Spaghetti with bacon

Spaghetti with bacon combines crispy bacon, creamy sour cream, and toasted pine nuts for a rich and flavorful dish. This easy recipe offers a delightful twist on classic spaghetti, perfect for a weeknight dinner.

04 Jan 2026
Cook time 15 min
Prep time 5 min

Ingredients:

12 oz pasta
1/3 cup pine nuts
10 bacon strips
2 garlic cloves
1 cup sour cream
1/2 cup fresh parsley

Spaghetti with bacon is a delicate balance of rich flavors and textures. The crispy bacon, creamy sauce, and roasted pine nuts create a wonderful medley that will make your meal unforgettable. This dish is relatively easy to prepare and perfect for those looking to add a twist to their classic spaghetti.

Instructions:

1. Cook the Pasta:
- In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil.
- Add the pasta and cook according to the package instructions until al dente.
- Reserve 1/2 cup of pasta water, then drain the pasta and set aside.

2. Toast the Pine Nuts:
- While the pasta is cooking, heat a small skillet over medium heat.
- Add the pine nuts and toast them, stirring frequently, until golden brown and fragrant, about 3-5 minutes.
- Remove from heat and set aside.

3. Cook the Bacon:
- In a large skillet, cook the bacon strips over medium heat until crispy, about 10 minutes.
- Transfer the cooked bacon to a paper towel-lined plate to drain and cool.
- Once cooled, crumble the bacon into bite-sized pieces.

4. Sauté the Garlic:
- In the same skillet used for the bacon, leave about 1-2 tablespoons of bacon fat (discard the rest).
- Add the minced garlic to the skillet and sauté over medium heat until fragrant, about 1-2 minutes. Ensure that the garlic does not burn.

5. Combine Ingredients:
- Reduce the heat to low and add the sour cream to the skillet with the garlic. Stir to combine.
- Slowly add the reserved pasta water to the skillet, stirring until a smooth sauce forms.
- Add the cooked pasta to the skillet and toss to coat evenly with the sauce.
- Stir in the toasted pine nuts and crumbled bacon.

6. Serve:
- Remove the skillet from heat.
- Sprinkle the chopped fresh parsley over the pasta and toss gently to combine.
- Serve immediately while hot, with additional parsley for garnish if desired.

Enjoy your delicious Spaghetti with bacon, a savory dish that combines creamy, crunchy, and fresh elements into one satisfying meal. This easy-to-make recipe is perfect for a weeknight dinner or to impress guests during a weekend gathering. Pair it with a glass of your favorite white wine for an elevated dining experience.

Spaghetti with bacon FAQ:

How long should I cook the pasta for this recipe?

Cook the pasta according to the package instructions, usually around 8-12 minutes, until al dente. Remember to reserve 1/2 cup of pasta water before draining.

Can I use a different type of pasta besides spaghetti?

Yes, you can substitute spaghetti with other pasta types like fettuccine, linguine, or penne. Adjust the cooking time based on the type of pasta used.

What is the best way to store leftovers of this dish?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove or microwave, adding a splash of water or cream to maintain creaminess.

How do I know when the bacon is crispy enough?

Bacon is ready when it is golden brown and has a crisp texture, usually after about 10 minutes over medium heat. Keep an eye on it to avoid burning.

Can I make this dish lighter or healthier?

To make it lighter, consider using turkey bacon instead of regular bacon and low-fat sour cream. You can also add more vegetables like spinach or zucchini for extra nutrition.

Cooking Tips:

- Cook Pasta Al Dente: Ensure your pasta is cooked al dente (firm to the bite) for the best texture and to prevent it from becoming mushy when mixed with the sauce.

- Toast Pine Nuts: Toast the pine nuts in a dry pan over medium heat until golden brown and fragrant. This enhances their flavor and adds a delightful crunch to the dish.

- Crisp the Bacon: Cook the bacon strips until they are crispy. This not only adds a satisfying crunch but also allows you to use the rendered fat for frying the garlic, amplifying the dish's flavor.

- Use Fresh Garlic: Use fresh garlic rather than garlic powder for a more robust and aromatic flavor. Mince it finely so that it blends well with the sauce.

- Add Fresh Parsley Last: Add the chopped fresh parsley right at the end to retain its vibrant color and fresh taste. It adds a nice contrast to the rich flavors of the bacon and sour cream.

- Reserve Pasta Water: Keep a cup of pasta water before draining it. You can use this starchy water to adjust the consistency of the sauce and help it cling to the pasta better.

Nutrition Facts

4 Servings
Calories 820kcal
Protein 36g
Carbohydrates 70g
Fiber 3.50g
Sugar 4.78g
Fat 44g

Spaghetti with bacon