Description
Penne Pasta with Spinach and Bacon is a comforting and flavorful Italian classic, combining smoky bacon, earthy spinach, and hearty pasta in a balanced and satisfying dish. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner or an impressive dish for a dinner party, this recipe is a go-to for both ease and taste.
Ingredients
Scale
- 300g penne pasta
- 6 slices of bacon (cut into small pieces)
- 200g fresh spinach
- 2 cloves garlic (minced)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1 cup heavy cream or 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional for creaminess)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Red pepper flakes (optional, for a spicy kick)
Instructions
- Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the penne pasta and cook until al dente, approximately 10-12 minutes. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water, then drain and set the pasta aside.
- Prepare the Bacon: In a large skillet, cook the chopped bacon over medium heat until crispy. Remove the bacon and drain it on a paper towel, leaving a small amount of bacon fat in the pan.
- Sauté Spinach and Garlic: Add olive oil and butter to the skillet. Once melted, sauté the minced garlic for 1-2 minutes until fragrant. Add the fresh spinach and cook until wilted.
- Combine Ingredients: Return the bacon to the skillet. Stir in heavy cream or Parmesan cheese if desired for a creamier sauce. Mix well to meld flavors.
- Mix with Pasta: Add the cooked penne pasta to the skillet. Toss everything together, using reserved pasta water to adjust the sauce consistency if needed. Season with salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes to taste.
- Serve: Transfer the dish to a serving bowl, garnish with extra Parmesan if desired, and enjoy warm.