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Pumpkin & Mushroom Spaghetti with Crispy Bacon

Creamy Pumpkin & Mushroom Spaghetti with Crispy Bacon Bliss

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This Creamy Pumpkin & Mushroom Spaghetti with Crispy Bacon is a delightful fall favorite, bringing comfort and warmth to your table.
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: Italian
Calories: 550

Ingredients
  

For the Pasta
  • 12 oz Spaghetti Use whole wheat or gluten-free if preferred.
For the Sauce
  • 6 oz Thick-cut Bacon Use turkey bacon or a vegetarian option if preferred.
  • 2 tbsp Olive Oil Skip if using bacon drippings.
  • 2 cups Mushrooms (sliced) Any variety like button or cremini works well.
  • 2 cloves Garlic (minced) Fresh is best, garlic powder can be used in a pinch.
  • 1 cup Canned Pumpkin Puree Fresh roasted pumpkin can be used instead.
  • 0.5 tsp Dried Thyme Substitute with fresh thyme if desired.
  • 0.5 tsp Smoked Paprika Regular paprika works if less smokiness is preferred.
  • 0.25 tsp Nutmeg (optional) Skip if you're not a fan.
  • Salt and Pepper to taste Adjust to your preference.
  • 0.5 cup Heavy Cream Use plant-based cream for dairy-free option.
  • 0.5 cup Parmesan Cheese (grated) Nutritional yeast can substitute for a vegan option.
  • Fresh Parsley (for garnish) Optional but recommended for color.

Equipment

  • large pot
  • Large skillet
  • cutting board
  • knife

Method
 

Directions
  1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add spaghetti and cook according to package directions until al dente, about 8–10 minutes. Reserve ½ cup of pasta water for later use, drain and set the pasta aside in a bowl.
  2. In a large skillet, heat medium and add thick-cut bacon. Cook for about 5–7 minutes until crispy. Transfer bacon to a paper towel-lined plate, leaving about 1 tablespoon of bacon fat in the skillet.
  3. In the same skillet, add sliced mushrooms and sauté on medium-high heat for 5–7 minutes until browned and tender.
  4. Add minced garlic to the skillet and sauté for 1 minute until fragrant. Stir in canned pumpkin puree, dried thyme, smoked paprika, and a pinch of salt and pepper.
  5. Pour in heavy cream and add grated Parmesan cheese. Stir gently and let simmer on low heat for 2–3 minutes until the sauce thickens slightly.
  6. Add the cooked spaghetti to the sauce, tossing to coat. If the sauce is too thick, gradually add reserved pasta water.
  7. Serve the spaghetti on warm plates, topping with crumbled crispy bacon, fresh parsley, and extra grated Parmesan.

Nutrition

Serving: 1plateCalories: 550kcalCarbohydrates: 65gProtein: 22gFat: 25gSaturated Fat: 10gPolyunsaturated Fat: 5gMonounsaturated Fat: 8gCholesterol: 60mgSodium: 850mgPotassium: 650mgFiber: 4gSugar: 5gVitamin A: 800IUVitamin C: 5mgCalcium: 200mgIron: 2mg

Notes

Pair with garlic bread or a fresh salad for a complete meal.

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