Creamy Bacon Cavatappi Pasta
Indulge in this creamy bacon cavatappi pasta that's bursting with flavor! The combination of crispy bacon, rich tomato sauce, and velvety heavy cream creates a delightful dish that's perfect for a cozy dinner or a special gathering. Easy to make and utterly satisfying, it's sure to become a family favorite.
- Author
- Gabriella McMurtrie
- Prep Time
- 15 minutes
- Cook Time
- 20 minutes
- Servings
- 4
- Cuisine
Italian
Ingredients
- 1 pack Bacon, cut into small pieces (340g)
- 24 fl oz Tomato, Onion, Garlic pasta sauce, (such as Hill Country Fare)
- 8 fl oz Heavy Whipping Cream
- 1 lb Cork Screw Cavatappi Pasta
- 1 tbsp Paprika, to taste
- 1 tsp Salt, to taste
- 1 tsp Pepper, to taste
- 4 qt Water, for boiling pasta
Directions
- Bring 4 quarts of water to a rolling boil in a large pot. Add 1 teaspoon of salt and the cavatappi pasta. Cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente, about 8-10 minutes. Reserve 1 cup of pasta cooking water before draining the pasta, then set aside.
- In a large skillet over medium heat, add the chopped bacon. Cook until crispy and golden brown, about 8-10 minutes. Use a slotted spoon to transfer the bacon to a paper towel-lined plate, leaving the rendered fat in the skillet.
- Reduce the heat to medium-low and pour in the tomato, onion, and garlic pasta sauce. Stir to combine with the bacon fat and cook for 3-4 minutes until heated through and fragrant.
- Add the heavy whipping cream to the sauce and stir until fully incorporated. Allow the sauce to simmer for an additional 3-5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until slightly thickened.
- Season the sauce with paprika, salt, and pepper to taste. Adjust the seasoning as needed, keeping in mind the saltiness of the bacon.
- Add the cooked cavatappi pasta to the skillet with the sauce. Toss to coat the pasta evenly, adding reserved pasta water as needed to reach your desired sauce consistency.
- Finally, fold in the crispy bacon, reserving a small amount for garnish if desired. Serve immediately, garnished with remaining bacon and freshly cracked black pepper.