Creamy Bacon Spinach Alfredo Skillet

Discover the mouthwatering delight of Creamy Bacon Spinach Alfredo Skillet, a simple yet indulgent pasta recipe that brings together a rich Alfredo sauce, crispy bacon, and fresh spinach. Perfect for both cozy dinners and family gatherings, this dish is ready in under 30 minutes and uses just a handful of ingredients. Experience the creamy texture and harmonious flavors that will impress even the pickiest eaters. Cooking has never been this satisfying!

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Ingredients

8 oz fettuccine or any pasta of your choice

4 strips of thick-cut bacon, chopped into bite-sized pieces

3 cups fresh spinach, roughly chopped

2 cloves garlic, minced

1 cup heavy cream

1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese

1 tsp Italian seasoning

Salt and freshly cracked black pepper, to taste

2 tbsp olive oil

1/4 tsp red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)

Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions

Cook the Pasta: In a large pot, bring salted water to a rolling boil. Add the fettuccine and cook according to package instructions until it reaches an al dente texture. Once cooked, drain the pasta but reserve 1/2 cup of the pasta water for later use.

Cook the Bacon: Heat a large skillet over medium heat and add the chopped bacon. Cook until the bacon turns crispy and golden, about 5-7 minutes. Once done, use a slotted spoon to transfer the bacon to a plate lined with paper towels to absorb excess grease.

Sauté Spinach and Garlic: With the skillet still on medium heat, carefully discard most of the bacon grease, leaving about 1 tablespoon in the pan. If desired, add olive oil for more flavor and moisture. Add the minced garlic and sauté for approximately 30 seconds, or until fragrant. Next, incorporate the chopped spinach and cook, stirring occasionally, until it wilts, which should take about 2-3 minutes.

Create the Alfredo Sauce: Reduce the heat to low and pour the heavy cream into the skillet. Stir well and allow it to come to a gentle simmer. Gradually add the freshly grated Parmesan cheese, Italian seasoning, salt, freshly cracked black pepper, and optional red pepper flakes. Stir continuously for about 3-5 minutes until the cheese melts and the sauce thickens slightly, forming a creamy consistency.

Combine Pasta and Sauce: Carefully add the drained pasta to the skillet, gently tossing it to ensure the pasta is well-coated in the creamy Alfredo sauce. If the sauce appears too thick for your liking, gradually mix in the reserved pasta water until you achieve your desired richness and consistency.

Incorporate the Bacon and Serve: Fold in the crispy bacon, making sure it's evenly distributed throughout the pasta. Taste the dish and adjust the seasoning as needed. Serve immediately, garnished with a sprinkle of fresh chopped parsley for a vibrant touch.

Prep Time, Total Time, Servings: 10 minutes | 30 minutes | 4 servings

- Presentation Tips: Serve in large bowls, garnished with extra Parmesan cheese and a sprinkle of red pepper flakes for a pop of color and added flavor. Consider pairing this dish with a side of garlic bread or a light salad for a complete meal experience. Enjoy!