Can I substitute bacon with a vegetarian alternative?

Yes, you can omit bacon and add extra mushrooms or sautéed zucchini for a vegetarian-friendly version without losing flavor.

How do I keep the pasta from drying out?

Reserve some pasta cooking water to add while tossing the ingredients. This starchy water helps create a light, cohesive sauce.

Grated Parmesan adds a savory, salty finish that complements the bacon and mushrooms beautifully.

Cook bacon first until crispy, then sauté onions and mushrooms in the rendered fat for maximum flavor before combining with pasta.

A crisp white wine like Pinot Grigio balances the savory richness of the bacon and mushrooms nicely.

A hearty, budget-friendly pasta dish featuring crispy bacon, sautéed onions, and earthy mushrooms tossed with fusilli in a light, savory sauce.

This fusilli recipe was a weeknight favorite in my college days. Its simplicity meant I could whip up something delicious even after a long day.

Cook pasta:: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add fusilli and cook until al dente. Reserve 1/2 cup pasta water, then drain.
Crisp bacon:: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add diced bacon and cook until crispy, about 5 minutes. Remove with a slotted spoon and set aside, keeping fat in the pan.
Sauté vegetables:: Add onion to the pan and sauté until translucent, about 3 minutes. Stir in mushrooms and cook until browned and tender, about 5 minutes.
Add garlic:: Add minced garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
Combine ingredients:: Return bacon to the skillet. Add drained fusilli, toss well to combine. If dry, add a splash of reserved pasta water.
Finish:: Stir in Parmesan cheese and parsley. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve immediately with extra Parmesan if desired.

My kids always ask for seconds when I make this pasta, and they love helping sprinkle the extra Parmesan at the table.

Large pot, large skillet, slotted spoon, knife, and cutting board

Omit bacon for a vegetarian twist, or swap in smoked pancetta for a richer flavor. Pairs well with a crisp Pinot Grigio.

Calories: 460, Total Fat: 18 g, Carbohydrates: 56 g, Protein: 17 g (per serving)

Enjoy this fuss-free pasta for any busy night. The savory bacon and mushrooms make every bite comforting.

→ Can I substitute bacon with a vegetarian alternative?: Yes, you can omit bacon and add extra mushrooms or sautéed zucchini for a vegetarian-friendly version without losing flavor.
→ How do I keep the pasta from drying out?: Reserve some pasta cooking water to add while tossing the ingredients. This starchy water helps create a light, cohesive sauce.
→ What cheese works best to finish the dish?: Grated Parmesan adds a savory, salty finish that complements the bacon and mushrooms beautifully.
→ Is there a preferred cooking sequence for the ingredients?: Cook bacon first until crispy, then sauté onions and mushrooms in the rendered fat for maximum flavor before combining with pasta.
→ What wine pairs well with this dish?: A crisp white wine like Pinot Grigio balances the savory richness of the bacon and mushrooms nicely.