Fusilli with Bacon Onions

A comforting, flavorful pasta dish featuring crispy bacon, sautéed onions, and earthy mushrooms in a savory sauce—perfect for a quick weeknight dinner.

I first served this to my family on a busy weeknight and it quickly became a staple in our dinner rotation.

Ingredients

• Pasta: 400 g (14 oz) fusilli pasta
• Meats: 150 g (5 oz) smoked bacon, diced
• Vegetables: 1 large yellow onion, finely sliced, 250 g (9 oz) cremini or button mushrooms, cleaned and sliced, 2 cloves garlic, minced, 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (plus extra for garnish)
• Sauces & Seasonings: 2 tablespoons olive oil, 50 ml (3 tbsp) dry white wine (optional), Sea salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste, Grated Parmesan cheese, for serving (optional)

Instructions

Step 1:

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook fusilli according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve ½ cup pasta cooking water, then drain.

Step 2:

Meanwhile, in a large skillet over medium heat, add olive oil and bacon. Cook for 4 5 minutes until bacon is golden and crisp.

Step 3:

Add onions to the pan and sauté for 3 4 minutes until softened.

Step 4:

Stir in mushrooms and cook for another 5 6 minutes until they release their moisture and start to brown.

Step 5:

Add garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.

Step 6:

Deglaze with white wine (if using), stirring to loosen any browned bits from the bottom of the skillet. Let it reduce for 1 2 minutes.

Step 7:

Add drained fusilli to the skillet along with reserved pasta water. Toss everything together over medium heat for 2 3 minutes, allowing the sauce to coat the pasta.

Step 8:

Season with salt and pepper. Stir in chopped parsley.

Step 9:

Serve immediately, garnished with extra parsley and grated Parmesan if desired.

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This dish always brings my family together around the table, sharing stories and laughter.

Notes

Substitute smoked turkey or vegetarian bacon for a lighter or meat-free version. Add a splash of cream for a richer sauce. Pair with a crisp Pinot Grigio or light-bodied red wine.

Required Tools

Large pot, Large skillet or sauté pan, Colander, Wooden spoon

Nutritional Information

Calories 510, Total Fat 19 g, Carbohydrates 65 g, Protein 19 g

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This recipe is quick and satisfying, perfect to impress any pasta lover.

Recipe FAQs

→ Can I substitute the bacon with another ingredient?

Yes, smoked turkey or vegetarian bacon alternatives work well to adjust flavor or accommodate dietary preferences.

→ Is white wine necessary for this dish?

White wine is optional but adds a subtle acidity that brightens the sauce. You may omit or replace it with broth if preferred.

→ How do I prevent the pasta from drying out?

Reserve some pasta cooking water before draining and add it to the skillet to help the sauce cling and keep the pasta moist.

→ What type of mushrooms is best to use?

Cremini or button mushrooms provide a nice earthy flavor and texture that complements the other ingredients well.

→ Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?

For best texture, cook and combine just before serving, but components like sautéed bacon and vegetables can be prepared in advance.