Description

Creamy cauliflower and bacon pasta is a delightful comfort dish that seamlessly blends crispy bacon with a velvety cauliflower sauce, all tossed in your favorite pasta. This quick and easy recipe transforms a busy weeknight into a culinary adventure, impressing family and friends alike. With just a few simple ingredients, you’ll create a satisfying meal perfect for any occasion. Enjoy the rich flavors and creamy texture that make this dish irresistible.

Ingredients

Scale

8 oz pasta (spaghetti or penne)
2 cups fresh cauliflower florets
4 strips thick-cut bacon
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 cup heavy cream
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1 cup low-sodium vegetable broth
Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

1. Cook the pasta in salted boiling water until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water, then drain.
2. Steam or boil cauliflower florets until fork-tender, about 10 minutes. Drain well.
3. In a skillet, fry bacon over medium heat until crispy. Remove bacon but keep drippings.
4. Sauté minced garlic in the skillet with bacon drippings for one minute. Add steamed cauliflower, heavy cream, and vegetable broth; blend until smooth.
5. Combine the cooked pasta with the creamy sauce in the skillet over low heat, adding reserved pasta water as needed to reach desired consistency.
6. Serve hot with grated Parmesan cheese sprinkled on top.

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Category: Main
Method: Frying
Cuisine: Italian

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 plate (approx. 400g)
Calories: 650
Sugar: 3g
Sodium: 720mg
Fat: 42g
Saturated Fat: 22g
Unsaturated Fat: 16g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 51g
Fiber: 4g
Protein: 21g
Cholesterol: 110mg

Keywords: Substitute broccoli for cauliflower or add peas for extra color and nutrition. For added spice, sprinkle chili flakes on top before serving. Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to three days; reheat gently on the stove with a splash of milk.