Rich Creamy Bacon Pasta

This creamy bacon pasta is the ultimate comfort food that transforms ordinary spaghetti into a decadent, cheesy delight perfect for family dinners. The combination of cream cheese and two melty cheeses creates an irresistibly rich sauce that hugs every strand of pasta, while crispy bacon adds that perfect savory crunch.

I first made this creamy pasta during a particularly hectic week when I needed something foolproof that would please everyone at the table. Now it has become our Sunday night tradition, with the kids literally counting down the days until bacon pasta night rolls around again.

Ingredients

• Spaghetti: Forms the backbone of this dish providing the perfect canvas for the creamy sauce
• Cream cheese: Creates the luxuriously smooth texture that makes this pasta irresistible
• Bacon: Adds that smoky savory element that elevates the entire dish to new heights
• Two cheese blend: Mozzarella for stretch and cheddar for sharp flavor creates the perfect cheesy topping
• Cream of chicken soup: Adds depth and body to the sauce with minimal effort
• Fresh parsley: Brightens the rich dish with color and fresh flavor
• Garlic and onion: Build an aromatic foundation that infuses the entire dish with flavor

Step-by-Step Instructions

Prepare the pasta:

Cook the spaghetti just until al dente following package directions. Be careful not to overcook as it will continue softening in the oven. Immediately rinse under cold water to stop the cooking process and drain well.

Create the flavor base:

Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium high heat until it shimmers. Add chopped onion and cook for about 4 minutes until it becomes translucent and begins to soften. Add the minced garlic and continue cooking for exactly 1 minute until you can smell the garlic becoming fragrant. Watch carefully as garlic can burn quickly.

Make the creamy sauce:

Reduce the heat to medium low and add milk, softened cream cheese, and cream of chicken soup. Stir continuously until the cream cheese completely melts and blends into the sauce. This may take 5 to 7 minutes. Season with salt and pepper, tasting to ensure the seasoning is balanced.

Combine and assemble:

Add the cooked spaghetti to the pot with the sauce and gently toss until every strand is thoroughly coated. Transfer this mixture to a 9x13 baking dish, spreading it out evenly. Sprinkle the combined mozzarella and cheddar cheeses over the top, then distribute the crumbled bacon evenly across the surface.

Bake to perfection:

Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake in your preheated oven for 20 minutes. This allows the flavors to meld while preventing the top from browning too quickly. Remove the foil and continue baking for 10 more minutes. For that golden brown cheese crust, switch to broil for the final 5 minutes, keeping a close eye to prevent burning.

Finish and serve:

Remove from oven when the top is bubbling and golden brown. Let it rest for 5 minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh chopped parsley for a pop of color and fresh flavor.

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The cream cheese is truly the secret weapon in this recipe. I discovered its magic when I ran out of heavy cream one evening and substituted cream cheese in desperation. The resulting pasta was so much richer and more satisfying that I never went back to my old recipe. My husband now requests this specific version whenever we have guests over, and I love watching their eyes light up at the first bite.

Make Ahead Tips

This pasta bake actually improves with time as the flavors meld together. You can assemble the entire dish up to 24 hours before baking. Simply cover with foil and refrigerate, then add an extra 10 minutes to the covered baking time when cooking from cold. The pasta will absorb some of the sauce overnight, creating an even more flavorful result.

Smart Substitutions

This recipe welcomes many adaptations based on what you have on hand. Penne or rotini can replace spaghetti for easier serving. Turkey bacon offers a lighter alternative to traditional bacon while still providing that smoky flavor. For a vegetarian version, simply substitute cream of mushroom soup for the cream of chicken and omit the bacon or use a plant based alternative.

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Serving Suggestions

This rich pasta pairs beautifully with something fresh and acidic to balance the creaminess. A simple arugula salad dressed with lemon vinaigrette makes the perfect counterpoint. For a complete meal, add roasted broccoli or asparagus on the side. The pasta also reheats wonderfully for lunches throughout the week, just add a splash of milk when reheating to revive the creamy texture.

Frequently Asked Questions

→ Can I use a different type of pasta for this dish?

Yes, you can substitute spaghetti with any pasta of your choice, such as penne, fettuccine, or rigatoni. Adjust cooking times accordingly to ensure the pasta is al dente.

→ How do I ensure the cream sauce is smooth?

To achieve a smooth sauce, reduce the heat to low when adding cream cheese, milk, and cream of chicken soup. Stir continuously to prevent lumps and ensure all ingredients are fully incorporated.

→ Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the pasta and sauce ahead, assemble it in the baking dish, and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours. Bake as directed when ready to serve.

→ What’s the best way to cook the bacon?

The bacon can be pan-fried, baked, or cooked in an air fryer until crispy. Crumble it into small pieces and use it as a topping for the dish.

→ Can I add vegetables to this dish?

Absolutely! Vegetables like spinach, mushrooms, or steamed broccoli can be added to the sauce or mixed in with the pasta for extra flavor and nutrition.