Creamy Bacon, Leek, and Cheese Pasta

An easy and quick pasta dish with bacon, cheese, and leeks | Feelingfoodish.com

5 from 1 vote

Creamy Bacon, Leek, and Cheese Pasta

Bacon, cheese, and leek pasta is a creamy and flavorful dish that's so easy to make and perfect for a comforting weeknight dinner. A delicious and savory sauce clings to the pasta, while the addition of garlic and red pepper flakes adds a bit of depth and heat to the dish.

Prep Time15

Cook Time25

Total Time40

Course: Main Course

Cuisine: American

Servings:

Calories: 501kcal

Author: Marie

Ingredients

12 ounces pasta (I used penne)
4 slices bacon cut into 1/2 pieces
1 bunch leeks white and light green parts only, sliced thinly
1 clove garlic minced
3/4 cup heavy cream
1/3 cup Parmesan cheese plus more for topping
1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes
1 cup reserved pasta water may not need whole thing; only use what you need
1/4 teaspoon fresh ground black pepper or to taste
fresh parsley for garnish (optional)

Instructions

Cook pasta according to package directions.
Before draining pasta, reserve 1 cup of pasta water and set aside.
In the meantime, cook bacon over medium heat in a large skillet until crisp, stirring occasionally, about 8 minutes. Remove from pan, and place on paper towels. Reserve 1 tablespoon of bacon drippings in pan and pour off the rest of the bacon fat.
Add leeks to reserved bacon fat in pan, season with salt and pepper (to taste) and saute until soft, about 3 minutes.
Add garlic and saute for about 30 seconds.
Add cream and continue cooking for about 2 minutes.
Add drained pasta to pan with cream and leeks, and add half the bacon, the Parmesan, red pepper flakes, and 1/2 teaspoon of black pepper.
Add a small amount of pasta water (enough to loosen the mixture).
Top with the other half of bacon, extra Parmesan, and parsley.
Serve immediately.

Notes

Try Greek yogurt, or low/no fat sour cream in place of heavy cream for less fat

Nutrition