Are you looking for a pasta dish that combines the richness of bacon, the earthiness of mushrooms, and the unique taste of Brussels sprouts? Look no further! This Bacon, Brussels Sprouts, and Mushroom Linguine Pasta Recipe is perfect for a cozy dinner at home or an impressive meal for guests. With a harmonious blend of flavors and textures, this dish is sure to become a family favorite. The combination of crispy bacon, sautéed Brussels sprouts, and tender mushrooms, all tossed in a creamy sauce with perfectly cooked linguine, makes for a satisfying and delicious meal. Let’s dive into this delightful recipe that is both easy to make and sure to impress.
Ingredients for Bacon, Brussels Sprouts, and Mushroom Linguine Pasta
For the Pasta:
- 12 ounces of linguine pasta
- 1 tablespoon of salt
- 1 tablespoon of olive oil
For the Sauce and Toppings:
- 6 slices of thick-cut bacon, diced
- 1 pound of Brussels sprouts, trimmed and halved
- 8 ounces of cremini mushrooms, sliced
- 4 cloves of garlic, minced
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 1 cup of heavy cream
- 1/2 cup of grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon of dried thyme
- 1/2 teaspoon of red pepper flakes (optional, for a bit of heat)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 2 tablespoons of olive oil
- Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish
How to Make Bacon, Brussels Sprouts, and Mushroom Linguine Pasta
Step 1: Cook the Linguine
- Bring a large pot of water to a boil. Add 1 tablespoon of salt to the boiling water.
- Add the linguine pasta to the boiling water and cook according to the package instructions until al dente.
- Drain the pasta, reserving 1 cup of pasta water, and set aside. Drizzle the pasta with 1 tablespoon of olive oil to prevent it from sticking together.
Step 2: Prepare the Sauce Ingredients
- In a large skillet, cook the diced bacon over medium heat until crispy. Remove the bacon with a slotted spoon and set it aside on a paper towel-lined plate to drain.
- In the same skillet, add the Brussels sprouts, cut side down, and cook for about 5-7 minutes, until they are caramelized and tender. Remove the Brussels sprouts from the skillet and set them aside.
- Add the sliced mushrooms to the skillet and sauté for about 5 minutes until they release their moisture and begin to brown. Remove the mushrooms and set them aside with the Brussels sprouts.
Step 3: Sauté the Aromatics
- In the same skillet, add 2 tablespoons of olive oil. Add the finely chopped onion and cook until it becomes translucent, about 3 minutes.
- Add the minced garlic and cook for another 1-2 minutes, until fragrant.
Step 4: Make the Creamy Sauce
- Pour the heavy cream into the skillet with the onions and garlic. Stir to combine.
- Add the grated Parmesan cheese, dried thyme, and red pepper flakes (if using). Stir until the cheese is melted and the sauce is smooth.
- Season the sauce with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste.
Step 5: Combine All Ingredients
- Return the cooked bacon, Brussels sprouts, and mushrooms to the skillet. Toss to coat them in the creamy sauce.
- Add the cooked linguine to the skillet and toss everything together until well combined. If the sauce is too thick, add a bit of the reserved pasta water until you reach your desired consistency.
Step 6: Serve the Pasta
- Divide the Bacon, Brussels Sprouts, and Mushroom Linguine Pasta among serving plates.
- Garnish with chopped fresh parsley and extra grated Parmesan cheese, if desired.
- Serve immediately and enjoy!
About the Main Ingredients
Bacon
Bacon adds a smoky, salty flavor that enhances the overall taste of the dish. The crispy texture of the bacon provides a delightful contrast to the soft linguine and vegetables. When choosing bacon, opt for thick-cut slices to ensure a hearty bite. The rendered bacon fat also serves as a flavorful base for sautéing the Brussels sprouts and mushrooms, infusing the dish with additional depth and richness.
Brussels Sprouts
Brussels sprouts are often overlooked, but they are incredibly nutritious and flavorful when cooked properly. In this recipe, they are caramelized to bring out their natural sweetness and nuttiness. Brussels sprouts are a great source of vitamins C and K, fiber, and antioxidants, making them a healthy addition to this pasta dish. When sautéed, they develop a lovely crispy texture on the outside while remaining tender on the inside.
Mushrooms
Mushrooms, particularly cremini mushrooms, add an earthy, umami flavor that complements the bacon and Brussels sprouts perfectly. They also have a meaty texture, making them a satisfying ingredient in this vegetarian-friendly pasta dish. Mushrooms are low in calories but high in essential nutrients such as B vitamins, selenium, and potassium. Their ability to absorb flavors from the other ingredients enhances the overall taste profile of the dish.
Linguine Pasta
Linguine, a type of pasta that is wider than spaghetti but narrower than fettuccine, is ideal for creamy sauces as it holds the sauce well without becoming too heavy. The linguine in this recipe is cooked al dente, providing the perfect texture to balance the creamy sauce and the hearty ingredients. Linguine is versatile and pairs well with a variety of sauces, making it a staple in many pasta recipes.
Heavy Cream and Parmesan Cheese
The heavy cream and Parmesan cheese create a rich and creamy sauce that ties all the ingredients together. The cream adds a smooth, luxurious texture, while the Parmesan cheese provides a sharp, salty flavor that enhances the taste of the dish. The combination of these ingredients results in a sauce that is both indulgent and comforting.
This Bacon, Brussels Sprouts, and Mushroom Linguine Pasta Recipe is a delightful and satisfying dish that combines the best of savory, smoky, and earthy flavors. The crispy bacon, caramelized Brussels sprouts, and tender mushrooms come together in a creamy Parmesan sauce that coats every strand of linguine perfectly. This recipe is not only delicious but also easy to prepare, making it a great option for weeknight dinners or special occasions. Enjoy this pasta with a side salad and a glass of white wine for a complete and memorable meal.
