Creamy Bacon Pasta Bake 🥓🧀🍝
A rich, indulgent, and cheesy comfort meal, this bacon cream cheese pasta is packed with crispy bacon, creamy sauce, and melty cheese, all baked to bubbly perfection. Perfect for a family dinner or a cozy night in!
📋 Ingredients:
For the Pasta & Sauce:
• 12 oz spaghetti (or any pasta of choice) 🍝
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 1 small onion, diced 🧅
• 2 cloves garlic, minced 🧄 (or ½ tsp garlic powder)
• 1 cup milk 🥛 (whole milk for a richer sauce, or 2% for a lighter version)
• 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of chicken soup (or cream of mushroom/bacon for a flavor twist)
• 8 oz cream cheese, softened 🧀 (full-fat for best flavor)
• ½ tsp salt
• ½ tsp black pepper
• ½ tsp Italian seasoning (optional for added depth)
For the Topping:
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese 🧀
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese 🧀
• 6-8 slices bacon, cooked & crumbled 🥓
• Fresh parsley or chives, chopped (for garnish, optional)
🔥 How to Make Creamy Bacon Pasta:
1️⃣ Cook the Pasta:
• Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
• Cook spaghetti al dente according to package instructions.
• Drain and rinse under cold water to stop cooking.
2️⃣ Make the Creamy Sauce:
• Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
• Add onions and cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
• Stir in garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.
• Add milk, cream cheese, and cream of chicken soup, stirring until smooth and creamy.
• Season with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning (if using).
• Simmer over low heat for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.
3️⃣ Toss and Assemble:
• Add cooked spaghetti to the skillet and toss to coat in the creamy sauce.
• Transfer the pasta mixture to a greased 9×13 baking dish.
• Sprinkle mozzarella, cheddar cheese, and crumbled bacon evenly on top.
4️⃣ Bake to Perfection:
• Cover with foil and bake at 375°F (190°C) for 20 minutes.
• Remove foil and bake for another 10 minutes.
• Turn on the broiler for 3-5 minutes to get a golden, bubbly crust.
5️⃣ Serve & Enjoy:
• Let the pasta rest for 5 minutes before serving.
• Garnish with fresh parsley or chives and enjoy warm!
💡 Tips & Variations:
✔ Add Veggies: Stir in mushrooms, peas, broccoli, or bell peppers for extra flavor and nutrients.
✔ Make it Spicy: Sprinkle red pepper flakes or drizzle with hot sauce for a kick! 🌶️
✔ Switch the Protein: Swap bacon for chicken, sausage, or even shrimp for a different twist.
✔ Gluten-Free Option: Use gluten-free pasta and a gluten-free cream soup substitute.
🍽️ What to Serve With It:
• Garlic bread or crusty rolls 🥖
• Green salad with balsamic dressing 🥗
• Roasted vegetables (like garlic green beans or roasted cauliflower)
⏳ Time & Servings:
• Prep Time: 15 min
• Cook Time: 30 min
• Total Time: 45 min
• Servings: 6-8
🔥 Ultra-creamy, cheesy, and packed with crispy bacon—this pasta dish is pure comfort in a bowl! Try it tonight for a family favorite meal that everyone will love! 🧀🥓🍝