Save to Pinterest A rich and comforting pasta dish featuring silky garlic butter sauce, tossed with al dente pasta and finished with a golden, crispy bacon crumble for irresistible texture and flavor.
I remember making this garlic butter pasta for a weeknight dinner when I wanted a quick but satisfying meal. The crispy bacon crumble adds a special touch that makes this dish a family favorite every time we crave something a little indulgent.
Ingredients
- Pasta: 400 g (14 oz) spaghetti or linguine, 1 tablespoon salt (for pasta water)
- Bacon Crumble: 6 slices streaky bacon, chopped, 1 teaspoon olive oil
- Garlic Butter Sauce: 60 g (1/4 cup) unsalted butter, 4 large garlic cloves (finely minced), 1/2 teaspoon chili flakes (optional), 50 ml (1/4 cup) pasta cooking water, 30 g (1/4 cup) grated Parmesan cheese, Salt and freshly ground black pepper (to taste)
- Garnish: 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley, Extra grated Parmesan (to serve)
Instructions
- Cook Pasta:
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1/2 cup pasta water, then drain.
- Prepare Bacon Crumble:
- While pasta cooks, heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add chopped bacon and fry until crispy and golden, about 6–8 minutes. Transfer bacon to a plate lined with paper towels and set aside.
- Sauté Garlic:
- In the same skillet, lower the heat and add butter. Once melted, add minced garlic and chili flakes (if using). Sauté gently for 1–2 minutes until fragrant, but do not brown.
- Toss Pasta and Sauce:
- Add the drained pasta to the skillet and toss to coat in the garlic butter. Add 50 ml reserved pasta water and Parmesan, tossing until the sauce is silky and clings to the pasta. Season with salt and black pepper to taste.
- Serve:
- Serve immediately, topped with crispy bacon crumble, chopped parsley, and extra Parmesan.
Save to Pinterest Everyone at our table enjoys topping their pasta with extra bacon and cheese. It's a simple moment that always brings smiles and requests for seconds.
Required Tools
Large pot, Skillet or frying pan, Tongs, Colander, Chefs knife and chopping board
Nutritional Information
Calories: 560, Total Fat: 25 g, Carbohydrates: 62 g, Protein: 21 g (per serving)
Recipe Notes
For a vegetarian version, omit the bacon and substitute with crispy fried mushrooms or toasted breadcrumbs. Add a squeeze of lemon juice for brightness. Pair with a crisp Pinot Grigio or sparkling water with lemon.
Save to Pinterest This pasta comes together in just 30 minutes and brings cozy warmth to any meal. Enjoy with family or friends for a comforting treat.
Questions & Answers
- → How can I make the bacon crumble extra crispy?
Fry chopped bacon over medium heat without overcrowding the pan, allowing it to brown evenly and become golden and crisp before draining on paper towels.
- → What type of pasta works best with the garlic butter sauce?
Spaghetti or linguine are ideal as their long strands hold the silky garlic butter sauce well, creating a smooth, flavorful bite.
- → Can I adjust the spiciness in the dish?
Yes, the chili flakes are optional. Simply omit or reduce the amount to suit your preferred heat level without disrupting the garlic butter flavor.
- → What is the purpose of reserved pasta water in the sauce?
Reserved pasta water contains starch that helps emulsify the garlic butter and Parmesan, resulting in a silky, cohesive sauce that clings to the pasta.
- → Are there suitable vegetarian alternatives for the bacon crumble?
Yes, crispy fried mushrooms or toasted breadcrumbs can replace bacon to maintain a satisfying crunchy texture and savory flavor.