Introduction
is my absolute go-to when I need to impress without stressing (which, let's be honest, is pretty much every Friday night lately). I stumbled upon this recipe during last year's endless work-from-home phase, and oh my goodness – it's been a game-changer. The way the silky sauce hugs each fettuccine strand, while crispy bacon adds that smoky crunch and tender broccoli florets bring a pop of color and nutrition... it's basically heaven on a plate. Plus, it's one of those magical dishes that makes everyone think you spent hours in the kitchen when it's actually super quick!
Timing
- Prep time: 10 minutes
- Cook time: 20 minutes
- Total time: 30 minutes
Ingredients
- 1 pound fettuccine (or any pasta you've got hiding in your pantry)
- 8 slices thick-cut bacon, chopped (turkey bacon works too, but like... why?)
- 4 cups fresh broccoli florets (frozen works in a pinch - I won't judge)
- 2 cups heavy cream (half-and-half if we're being "good")
- 4 tablespoons butter (the real deal, please!)
- 4 cloves garlic, minced (or 6... I won't tell)
- 1½ cups freshly grated Parmesan (not the powder stuff, trust me)
- ½ teaspoon black pepper (freshly cracked if you're fancy)
- Salt to taste (I usually go with about 1 teaspoon)
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1
Bring a large pot of water to boil - you want it dancing like it's at a party. Add a generous pinch of salt (it should taste like the ocean, as my Italian grandma always said, though technically she wasn't Italian). Cook pasta according to package directions minus 1 minute. We want it al dente, people!
Step 2
While the pasta's doing its thing, cook the bacon in a large skillet until it's crispy - about 5-7 minutes. The kitchen will smell AMAZING. Remove bacon with a slotted spoon and try not to eat it all while cooking (I always fail at this part lol).
Step 3
In the same skillet (hello, bacon flavor!), throw in your broccoli florets. Cook them for about 4 minutes until they're bright green and still have some bite. Remove and set aside with your bacon (if there's any left 😉).
Step 4
Now for the good stuff! Lower the heat and add butter and garlic to the pan. Once the garlic gets all fragrant - like 30 seconds max - pour in that heavy cream. creamy Alfredo pasta with bacon and broccoli Let it bubble away gently while stirring occasionally. This is where magic happens!
Healthier Alternatives
Look, I've tried making this healthier about a million different ways (my New Year's resolution is still hanging on by a thread). You can use whole wheat pasta, swap the cream for
