What type of pasta works best for this dish?

Short, twisted pastas like fusilli hold the sauce well, capturing the flavors of bacon and mushrooms effectively.

Can I substitute the bacon for a different ingredient?

Yes, pancetta can be used for a similar smoky flavor, or omit meat entirely and add extra mushrooms or zucchini for a vegetarian option.

Cook mushrooms over medium heat without overcrowding the pan to allow them to brown nicely while releasing less moisture.

Yes, reserved pasta water helps to emulsify the sauce and keep it glossy while helping it cling to the fusilli.

Grated Parmesan adds a savory, nutty richness that complements the smoky bacon and earthy mushrooms perfectly.

A flavorful, quick pasta dish featuring crispy bacon, sweet onions, and earthy mushrooms tossed with tender fusilli for a comforting weeknight meal.

I first enjoyed this dish on a busy weeknight and was amazed at how fast and satisfying it was to prepare.

Pasta: 350 g (12 oz) fusilli
Meats: 150 g (5 oz) smoked bacon, diced
Vegetables: 1 large yellow onion, thinly sliced, 250 g (9 oz) cremini or white mushrooms, cleaned and sliced, 2 cloves garlic, minced
Dairy: 2 tbsp unsalted butter, 30 g (1/4 cup) grated Parmesan cheese, plus extra for serving
Pantry & Seasoning: 2 tbsp olive oil, salt, to taste, freshly ground black pepper, to taste, 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped (optional)

Step 1:: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook fusilli according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1/2 cup pasta water, then drain.
Step 2:: While pasta is cooking, heat olive oil and butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Add diced bacon and cook until golden and crisp, about 4 minutes.
Step 3:: Add onions to the skillet and sauté until softened and translucent, about 3 minutes.
Step 4:: Stir in mushrooms and cook, stirring occasionally, until softened and lightly browned, about 4 minutes. Add garlic and cook for 30 seconds.
Step 5:: Add drained fusilli to the skillet along with reserved pasta water. Toss everything together, scraping up any browned bits from the pan.
Step 6:: Stir in Parmesan cheese, season with salt and pepper, and cook for 1 2 minutes until pasta is well coated and glossy.
Step 7:: Serve hot, sprinkled with chopped parsley and extra Parmesan if desired.

This recipe is a staple on our family table bringing warmth and satisfying smiles every time.

Large pot, large skillet, chef s knife, cutting board, colander, wooden spoon

Contains wheat (pasta), milk (butter Parmesan), pork (bacon). Check labels when substituting ingredients.

Per serving: 470 calories, 20 g total fat, 54 g carbohydrates, 18 g protein.

This fusilli dish balances hearty flavors and simple preparation making it a perfect weeknight favorite.

→ What type of pasta works best for this dish?: Short, twisted pastas like fusilli hold the sauce well, capturing the flavors of bacon and mushrooms effectively.
→ Can I substitute the bacon for a different ingredient?: Yes, pancetta can be used for a similar smoky flavor, or omit meat entirely and add extra mushrooms or zucchini for a vegetarian option.
→ How do I avoid soggy mushrooms in the dish?: Cook mushrooms over medium heat without overcrowding the pan to allow them to brown nicely while releasing less moisture.
→ Is it necessary to reserve pasta water when preparing this dish?: Yes, reserved pasta water helps to emulsify the sauce and keep it glossy while helping it cling to the fusilli.
→ What cheese pairs best with this combination?: Grated Parmesan adds a savory, nutty richness that complements the smoky bacon and earthy mushrooms perfectly.