Creamy Bacon Spaghetti: A Rich and Cheesy Comfort Dish
Pasta lovers, get ready for the ultimate rich, creamy, and cheesy spaghetti dish! This Creamy Bacon Spaghetti is a mouthwatering combination of crispy bacon, melted cheese, and a luscious creamy sauce that coats every strand of pasta. Whether you’re preparing a hearty weeknight dinner, a special weekend meal, or an indulgent comfort dish, this recipe is guaranteed to satisfy your cravings.
Introduction
There’s nothing quite like a plate of cheesy, creamy spaghetti packed with bold flavors. This Creamy Bacon Spaghetti takes classic pasta to a new level by blending savory bacon, rich cream cheese, and a hint of garlic and onions into a smooth, decadent sauce. Every bite is a perfect balance of cheesy goodness and smoky bacon, making it a favorite for both kids and adults.
The best part? This easy pasta recipe comes together in just 30 minutes with simple pantry ingredients. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight meal or a comforting dish for guests, this spaghetti recipe is a must-try. Let’s get started!
Ingredients
To prepare this creamy and flavorful spaghetti dish, you’ll need the following:
Essential Ingredients
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 onion, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 3½ cups milk
- 10.5 oz cream of chicken soup
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1 tsp salt
- ½ tsp black pepper
- 1 lb uncooked spaghetti
- 1 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded
- 1 cup cheddar cheese, shredded
- ¾ cup cooked bacon, crumbled
- 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
- ½ cup salted butter, chilled
- 2/3 cup milk
How to Make Creamy Bacon Spaghetti
1. Cook the Bacon
Start by cooking the bacon in a large skillet over medium heat until crispy. Once done, transfer it to a plate lined with paper towels to drain excess grease. Chop or crumble the bacon into small pieces and set it aside.
2. Cook the Spaghetti
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the spaghetti according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside, reserving about ½ cup of pasta water for later use if needed.
3. Sauté the Onion and Garlic
In a large pan, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté until soft and translucent, about 3-4 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds until fragrant.
4. Make the Creamy Sauce
Reduce the heat to low and slowly add 3½ cups of milk to the pan. Stir in the cream of chicken soup, softened cream cheese, salt, and black pepper. Continue stirring until the cream cheese is fully melted and the sauce is smooth.
5. Combine Everything
Add the cooked spaghetti to the creamy sauce, tossing it gently to coat every strand. If the sauce is too thick, add a little reserved pasta water or extra milk to reach your desired consistency.
6. Add the Cheese and Bacon
Sprinkle in the shredded mozzarella and cheddar cheese, stirring continuously until the cheese is fully melted and evenly distributed. Add the crumbled bacon and mix well.
7. Final Touches
Stir in the chilled butter and extra 2/3 cup of milk, allowing the butter to melt into the sauce for an extra creamy texture. Garnish with fresh parsley for a pop of color and flavor.
8. Serve & Enjoy!
Serve this Creamy Bacon Spaghetti hot, with extra cheese and crispy bacon on top for an irresistible finishing touch. Pair it with garlic bread, a side salad, or roasted vegetables for a complete meal.
Helpful Tips
- Use Freshly Shredded Cheese: Pre-shredded cheese contains anti-caking agents that can affect the texture of the sauce. Shred your cheese fresh for a smoother, meltier consistency.
- Don’t Overcook the Pasta: Cooking it al dente ensures it absorbs the sauce without becoming mushy.
- Control the Thickness of the Sauce: If the sauce is too thick, add a splash of milk or reserved pasta water to loosen it up.
- Crispier Bacon Option: For extra crispy bacon, bake it in the oven at 400°F (200°C) for 15-20 minutes instead of frying.
- Make it Spicier: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or cayenne pepper for a little heat.
Cooking Tips
- Upgrade the Cheese: Try using a mix of Parmesan, Gruyère, or Monterey Jack for a unique flavor profile.
- Add More Protein: Grilled chicken, shrimp, or sausage make great additions to this creamy pasta.
- Vegetable Boost: Toss in spinach, mushrooms, or roasted bell peppers for extra nutrients.
- Gluten-Free Option: Use gluten-free pasta and ensure the soup and other ingredients are gluten-free.
Serving Suggestions
This creamy bacon spaghetti pairs perfectly with a variety of side dishes. Try it with:
- Garlic Bread – A buttery, crispy side to soak up the delicious sauce.
- Steamed Broccoli or Asparagus – Adds a fresh and healthy contrast.
- Caesar Salad – A crisp, tangy salad balances the richness of the pasta.
- Roasted Cherry Tomatoes – Their sweetness enhances the flavors of the dish.
Nutritional Information
Here’s an estimated breakdown per serving:
- Calories: 720
- Carbohydrates: 60g
- Protein: 25g
- Fat: 42g
- Saturated Fat: 20g
- Cholesterol: 100mg
- Sodium: 850mg
- Fiber: 3g
- Sugar: 6g
- Calcium: 25%
- Iron: 10%
Storage & Leftovers
- Refrigerate: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Reheat: Warm in a pan over low heat, adding a splash of milk to restore creaminess.
- Freezing: While possible, freezing may alter the texture of the sauce. If freezing, reheat gently with added liquid.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can I use a different type of pasta?
Yes! Fettuccine, penne, or rigatoni work well with the creamy sauce.
What can I use instead of cream of chicken soup?
You can substitute with heavy cream or a homemade roux (butter, flour, and broth) for a fresher alternative.
Can I make it ahead of time?
Yes! Prepare the sauce and store it separately from the pasta. Mix and heat before serving.
Related Recipes You’ll Love
Here are some other delicious pasta and comfort food recipes to try:
- Teriyaki Salmon Bowls with Crispy Brussels Sprouts
- Crispy Fish Batter Recipe
- Copycat Olive Garden Chicken Gnocchi Soup
- Oyster Stew – A Classic Comfort Dish
Conclusion
This Creamy Bacon Spaghetti is the ultimate comfort food—rich, cheesy, and packed with smoky bacon flavor. With simple ingredients and a creamy, luscious sauce, this pasta dish is quick, easy, and incredibly satisfying. Try it today and enjoy a warm and comforting meal that the whole family will love! 🍝🥓