Description
Dive into a bowl of Creamy Bacon and Mushroom Pasta with a Hint of Dijon, where crispy bacon, earthy mushrooms, and a velvety Dijon-infused sauce combine to create a restaurant-quality meal. This dish is indulgent yet easy to make, perfect for a weeknight dinner or a cozy gathering with loved ones.
Ingredients
Scale
- 8 ounces uncooked pasta (such as bucatini or spaghetti)
- 6 strips bacon (cut into small pieces)
- 8 ounces cremini mushrooms (sliced)
- 2 cloves garlic (minced)
- 1/3 cup chicken broth or dry white wine
- 1/4 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1 teaspoon lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon flour
- 1/2 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- 1 cup heavy or whipping cream
- Salt & pepper to taste
- Freshly grated parmesan cheese
- Chopped parsley
Instructions
- Cook the Pasta: Cook the pasta in a large pot of salted boiling water according to package instructions. Once cooked, drain and set aside, reserving a bit of pasta water.
- Cook the Bacon: In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the bacon pieces until crispy. Transfer the bacon from the skillet to a plate lined with paper towels to drain excess grease. Leave about 1 tablespoon of bacon fat in the skillet (drain excess if necessary).
- Sauté the Mushrooms and Garlic: Add the sliced mushrooms to the skillet with the bacon fat. Sauté for 5–7 minutes or until the mushrooms are golden and softened. Stir in the minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds, or until it becomes aromatic.
- Prepare the Sauce Base: Sprinkle the flour over the mushrooms and stir to coat. Add the chicken broth (or white wine), Italian seasoning, lemon juice, and Dijon mustard. Stir well and cook for 1–2 minutes to allow the sauce to thicken slightly.
- Add the Cream and Seasoning: Pour in the heavy cream, stirring continuously. Bring the sauce to a gentle simmer, then add salt and pepper to taste. Simmer the sauce for an additional 2-3 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it thickens to your preferred consistency.
- Combine with Pasta and Bacon: Add the cooked pasta and crispy bacon back into the skillet, tossing everything to coat the pasta in the creamy sauce.
- Serve and Garnish: Divide the pasta into bowls and garnish with freshly grated parmesan cheese and chopped parsley if desired. Serve immediately.
Notes
- Dijon Flavor: If you love the tangy kick, feel free to add a little more Dijon mustard.
- Vegetarian Option: Skip the bacon and add roasted vegetables like asparagus or spinach for a meat-free version.
- Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently with a splash of cream or milk to refresh the sauce.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian-inspired