Tender pasta tossed in garlic butter, finished with a golden, crispy bacon crumble for irresistible texture.
# What You'll Need:
→ Pasta
01 - 14 oz spaghetti or linguine
02 - 1 tablespoon salt (for pasta water)
→ Bacon Crumble
03 - 6 slices streaky bacon, chopped
04 - 1 teaspoon olive oil
→ Garlic Butter Sauce
05 - 1/4 cup unsalted butter
06 - 4 large garlic cloves, finely minced
07 - 1/2 teaspoon chili flakes (optional)
08 - 1/4 cup reserved pasta cooking water
09 - 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
10 - Salt, to taste
11 - Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
→ Garnish
12 - 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
13 - Extra grated Parmesan cheese, for serving
# Step-by-Step Guide:
01 - Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook pasta until al dente according to package directions. Reserve 1/2 cup pasta water and drain the pasta.
02 - Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add chopped bacon and fry until crispy and golden, about 6 to 8 minutes. Transfer to a paper towel-lined plate to drain.
03 - In the same skillet, reduce heat and melt butter. Add minced garlic and chili flakes if using. Sauté gently for 1 to 2 minutes until fragrant without browning.
04 - Add drained pasta to the skillet and toss to coat with the garlic butter. Stir in reserved pasta water and Parmesan cheese until the sauce is smooth and clings to the pasta. Season with salt and black pepper to taste.
05 - Plate the pasta immediately, topped with the crispy bacon crumble, chopped parsley, and additional Parmesan cheese.
