Fettuccine with tomatoes, bacon and creamy parmesan sauce

Fettuccine with tomatoes, bacon, and creamy parmesan sauce features a rich blend of salty bacon and creamy parmesan, enhanced by fresh tomatoes and parsley. It's a comforting dish perfect for an impressive dinner.

11 Jan 2026
Cook time 15 min
Prep time 5 min

Ingredients:

1/2 cup fresh parsley
1/2 cup heavy whipping cream
3 cans canned tomatoes
3 garlic cloves
1/2 cup grated parmesan cheese
16 oz whole-wheat pasta
6 strips bacon
3 tbsp olive oil

Fettuccine with tomatoes, bacon, and creamy parmesan sauce is a delightful dish that combines the rich flavors of salty prosciutto, savory bacon, and creamy parmesan, perfectly balanced by the freshness of tomatoes and parsley. This recipe is perfect for a comforting dinner that's sure to impress family and friends.

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Ingredients:
- Chop the parsley and set aside.
- Mince the garlic cloves.
- Open the canned tomatoes and drain any excess liquid if necessary.
- Grate the parmesan cheese if not already grated.
- Chop the bacon into small pieces.

2. Cook the Bacon:
- In a large skillet, add the chopped bacon over medium heat.
- Cook until crispy, stirring occasionally. This should take about 5-7 minutes.
- Once cooked, remove the bacon from the skillet and place it on a paper towel-lined plate to drain the excess fat.

3. Cook the Pasta:
- While the bacon is cooking, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
- Add the whole-wheat fettuccine and cook according to the package instructions until al dente.
- Reserve 1 cup of pasta water, then drain the pasta and set aside.

4. Prepare the Sauce:
- In the same skillet used for the bacon, add the olive oil over medium heat.
- Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1-2 minutes until fragrant, being careful not to burn it.
- Add the canned tomatoes to the skillet. Simmer for about 10 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Pour in the heavy whipping cream, stirring until well combined.
- Cook the mixture for another 5 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.

5. Combine Pasta and Sauce:
- Add the cooked fettuccine to the skillet with the sauce. Toss to coat the pasta evenly with the sauce.
- If the sauce is too thick, gradually add the reserved pasta water until desired consistency is achieved.

6. Add Cheese and Bacon:
- Stir in the grated parmesan cheese until melted and well combined.
- Add the crispy bacon pieces back into the skillet.

7. Finish and Serve:
- Add the chopped fresh parsley to the skillet and gently toss everything together.
- Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper if needed.

8. Serve Immediately:
- Transfer the pasta to serving plates and garnish with extra parmesan cheese and parsley if desired.

This Fettuccine with tomatoes, bacon, and creamy parmesan sauce makes for a luxurious and satisfying meal. The combination of textures and flavors creates a real treat for the taste buds. Enjoy your culinary creation with a side of garlic bread and a fresh green salad for a complete meal.

Fettuccine with tomatoes, bacon and creamy parmesan sauce FAQ:

What is the recommended cooking time for the fettuccine?

Cook the whole-wheat fettuccine according to the package instructions until al dente. This usually takes about 8-10 minutes, but it's best to check the package for precise timing.

How can I tell if the bacon is cooked properly?

The bacon should be crispy and golden brown. Cooking usually takes about 5-7 minutes over medium heat. Make sure to stir occasionally for even cooking.

Can I store leftovers, and if so, how?

Yes, you can store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, add a splash of water or cream to help regain the creamy texture.

What can I use as a substitute for heavy whipping cream?

You can substitute heavy whipping cream with half-and-half or a dairy-free alternative such as coconut cream. Note that this may slightly alter the flavor and creaminess.

What size pan works best for this recipe?

A large skillet (around 12 inches) is ideal for this recipe, as it allows enough space to cook the bacon and combine the sauce and pasta without overcrowding.

Tips:

- To prevent the pasta from sticking together, make sure to stir it occasionally while it cooks.

- Use freshly grated parmesan cheese for the best flavor and to ensure it melts smoothly into the sauce.

- If you prefer a spicier dish, add a pinch of red pepper flakes while cooking the garlic for a little heat.

- Reserve some pasta water before draining the fettuccine. You can use it to thin the sauce if it becomes too thick.

- For added flavor, try sautéing the prosciutto and bacon until crispy before combining them with the other ingredients.

Nutrition per serving

6 Servings
Calories 270kcal
Protein 11g
Carbohydrates 30g
Fiber 4.96g
Sugar 3.63g
Fat 20g

Fettuccine with tomatoes, bacon and creamy parmesan sauce