Let’s look into the world of comfort food with a dish that’s become a favorite in my kitchen — Creamy Bacon Alfredo Pasta with a Smoky Twist. This recipe is perfect for those evenings when you crave something hearty yet indulgent. I promise, this creamy pasta will leave you longing for more!

To begin, gather the following ingredients:

• 8 ounces of fettuccine pasta
• 6 slices of thick-cut bacon
• 2 cups heavy cream
• 1 cup of grated Parmesan cheese
• 2 cloves of garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Once you’ve got everything ready, let’s start cooking!

1. First, I bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and add the fettuccine pasta. I cook it according to the package instructions, usually around 8-10 minutes until it’s al dente. While that’s cooking, I like to get my bacon ready.

2. In a large skillet over medium heat, I cook the bacon until it’s crispy, which usually takes about 5-7 minutes. The fat from the bacon is key to giving the dish its incredible flavor, so I make sure to save about 2 tablespoons of the rendered bacon fat in the skillet. Once the bacon is crispy, I remove it, chop it into bite-sized pieces, and set it aside.

3. In the same skillet, I lower the heat slightly and add the minced garlic. Sauté the garlic for about a minute until it’s fragrant, being careful not to burn it. Following that, I pour in the heavy cream and stir well, allowing the mixture to heat through.

4. Next, I add the smoked paprika, which gives the dish its delightful smoky flavor. I mix this in along with the grated Parmesan cheese and season with salt and pepper. I continue to stir until the cheese has melted and the sauce has thickened, which takes about 2-3 minutes.

5. Once the pasta is cooked, I drain it and add it directly to the skillet, tossing it in the creamy sauce until it’s fully coated. To finish off, I fold in the cooked bacon pieces, ensuring every bite is packed with flavor.

6. I serve the Creamy Bacon Alfredo Pasta hot, garnished with freshly chopped parsley for a pop of color and added flavor. If you want to take it up a notch, you can even sprinkle a bit more grated Parmesan on top.

This dish not only satisfies my craving for creamy pasta but also offers a delicious smoky twist that elevates the entire meal. I hope you enjoy making this as much as I do, and that it brings warmth and joy to your table!