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil.
* Add the penne pasta to the boiling water and cook according to the package directions, until al dente. Al dente means “to the tooth” in Italian, indicating that the pasta should be firm to the bite.
* Reserve about 1 cup of pasta water before draining the pasta.
* Drain the pasta in a colander and set it aside.

**Step 3: Sauté the Garlic**

* Add the olive oil to the skillet with the reserved bacon grease.
* Heat the oil over medium heat.
* Add the minced garlic to the skillet and sauté for about 1 minute, or until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic, as it can become bitter.

**Step 4: Create the Sauce**

* Pour the heavy cream into the skillet with the garlic and oil.
* Bring the cream to a simmer over low heat.
* Add half of the grated Parmesan cheese to the skillet and stir until it is melted and smooth.
* Season the sauce with salt and pepper to taste. Remember that the bacon and Parmesan are already salty, so start with a small amount and add more as needed.

**Step 5: Combine Pasta and Sauce**

* Add the drained pasta to the skillet with the sauce.
* Toss to coat the pasta evenly with the sauce.
* If the sauce is too thick, add a little bit of the reserved pasta water to thin it out. Start with a few tablespoons and add more as needed until the desired consistency is reached.

**Step 6: Add Bacon and Parmesan**

* Add the crumbled bacon to the pasta and sauce.
* Toss to combine.
* Add the remaining Parmesan cheese to the pasta and toss again.

**Step 7: Serve and Garnish**

* Serve the Bacon and Parmesan Penne Pasta immediately.
* Garnish with fresh chopped parsley and red pepper flakes, if desired.

Tips for Perfect Bacon and Parmesan Penne Pasta

* **Don’t Overcook the Pasta:** Overcooked pasta will be mushy and unpleasant. Cook the pasta al dente for the best texture.
* **Use Freshly Grated Parmesan:** Freshly grated Parmesan cheese melts more smoothly and has a richer flavor than pre-shredded Parmesan.
* **Don’t Burn the Garlic:** Burnt garlic will make the sauce bitter. Sauté the garlic over low heat and watch it carefully.
* **Reserve Pasta Water:** Pasta water is starchy and helps to thicken the sauce and bind the ingredients together. Don’t skip this step!
* **Adjust Seasoning to Taste:** Season the sauce with salt and pepper to your liking. Remember that the bacon and Parmesan are already salty, so start with a small amount of salt and add more as needed.
* **Serve Immediately:** This pasta dish is best served immediately, while the sauce is still creamy and the pasta is hot.

Variations and Additions

This Bacon and Parmesan Penne Pasta recipe is a great base for experimentation. Here are some ideas for variations and additions:

* **Vegetables:** Add sautéed vegetables such as mushrooms, spinach, peas, or asparagus to the pasta for added nutrients and flavor.
* **Herbs:** Fresh herbs such as basil, oregano, or thyme can add a burst of flavor to the dish. Add the herbs towards the end of cooking to preserve their freshness.
* **Cheese:** Experiment with different types of cheese, such as Pecorino Romano, Asiago, or Gruyere.
* **Protein:** Add cooked chicken, shrimp, or sausage to the pasta for a heartier meal.
* **Spice:** Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the sauce for a touch of heat.
* **Lemon:** A squeeze of fresh lemon juice can brighten up the flavors of the dish.
* **Wine:** Add a splash of dry white wine to the sauce for added depth of flavor. Cook the wine down for a few minutes before adding the cream.

Serving Suggestions

This Bacon and Parmesan Penne Pasta is a versatile dish that can be served in a variety of ways:

* **Main Course:** Serve as a main course for a quick and easy weeknight dinner.
* **Side Dish:** Serve as a side dish alongside grilled chicken, fish, or steak.
* **Potluck Dish:** Bring this pasta dish to a potluck gathering. It’s sure to be a hit!
* **Lunch:** Pack leftovers for lunch the next day.

Storage Instructions

* **Refrigerate:** Store leftover Bacon and Parmesan Penne Pasta in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
* **Reheat:** Reheat the pasta in the microwave or in a skillet over low heat. Add a little bit of milk or cream to help rehydrate the sauce.
* **Freezing:** Freezing is not recommended, as the sauce may separate and the pasta may become mushy.

Nutritional Information (Approximate)

* Calories: 600-800 per serving (depending on portion size and ingredients used)
* Fat: 30-40 grams
* Protein: 25-35 grams
* Carbohydrates: 60-80 grams

**Note:** This is just an estimate. Actual nutritional values may vary.

Conclusion

Bacon and Parmesan Penne Pasta is a classic comfort food that’s easy to make and incredibly satisfying. With its simple ingredients and quick cooking time, it’s perfect for busy weeknights or any time you’re craving a delicious and comforting meal. So, gather your ingredients, follow the instructions, and get ready to enjoy a pasta dish that’s sure to become a family favorite!

Enjoy your Bacon and Parmesan Penne Pasta!