Introduction:
Indulge in the rich flavors of this Creamy Pasta with Asparagus and Bacon, a perfect blend of crispy bacon, tender asparagus, and luscious cream sauce. This dish combines simple ingredients to create a hearty meal that’s both comforting and satisfying.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe:
- Flavorful Combination: The smokiness of the bacon complements the freshness of the asparagus and the richness of the cream sauce.
- Quick and Easy: This recipe comes together quickly, making it ideal for a weeknight dinner.
- Versatile: Easily adaptable, you can substitute different types of pasta or vegetables to suit your taste.
Ingredients:
- 8 ounces (about 2 cups) of penne or your favorite pasta
- 8 slices of bacon, chopped
- 1 pound of fresh asparagus, tough ends trimmed and cut into bite-sized pieces
- 2 cloves of garlic, minced
- 1 cup of heavy cream
- 1/2 cup of grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup of chicken or vegetable broth
- 2 tablespoons of butter
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
Cook the Pasta:
- Boil a large pot of salted water and cook the pasta until al dente. Drain and set aside.
Cook the Bacon:
- In a skillet over medium-high heat, render the chopped bacon until crispy. Transfer to a paper towel-lined plate, leaving the drippings in the skillet.
Sauté the Asparagus:
- In the bacon drippings, sauté the asparagus pieces until they are tender but still have a bit of crunch.
Sauté the Garlic:
- Add the minced garlic to the skillet and cook until fragrant.
Make the Cream Sauce:
- Stir in the heavy cream, Parmesan cheese, broth, and butter into the skillet. Let the mixture simmer until it thickens slightly.
Combine and Finish:
- Add the cooked pasta, bacon, and asparagus back to the skillet. Toss everything together to coat with the cream sauce. Season with salt and black pepper.
Serve:
- Garnish with fresh parsley if desired and serve warm.
Storage:
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently, adding a little milk or cream if the sauce needs thinning.
Enjoy a deliciously creamy and satisfying meal that’s sure to become a new favorite!