Save A rich and comforting pasta dish featuring silky garlic butter sauce, tossed with al dente pasta and finished with a golden, crispy bacon crumble for irresistible texture and flavor.
The first time I made this Garlic Butter Pasta with Crispy Bacon Crumble, everyone at the table kept asking for seconds. The simple ingredients come together so beautifully, each bite feels indulgent and special.
Ingredients
- Pasta: 400 g (14 oz) spaghetti or linguine, 1 tablespoon salt (for pasta water)
- Bacon Crumble: 6 slices streaky bacon (chopped), 1 teaspoon olive oil
- Garlic Butter Sauce: 60 g (1/4 cup) unsalted butter, 4 large garlic cloves (finely minced), 1/2 teaspoon chili flakes (optional), 50 ml (1/4 cup) pasta cooking water, 30 g (1/4 cup) grated Parmesan cheese, salt and freshly ground black pepper (to taste)
- Garnish: 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley, extra grated Parmesan (to serve)
Instructions
- Cook Pasta:
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1/2 cup pasta water, then drain.
- Make Bacon Crumble:
- While pasta cooks, heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add chopped bacon and fry until crispy and golden, about 6–8 minutes. Transfer bacon to a plate lined with paper towels. Set aside.
- Prepare Garlic Butter Sauce:
- In the same skillet, lower the heat and add butter. Once melted, add minced garlic and chili flakes (if using). Sauté gently for 1–2 minutes until fragrant. Do not brown.
- Toss Pasta With Sauce:
- Add the drained pasta to the skillet and toss to coat in the garlic butter. Add 50 ml reserved pasta water and Parmesan, tossing until the sauce is silky and clings to the pasta. Season with salt and black pepper to taste.
- Serve:
- Serve immediately, topped with crispy bacon crumble, chopped parsley, and extra Parmesan.
Save This recipe quickly became a family favorite in our home–my kids love the crunchy bacon on top and my partner always requests it for cozy nights in.
Recipe Variations
For vegetarians, swap out the bacon for crispy fried mushrooms or toasted breadcrumbs. You can also add a handful of baby spinach or sun-dried tomatoes for extra flavor.
Serving Suggestions
Pair this pasta with a crisp Pinot Grigio or sparkling water with a twist of lemon for a refreshing accompaniment to the rich, buttery sauce.
Required Tools
You will need a large pot, skillet or frying pan, tongs, colander, chefs knife and chopping board to make this dish with ease.
Save Enjoy every forkful of this garlic butter pasta—it's perfect for comfort or celebration, ready in just 30 minutes.
Recipe FAQ Section
- → How do I get the pasta perfectly al dente?
Cook pasta in a large pot of boiling salted water according to package directions but test a minute earlier to ensure a firm bite.
- → What’s the best way to achieve crispy bacon crumble?
Fry chopped streaky bacon over medium heat until golden and crisp, then drain on paper towels to remove excess fat.
- → Can I make the sauce without butter?
Butter creates the rich base, but olive oil can be used as a substitute, though the sauce texture and flavor will be lighter.
- → How does reserved pasta water help the sauce?
The starchy pasta water helps emulsify the butter and Parmesan, giving the sauce a silky, smooth texture that clings well.
- → What garnish complements the flavors best?
Fresh chopped parsley adds vibrant color and a subtle herbal note that balances the richness of butter and bacon.
- → Can I add spice to the dish?
Yes, a pinch of chili flakes in the garlic butter sauce introduces a gentle heat without overpowering the flavors.