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Creamy Spinach Pasta Alfredo with Bacon

Elina James
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 35 minutes
Course Pasta
Cuisine Italian
Servings 4 servings
Calories 300 kcal

Ingredients
  

  • 12 oz (340 g) fettuccine, penne, or linguine
  • 6–8 slices bacon, chopped
  • 3 cups fresh spinach, loosely packed
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 3 tbsp butter
  • 1/2 cup pasta water (reserved from cooking)
  • Salt and black pepper, to taste
  • 1/2 tsp Italian seasoning (optional)
  • Fresh parsley, for garnish

Instructions
 

  • Step 1: Cook the Pasta : Boil a large pot of salted water and cook pasta until al dente. Reserve 1/2 cup pasta water and drain.
  • Step 2: Cook the Bacon : In a large skillet over medium heat, cook chopped bacon until crispy. Remove bacon and place on paper towels to drain. Leave about 1 tablespoon of bacon fat in the skillet for added flavor.
  • Step 3: Sauté the Garlic : Add butter to the skillet. Once melted, add minced garlic and sauté for 1 minute until fragrant.
  • Step 4: Make the Alfredo Sauce : Pour in the heavy cream and stir. Lower heat to medium and add Parmesan cheese. Mix until melted and creamy. Season with salt, black pepper, and Italian seasoning.
  • Step 5: Add Spinach : Add fresh spinach and stir until wilted and blended into the sauce.
  • Step 6: Combine Pasta and Bacon : Add cooked pasta and toss to coat evenly in the sauce. If needed, pour in some reserved pasta water for a silkier texture. Add crispy bacon and mix gently.
  • Step 7: Finish and Serve : Taste and adjust seasoning. Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley and extra Parmesan.