Creamy Bacon Pasta Recipe
Ingredients:
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 onion, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 3½ cups milk
- 10.5 oz can cream of chicken soup
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 lb uncooked spaghetti
- 1 cup grated mozzarella cheese
- 1 cup grated cheddar cheese
- ¾ cup cooked and crumbled bacon
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
Instructions:
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Cook the spaghetti according to package instructions until al dente. Once cooked, rinse the pasta under cold water and drain well.
- Sauté the onion and garlic: In a large pot over medium-high heat, heat the olive oil. Add the chopped onion and cook until it softens, about 3-4 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for 1 more minute, until fragrant.
- Make the creamy sauce: Reduce the heat to low, then add the milk, cream cheese, cream of chicken soup, salt, and pepper. Stir frequently until the cream cheese is fully melted and the sauce is smooth.
- Combine with spaghetti: Toss the cooked spaghetti into the sauce, ensuring the pasta is evenly coated. Transfer the mixture to a baking dish.
- Add cheese and bacon: Sprinkle the mozzarella, cheddar, and crumbled bacon evenly over the top.
- Bake: Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake for 20 minutes. After 20 minutes, remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes. For a golden finish, broil for the last 5 minutes, but keep a close eye to avoid burning.
- Serve: Remove the dish from the oven and let it sit for a couple of minutes. Garnish with fresh parsley and serve warm.
Storage:
- Refrigerate: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
- Freeze: To freeze, place in an airtight freezer-safe container for up to 3 months.
- Reheat: Warm individual servings in the microwave for 45 to 60 seconds.
Tips:
- Soften the cream cheese to room temperature for easy melting into the sauce.
- Whole milk creates a richer, thicker sauce, but 2% milk can be used if you prefer a lighter consistency.
- Cook and crumble the bacon in advance—fry, bake, or grill it, whichever method you prefer.