Creamy Chicken, Turkey Bacon & Spinach Pasta in Cheesy Garlic Sauce
Imagine walking into your kitchen, greeted by the warm and inviting aroma of garlic mingling with creamy parmesan. That’s exactly what you can expect when you whip up this delicious dish—Creamy Chicken, Turkey Bacon & Spinach Pasta in Cheesy Garlic Sauce. It’s a delightful fusion of flavors and textures that come together effortlessly, making it a perfect comfort meal for any occasion, whether it’s a cozy weeknight dinner or a lively family gathering.
The rich, creamy sauce envelops the tender pasta, while the spinach adds a vibrant green burst of freshness, and the turkey bacon contributes a satisfying crunch and smoky flavor. Each bite is a tender embrace of warmth, ideal for those chilly evenings or when you want to savor something truly indulgent without the hassle.
When to Enjoy This Recipe
This creamy pasta dish is your go-to meal for many occasions:
- Cozy Nights In: Perfect for snuggling up at home after a long day.
- Family Gatherings: A dish that brings everyone together at the dinner table, appealing to both adults and kids alike.
- Quick Meals: With a prep time of just 10 minutes, you can have a satisfying dinner ready on a busy weeknight.
Recipe Information
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Servings: 4
- Difficulty Level: Easy
Nutrition Information (Per Serving)
- Calories: 590
- Protein: 34g
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Fat: 28g
- Saturated Fat: 16g
- Cholesterol: 150mg
- Sodium: 800mg
Nutrition information is rounded and based on standard ingredients. This may vary based on substitutes used.
Why Make This Recipe
This Creamy Chicken, Turkey Bacon & Spinach Pasta is not just satisfying to eat; it also provides a comforting aroma that wraps you in warmth the moment it hits the stovetop. The melty parmesan and rich garlic create an irresistible cheesy sauce that enhances every bite of pasta. Plus, it’s simple enough to whip up on a weekend but special enough to serve at gatherings. It’s a recipe that speaks to the heart and the palate.
How to Make Creamy Chicken, Turkey Bacon & Spinach Pasta in Cheesy Garlic Sauce
Ingredients:
- 8 oz pasta of choice (penne, fettuccine, or spaghetti)
- 1 cup cooked chicken, diced
- 4 slices turkey bacon, cooked and crumbled
- 2 cups fresh spinach
- 2 cups heavy cream
- 1 cup grated parmesan cheese
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Olive oil for cooking
Instructions:
- Cook the pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
- In a large pan, heat a drizzle of olive oil over medium heat. Add minced garlic and cook until fragrant (about 30 seconds).
- Stir in the cooked chicken, turkey bacon, and fresh spinach. Cook until the spinach wilts (about 3-4 minutes).
- Pour in the heavy cream and bring to a simmer, allowing it to thicken slightly.
- Mix in the grated parmesan cheese, stirring until melted and well combined.
- Add the cooked pasta to the pan and toss everything together until the pasta is coated in the sauce. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Serve warm, garnished with additional parmesan if desired.
How to Serve
This dish is delightful served warm on its own, but you may wish to accompany it with a light side salad for freshness. For an extra touch, offer a side of garlic bread or breadsticks to complement the creamy sauce.
How to Store
- Room Temperature: This dish is best enjoyed fresh but can be left out for no more than 2 hours.
- Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
- Freezing: You can freeze this dish for up to 3 months, though the creamy texture may change slightly upon reheating. To reheat, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and warm gently in a pan or microwave.
Expert Tips
- Choose high-quality parmesan for the best flavor.
- Avoid overmixing the sauce after adding the pasta to maintain the creamy texture.
- For an added kick, consider sprinkling some red pepper flakes while stirring in the heavy cream.
Delicious Variations
- Vegan Version: Substitute the heavy cream for coconut cream and use a plant-based cheese alternative.
- Gluten-Free Option: Swap regular pasta for gluten-free pasta to accommodate dietary preferences.
Frequently Asked Questions
-
Can I use frozen ingredients?
Yes! You can use frozen spinach or pre-cooked chicken to save time, just be sure to thaw and drain excess moisture. -
What if I don’t have turkey bacon?
Regular bacon or pancetta can be substituted for additional flavor, or you can skip it entirely for a lighter version. -
Can I make this ahead of time?
While best served fresh, you can prep the ingredients a day in advance and store them in separate containers until you’re ready to cook.
Conclusion
This Creamy Chicken, Turkey Bacon & Spinach Pasta in Cheesy Garlic Sauce is sure to become a beloved meal in your household. Its satisfying flavor and creamy texture create a comforting dining experience perfect for any occasion. We’d love to hear how your version turns out! Please feel free to share your feedback or any personal twists you added to the recipe. Enjoy every delicious bite!
Print
Creamy Chicken, Turkey Bacon & Spinach Pasta in Cheesy Garlic Sauce
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Non-Vegetarian
Description
A delightful fusion of flavors combining creamy garlic sauce with chicken, turkey bacon, and spinach, perfect for cozy dinners or family gatherings.
Ingredients
- 8 oz pasta of choice (penne, fettuccine, or spaghetti)
- 1 cup cooked chicken, diced
- 4 slices turkey bacon, cooked and crumbled
- 2 cups fresh spinach
- 2 cups heavy cream
- 1 cup grated parmesan cheese
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Olive oil for cooking
Instructions
- Cook the pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
- In a large pan, heat a drizzle of olive oil over medium heat. Add minced garlic and cook until fragrant (about 30 seconds).
- Stir in the cooked chicken, turkey bacon, and fresh spinach. Cook until the spinach wilts (about 3-4 minutes).
- Pour in the heavy cream and bring to a simmer, allowing it to thicken slightly.
- Mix in the grated parmesan cheese, stirring until melted and well combined.
- Add the cooked pasta to the pan and toss everything together until the pasta is coated in the sauce. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Serve warm, garnished with additional parmesan if desired.
Notes
For a lighter version, you can skip the turkey bacon or use regular bacon for added flavor. Consider adding red pepper flakes for a spicy kick.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Sautéing
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 590
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 800mg
- Fat: 28g
- Saturated Fat: 16g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 34g
- Cholesterol: 150mg
