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Pumpkin & Mushroom Spaghetti with Crispy Bacon

Pumpkin & Mushroom Spaghetti with Crispy Bacon Comfort Bowl

Delight in the seasonal flavors of pumpkin, earthy mushrooms, and crispy bacon in this comforting spaghetti dish, perfect for autumn.
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: PASTA
Cuisine: Italian
Calories: 500

Ingredients
  

For the Pasta
  • 12 oz Spaghetti Opt for whole wheat or gluten-free for dietary needs.
For the Protein
  • 6 slices Thick-Cut Bacon Swap for turkey bacon or skip for a plant-based meal.
For the Sauce
  • 2 tablespoons Olive Oil Optional, adjust based on how much bacon fat you have.
  • 2 cups Mushrooms, sliced Use your favorite variety.
  • 2 cloves Garlic, minced Avoid burning to retain flavor.
  • 1 cup Canned Pumpkin Puree Fresh roasted pumpkin would also work.
  • 1/2 teaspoon Dried Thyme Easily swap for sage.
  • 1/2 teaspoon Smoked Paprika Optional if not available.
  • 1/4 teaspoon Nutmeg Optional for enhancing autumn flavor.
  • Salt and Pepper to taste Essential for seasoning.
  • 1/2 cup Heavy Cream Lighter options available with plant-based creams.
  • 1/2 cup Grated Parmesan Cheese Nutritional yeast works for a vegan version.
For Garnishing
  • Fresh Parsley, chopped Provides a vibrant finish.

Equipment

  • large skillet
  • Pot for boiling pasta

Method
 

Preparation Steps
  1. Cook spaghetti according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1/2 cup of pasta water for later.
  2. In a large skillet, cook bacon slices over medium heat until crispy. Crumble and set aside.
  3. In the same skillet, use bacon grease (add olive oil if needed) to sauté sliced mushrooms for 5-7 minutes until browned.
  4. Add minced garlic and cook for another minute until aromatic.
  5. Stir in pumpkin puree, dried thyme, smoked paprika, nutmeg, salt, and pepper. Pour in heavy cream and Parmesan, simmer for 2-3 minutes.
  6. Toss cooked spaghetti into the pumpkin sauce, using reserved pasta water to adjust consistency.
  7. Serve topped with crumbled bacon, chopped parsley, and extra Parmesan if desired.

Nutrition

Serving: 1servingCalories: 500kcalCarbohydrates: 60gProtein: 20gFat: 20gSaturated Fat: 10gPolyunsaturated Fat: 2gMonounsaturated Fat: 8gCholesterol: 40mgSodium: 800mgPotassium: 900mgFiber: 5gSugar: 3gVitamin A: 5000IUVitamin C: 5mgCalcium: 200mgIron: 2mg

Notes

Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days. Freeze for up to 3 months. Reheat with a splash of water or cream to restore creaminess.

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