Shrimp and Bacon Pasta
Indulge in the creamy decadence of Shrimp and Bacon Pasta, where tender shrimp and crispy bacon meet a rich tomato-based sauce. Ready in just 30 minutes, it’s an Italian-inspired delight perfect for weeknight dinners or entertaining guests.
The velvety sauce, enhanced by garlic, Dijon mustard, and Parmesan, perfectly complements the al dente pasta. This dish balances savory, tangy, and smoky flavors in every bite, making it an irresistible crowd-pleaser.
Star Ingredients in Shrimp and Bacon Pasta
- Shrimp – The tender, juicy protein adds a seafood flair, perfectly absorbing the creamy sauce.
- Bacon – Crispy, smoky bites that elevate the dish’s richness.
- Garlic – A fragrant base for the sauce, enhancing every ingredient.
- Tomato – Brings a tangy brightness to the creamy sauce.
- Dijon Mustard – A subtle zing that deepens the sauce’s complexity.
- Heavy Cream – The luxurious base that ties everything together.
- Parmesan Cheese – Adds a nutty, salty finish to the sauce.
How to Bring It All Together
- Prep the Pasta: Cook pasta until perfectly al dente; set aside.
- Crisp the Bacon: Sizzle bacon to golden perfection, saving some rendered fat for flavor.
- Create the Base: Sauté garlic and tomato with Dijon mustard and Italian seasoning, creating a fragrant and tangy foundation.
- Make It Creamy: Add heavy cream, simmer to thicken, and infuse flavors.
- Add the Stars: Toss shrimp and bacon into the sauce, cooking shrimp until pink and tender.
- Marry the Flavors: Coat pasta in the sauce, stir in Parmesan, and season to taste.
Pro Tips for Perfection
For maximum flavor, use fresh Parmesan instead of pre-grated cheese, as it melts more smoothly into the sauce. If you prefer a spicier kick, add a pinch of red pepper flakes during the sauce preparation. To ensure the shrimp are cooked to perfection, remove them from the heat as soon as they turn opaque and pink.
Storing Leftovers
To store, transfer cooled pasta to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove or microwave with a splash of cream or broth to revive the sauce’s creamy consistency. Freezing is not recommended as the sauce may separate upon thawing.
Enjoy this irresistible Shrimp and Bacon Pasta, a dish that promises to turn any meal into an unforgettable feast!
Shrimp and Bacon Pasta Recipe
Ingredients
- 8 ounces pasta uncooked
- 1 pound medium or large shrimp thawed, peeled, and tails removed (optional)
- 4 strips bacon diced
- 1 large garlic clove minced
- 1 medium tomato finely diced
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- 2 dashes Italian seasoning
- 1/4 cup chicken broth or dry white wine
- 1 cup heavy or whipping cream
- 1/2 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley chopped (optional)
Instructions
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- While the pasta cooks, cut the bacon into small pieces. In a skillet over medium-high heat, fry the bacon until crispy, about 7-10 minutes. Remove the bacon from the pan and set aside, leaving a small amount of the rendered fat in the skillet for flavor.
- Add the tomato, garlic, Dijon mustard, Italian seasoning, and chicken broth to the skillet. Stir well and simmer for 1-2 minutes.
- Pour in the heavy cream and cook for about 5 minutes, allowing the sauce to reduce and thicken. Lower the heat if it bubbles excessively.
- Return the bacon and shrimp to the pan. Cook for 4-5 minutes, or until the shrimp are pink and fully cooked.
- Toss the drained pasta in the sauce until evenly coated.
- Stir in the Parmesan cheese and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper to taste. Garnish with parsley, if desired, before serving.