Looking for a rich and flavorful sauce to elevate your pasta dishes? This Mushroom Bacon Pasta Sauce is a delightful combination of earthy mushrooms and savory bacon that will instantly make your meal more comforting and delicious. The umami flavors from the mushrooms and the smokiness of the bacon create a perfect harmony that pairs beautifully with any type of pasta you choose. Whether you’re cooking for a cozy night in or entertaining guests, this sauce is sure to impress and satisfy even the pickiest eaters.
**Mushroom Bacon Pasta Sauce**
**Ingredients:**
– 6 slices of bacon, diced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 3 cloves of garlic, minced
– 8 oz. cremini mushrooms, sliced
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– 1 teaspoon dried oregano
– 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
– 1 cup chicken or vegetable broth
– 1 cup heavy cream
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish
– Grated Parmesan cheese, for serving
– Cooked pasta of your choice
**Instructions:**
1. In a large skillet, cook the diced bacon over medium heat until it becomes crispy and golden brown. Remove the bacon from the skillet using a slotted spoon and set it aside on a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess grease. Leave about 1 tablespoon of bacon fat in the skillet.
2. Add olive oil to the skillet with the remaining bacon fat. Sauté the chopped onion until it becomes translucent, about 4-5 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute until fragrant.
3. Stir in the sliced mushrooms and cook until they release their juices and begin to brown, about 5-7 minutes. Add the dried thyme, dried oregano, and red pepper flakes (if using), and season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Pour in the chicken or vegetable broth, scraping the bottom of the skillet to deglaze and incorporate all the flavorful browned bits. Let the mixture simmer for about 5 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
5. Reduce the heat to low and stir in the heavy cream, allowing the sauce to thicken slightly, about 3-5 minutes. Taste and adjust the seasoning if needed.
6. Return the crispy bacon to the skillet, stirring to combine all the ingredients. Simmer the sauce for an additional 2-3 minutes to ensure everything is heated through.
7. Serve the Mushroom Bacon Pasta Sauce over cooked pasta of your choice. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley and grated Parmesan cheese for an extra burst of flavor.
Enjoy this indulgent and comforting Mushroom Bacon Pasta Sauce with your favorite pasta for a delightful meal that will warm your heart and satisfy your taste buds. This versatile sauce is perfect for a family dinner or a cozy date night at home.
