# What You'll Need:
→ Pasta
01 - 14 oz spaghetti or linguine
02 - 1 tablespoon salt (for pasta water)
→ Bacon Crumble
03 - 6 slices streaky bacon, chopped
04 - 1 teaspoon olive oil
→ Garlic Butter Sauce
05 - 1/4 cup unsalted butter
06 - 4 large garlic cloves, finely minced
07 - 1/2 teaspoon chili flakes (optional)
08 - 1/4 cup reserved pasta cooking water
09 - 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
10 - Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
→ Garnish
11 - 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
12 - Extra grated Parmesan, to serve
# How to Make It:
01 - Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1/2 cup of pasta water, then drain thoroughly.
02 - Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add chopped bacon and fry for 6 to 8 minutes until crispy and golden. Transfer bacon to a paper towel-lined plate and set aside.
03 - Using the same skillet, reduce heat and melt butter. Stir in minced garlic and optional chili flakes, gently sautéing for 1 to 2 minutes until fragrant without browning.
04 - Add the drained pasta into the skillet and toss to coat evenly with the garlic butter. Incorporate reserved pasta water and Parmesan cheese, mixing until the sauce becomes silky and clings to the pasta. Season with salt and black pepper to taste.
05 - Plate the pasta and top with crispy bacon crumble, chopped parsley, and additional Parmesan as desired. Serve immediately.
