Creamy Bacon Mushroom Pasta

Creamy Bacon Mushroom Pasta is the kind of comforting dinner that feels indulgent yet effortless. From the very first bite, silky cream sauce wraps around tender pasta, while smoky bacon and savory mushrooms create deep, satisfying flavor. Even better, this dish comes together quickly, making it perfect for busy evenings or relaxed weekend meals.

While pasta with cream sauces has roots in European comfort cooking, versions like this became popular as home cooks began blending rustic ingredients with simple techniques. Over time, bacon replaced pancetta, mushrooms replaced truffles, and the result became a modern classic loved everywhere.

Meanwhile, mushrooms bring earthiness and texture, while bacon adds richness and balance. As everything simmers together, flavors meld beautifully. Then, with a final sprinkle of cheese, the dish transforms into something cozy yet elegant.

Whether served for family dinner or a casual gathering, this pasta always feels special. Most importantly, it’s a recipe you’ll want to make again and again, because it delivers comfort, flavor, and ease in every forkful.

Recipe Yield: 4 servings

INGREDIENTS

12 oz pasta (linguine or spaghetti)
6 slices bacon, chopped
2 Tbsp unsalted butter
8 oz mushrooms, sliced
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 cup heavy cream
½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
½ tsp salt
½ tsp black pepper
¼ tsp dried thyme
¼ cup pasta cooking water (as needed)
2 Tbsp fresh parsley, chopped

INSTRUCTIONS

1. Cook the pasta:
First, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Then, cook pasta until al dente. Reserve ¼ cup pasta water, drain, and set aside.

2. Crisp the bacon:
Next, cook chopped bacon in a large skillet over medium heat until golden and crisp. Remove bacon and set aside, leaving drippings in the pan.

3. Sauté mushrooms:
Meanwhile, add butter to the skillet. Once melted, add mushrooms and cook until softened and lightly browned.

4. Add aromatics:
Then, stir in garlic and thyme. Cook for 30 seconds until fragrant, stirring constantly.

5. Create the sauce:
Slowly pour in cream, stirring gently. Season with salt and pepper. Let simmer for 3–4 minutes until slightly thickened.

6. Combine everything:
Add pasta and bacon to the sauce. Toss gently. If needed, add reserved pasta water for silkiness.

7. Finish and serve:
Finally, remove from heat. Stir in Parmesan and parsley. Serve warm with extra cheese.

HELPFUL TIPS TO PERFECT THIS RECIPE

• Perfect Mushroom Texture: Let mushrooms cook undisturbed at first. This helps them brown instead of steaming, adding deeper flavor.
• Silky Cream Sauce: Always simmer gently. High heat can cause separation, while low heat keeps the sauce smooth and glossy.
• Balanced Seasoning: Taste after adding cheese. Parmesan adds saltiness, so final seasoning should always come last.