Indulge in the ultimate comfort food experience with this delectable Creamy Pasta with Asparagus and Bacon recipe. This delightful dish combines the rich and velvety texture of creamy sauce with the fresh and vibrant flavors of asparagus, all topped off with the irresistible smokiness of crispy bacon. Each bite is a harmonious blend of creamy, savory, and slightly sweet notes that will leave your taste buds singing with joy. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner or a special treat for a gathering, this creamy pasta recipe is sure to become a new favorite in your culinary repertoire.
As the sauce envelops each strand of pasta, creating a luscious and comforting coating, the tender-crisp asparagus adds a burst of color and freshness that elevates the dish to a whole new level. The marriage of creaminess, earthy greens, and the salty crunch of bacon creates a symphony of flavors that dance on your palate.
Moreover, this Creamy Pasta with Asparagus and Bacon recipe is incredibly versatile, allowing for easy customization to suit your taste preferences. You can opt for different pasta shapes, adjust the level of creaminess, or even add a sprinkle of your favorite herbs for an extra layer of aromatic goodness.
Beyond its mouthwatering taste, this dish is a celebration of seasonal produce, bringing the best of springtime to your table. The combination of asparagus and bacon is not only delicious but also a perfect embodiment of the changing seasons.
With its straightforward preparation and minimal ingredients, this recipe is an ideal choice for busy weeknights, yet it’s sophisticated enough to impress guests at any gathering. It’s the kind of dish that elicits satisfied smiles and requests for seconds, making every mealtime a delightful experience.
So, let’s dive into the goodness of this Creamy Pasta with Asparagus and Bacon, and savor the comforting and delicious flavors it has to offer. Whether you’re cooking for yourself, your family, or your guests, this recipe promises to be a delightful journey of flavors and a true celebration of comfort and culinary delight.
Ingredients
8 slices bacon – chopped
8 oz. Baby-Bella mushrooms – sliced
4 cups low-sodium chicken broth
3 cups milk, divided (2 cups and 1 cup)
12 oz. Farfalle pasta (Bowtie pasta)
1 lb. asparagus – trim the tough ends and cut into 1-inch pieces
Salt and pepper to taste
4 oz. cream cheese – softened
2 Tbsp. all-purpose flour
½ cup Parmesan cheese – shredded or freshly grated
Directions
Cook the pasta about 3 minutes less than the lowest minutes given on the package – not yet al dente. Drain the pasta, rinse, and set aside.
In a 12-inch nonstick skillet or a cast iron skillet (my favorite), cook the bacon until crispy.
Transfer the bacon to a paper towel-lined plate. Pour the bacon grease into a bowl – do not discard because you will need some later.
Using the same pan from the bacon, heat to medium heat, add the mushrooms, and season lightly with salt and pepper.
Cook the mushrooms until browned and the liquid is mostly evaporated – 4 to 5 minutes. Transfer to the same plate as bacon.
In a larger pot, add the broth, 2 cups of milk, the pasta, ½ tsp. salt and ¼ tsp. pepper.
Bring the mixture to a vigorous simmer and cook for about 8-9 minutes, stirring occasionally and moderating the heat so the mixture simmers but doesn’t stick to the bottom of the pot.
Stir in the asparagus and cook for another 4 to 5 minutes – until the asparagus is tender and the pasta is al dente but still slightly firm (it will continue to cook). There will be a bit of liquid left; that is how it should be as it will help make the creamy sauce in the next step.
In a blender, combine 1 cup of milk, cream cheese, and flour and blend until completely smooth.
Slowly add the mixture to the pot while stirring quickly to combine. Simmer for a couple of minutes until the sauce has thickened.
Remove the pot from the heat. Reserve a bit of bacon for a garnish and stir the rest of the bacon with the mushrooms into the sauce.
Stir in the Parmesan cheese.
Plate the pasta and garnish with bacon and more Parmesan cheese, if desired.
Conclusion:
Creamy Pasta with Asparagus and Bacon is a culinary delight that effortlessly combines comfort and sophistication on a single plate. The creamy sauce envelops the pasta in velvety goodness, while the tender-crisp asparagus adds a burst of freshness. The smoky and salty notes from the crispy bacon elevate the dish to new heights of flavor, creating a harmonious symphony of tastes that leaves taste buds craving more.
This recipe’s versatility makes it a go-to option for any occasion, whether it’s a quick weeknight dinner or a special gathering with loved ones. The ease of customization allows you to tailor the dish to your liking, ensuring a delightful experience every time.
Not only is this Creamy Pasta with Asparagus and Bacon a treat for the taste buds, but it also celebrates the seasonal goodness of asparagus, making it a perfect choice for springtime gatherings.
As each bite transports you to a world of creamy indulgence and delightful smokiness, this dish brings a smile to the faces of all who enjoy it. It’s a dish that evokes feelings of warmth, comfort, and contentment.
So, whether you’re cooking for yourself or your guests, this recipe promises to be a delightful journey of flavors that leaves a lasting impression. Embrace the goodness of this Creamy Pasta with Asparagus and Bacon, and savor the pleasure it brings to your palate and the joy it brings to your dining table.