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There is something truly irresistible about a pasta dish that balances crispiness, creaminess, and bright flavors all in one bowl. The Crispy Bacon Linguine with Garlic, Parmesan, and Lemon Zest Recipe does exactly that, bringing together perfectly cooked linguine, golden crispy bacon, fragrant garlic, sharp Parmesan, and a hint of lemon zest for an Italian-inspired meal that feels both comforting and sophisticated. It’s a quick and easy dinner that bursts with flavor and texture in every bite, making it one of my absolute favorites to share with friends and family.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This recipe calls for simple, pantry-friendly ingredients that each play an essential role in building layers of flavor and texture. From the salty crunch of bacon to the fresh brightness of lemon zest, every component shines through and complements the rest beautifully.
- 14 oz linguine: The perfect pasta shape to hold onto sauce and bacon bits in every forkful.
- Salt: Essential for seasoning the pasta water and enhancing overall flavor.
- 7 oz diced bacon: Delivers that irresistible crispy, smoky note.
- 2 tbsp olive oil: Helps fry the bacon evenly and adds a silky mouthfeel.
- 3 cloves garlic, finely chopped: Infuses the dish with aromatic warmth.
- 1/2 tsp freshly ground black pepper: Adds a subtle, peppery kick to brighten the flavors.
- 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes (optional): For a touch of heat if you like it spicy.
- 1/2 cup reserved pasta cooking water: Creates a luscious sauce when combined with the pasta and cheese.
- 1.4 oz grated Parmesan cheese (plus extra for serving): Melts into the sauce, giving it depth and richness.
- 2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley: Adds a pop of color and fresh, herbaceous notes.
- Zest of 1/2 lemon (optional): Brings a bright, citrusy lift that balances the richness.
How to Make Crispy Bacon Linguine with Garlic, Parmesan, and Lemon Zest Recipe
Step 1: Cook Linguine
Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. The salt is crucial here—it seasons the pasta from within, enhancing every bite. Cook the linguine just until al dente, following the package directions carefully so the noodles retain a slight bite and don’t turn mushy. Before draining, be sure to save 1/2 cup of the pasta water; this starchy water is going to help form that silky, glossy sauce that ties the whole dish together.
Step 2: Fry Bacon
Next, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the diced bacon and cook it, stirring occasionally, until it’s beautifully crispy and golden. This usually takes about 6 to 8 minutes. The combination of olive oil and bacon fat creates a perfectly flavored base and prevents any sticking or burning.
Step 3: Sauté Garlic and Spices
Once the bacon has crisped up, turn the heat down to low. Add the finely chopped garlic to the skillet along with freshly ground black pepper and red pepper flakes if you’ve chosen to include them. Stir for just about one minute—enough to release that fragrant aroma without letting the garlic brown or burn. This gentle sauté adds a warm, aromatic complexity to the dish.
Step 4: Combine Pasta and Sauce
Now it’s time to bring everything together. Add the drained linguine directly into the skillet with the bacon and garlic mixture. Pour in about 1/4 cup of the reserved pasta water and toss everything to coat evenly. You want to add just enough pasta water to create a light, glossy sauce that clings to each strand of linguine. Feel free to add more water if needed for that perfect creamy consistency.
Step 5: Add Cheese and Finish
Remove the skillet from heat and stir in the grated Parmesan cheese. As it melts, it transforms the sauce into a silky, indulgent coating for the pasta. Then mix in chopped fresh parsley for a fresh burst of color and flavor. If you love a citrusy zing, fold in the zest of half a lemon at this point—it brightens the entire dish with a subtle but delightful lift.
How to Serve Crispy Bacon Linguine with Garlic, Parmesan, and Lemon Zest Recipe
Garnishes
Serving this linguine with additional Parmesan sprinkled on top is a must—it melts slightly on the warm pasta and adds an extra layer of cheesiness. A crack of fresh black pepper or some finely chopped parsley can add a touch of elegance and freshness right before you dig in.
Side Dishes
This dish pairs wonderfully with a simple green salad dressed with lemon vinaigrette or a side of steamed vegetables to add a refreshing crunch. Garlic bread or crusty Italian bread are also fantastic companions, perfect for soaking up any leftover sauce on the plate.
Creative Ways to Present
For a more festive occasion, consider serving the linguine in individual pasta bowls topped with edible flowers or microgreens for a beautiful pop of color. Alternatively, you can toss the dish in a large wooden bowl and let everyone serve themselves, sharing the joy of sinking forks into this incredibly flavorful Crispy Bacon Linguine with Garlic, Parmesan, and Lemon Zest Recipe.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. The flavors continue to meld, but make sure to keep the pasta separate from very wet ingredients to avoid sogginess.
Freezing
Freezing this dish is not ideal because the texture of both the bacon and pasta can change after thawing. However, if you must freeze, place it in a freezer-safe container and consume within 1 month for best quality. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating gently.
Reheating
To reheat, toss the linguine with a splash of water or a drizzle of olive oil in a warm skillet over medium-low heat. Stir constantly until warmed through to keep the sauce creamy and the bacon crispy. Avoid microwave reheating as it can make the pasta rubbery and the bacon chewy.
FAQs
Can I use another type of pasta for this recipe?
Absolutely! While linguine is classic here, fettuccine, spaghetti, or even bucatini can work beautifully. Just adjust cooking times accordingly to ensure the pasta stays al dente for perfect texture.
Is it necessary to reserve pasta water?
Yes! The reserved pasta water is key to transforming this dish from plain pasta and bacon into a silky, cohesive sauce. The starch in the water helps the cheese and oil cling to the noodles perfectly.
Can I make this recipe vegetarian?
The crispy bacon is central to the flavor profile, but for a vegetarian twist, try substituting with smoky smoked paprika roasted mushrooms or plant-based bacon alternatives to keep a bit of that savory punch.
What if I don’t have fresh lemon zest?
Fresh lemon zest adds a bright zing, but if you don’t have it on hand, a tiny splash of fresh lemon juice or a pinch of dried lemon peel can help replicate that citrus note.
How spicy is this dish if I add red pepper flakes?
The red pepper flakes add a gentle warmth without overwhelming heat. You can easily adjust the amount to suit your spice tolerance or leave them out entirely for a milder meal.
Final Thoughts
If you’re craving a dish that’s quick to pull together but packed with bold, comforting flavor, this Crispy Bacon Linguine with Garlic, Parmesan, and Lemon Zest Recipe will become your new go-to. It’s the kind of meal that feels both indulgent and fresh, ideal for weeknight dinners or impressing company without fuss. I can’t wait for you to try it and discover how these simple ingredients come alive in every delicious bite.
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Crispy Bacon Linguine with Garlic, Parmesan, and Lemon Zest Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Quick & Easy Dinners
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: Italian-inspired
Description
Crispy Bacon Linguine is a quick and easy Italian-inspired pasta dish featuring perfectly cooked linguine tossed with crispy bacon, fragrant garlic, Parmesan cheese, and a silky sauce made from reserved pasta water. Finished with fresh parsley and a hint of lemon zest, this flavorful dinner is ready in 25 minutes, ideal for busy weeknights or casual meals.
Ingredients
Pasta
- 14 oz linguine
- Salt, to season pasta water
Bacon & Sauce
- 7 oz diced bacon
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, finely chopped
- 1/2 tsp freshly ground black pepper
- 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
- 1/2 cup reserved pasta cooking water
Finishing Touches
- 1.4 oz grated Parmesan cheese (plus extra for serving)
- 2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley
- Zest of 1/2 lemon (optional)
Instructions
- Cook Linguine: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the linguine and cook until al dente according to package directions, usually about 9 to 11 minutes. Reserve 1/2 cup of the pasta cooking water, then drain the pasta well.
- Fry Bacon: While pasta cooks, heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the diced bacon and cook, stirring occasionally, until crispy and golden, about 6 to 8 minutes.
- Sauté Garlic and Spices: Reduce heat to low. Stir in the finely chopped garlic, freshly ground black pepper, and red pepper flakes if using. Sauté gently for about 1 minute until fragrant, being careful not to burn the garlic.
- Combine Pasta and Sauce: Add the drained linguine to the skillet with the bacon. Pour in 1/4 cup of the reserved pasta water and toss thoroughly to coat the pasta. Add more pasta water as needed to achieve a glossy, creamy sauce that clings to the noodles.
- Add Cheese and Finish: Remove the skillet from heat. Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese until it melts completely into the sauce, creating a silky texture. Mix in the chopped fresh parsley and lemon zest if desired for brightness.
- Serve: Plate the linguine immediately, topping with extra grated Parmesan and a sprinkle of freshly cracked black pepper. Enjoy while warm.
Notes
- Be careful not to burn the garlic when sautéing; cook on low heat and watch closely.
- Use reserved pasta water to adjust sauce consistency; the starch helps create a creamy texture without cream.
- Red pepper flakes are optional; omit if you prefer a milder dish.
- Freshly grated Parmesan yields better flavor and melts more smoothly than pre-grated cheese.
- If you want a stronger lemon flavor, add a little fresh lemon juice along with the zest.
