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When it comes to comfort food that tantalizes the taste buds while also being versatile enough for any occasion, Creamy Avocado and Bacon Penne stands out as a favorite. This dish marries the smooth, buttery texture of ripe avocados with the savory crunch of crispy bacon, creating a delightful fusion that is both satisfying and indulgent. Whether you’re whipping it up for a quick weeknight dinner or serving it at a gathering, this penne pasta recipe is sure to impress.

Creamy Avocado and Bacon Penne

Discover the ultimate comfort food with this Creamy Avocado and Bacon Penne recipe. Enjoy the luscious combination of ripe avocados and crispy bacon, creating a rich and satisfying dish perfect for any occasion. This easy-to-follow recipe allows for personal touches, so feel free to customize it to suit your tastes. With its balance of creamy textures and savory flavors, it's sure to impress at weeknight dinners or gatherings. Dive into indulgence!
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Ingredients
  

12 oz penne pasta

2 ripe avocados, pitted and scooped

4 strips of bacon, chopped into small pieces

1/2 cup heavy cream

1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese, plus extra for serving

2 cloves garlic, minced

1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)

Juice of 1 fresh lime

Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste

Fresh basil leaves, for garnish

Cherry tomatoes, halved (optional, for freshness)

Instructions
 

Cook the Pasta: In a large pot, bring salted water to a rolling boil. Add the penne pasta and cook according to the package instructions until al dente (about 10-12 minutes). Once cooked, drain the pasta, but reserve about 1/2 cup of the pasta water for later use. Set the drained pasta aside.

    Cook the Bacon: Heat a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped bacon and cook until it's crispy and golden brown, which should take about 5-7 minutes. Once crispy, use a slotted spoon to transfer the bacon to a plate lined with paper towels to absorb any excess grease, leaving the rendered bacon fat in the skillet.

      Prepare the Avocado Sauce: In a blender or food processor, combine the scooped avocados, heavy cream, grated Parmesan cheese, minced garlic, lime juice, red pepper flakes (if using), and a generous pinch of salt and freshly ground black pepper. Blend until the mixture is completely smooth and creamy. Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary.

        Combine Ingredients: Return the skillet with the bacon drippings back to low heat. Add the cooked penne pasta to the skillet and toss it gently in the bacon fat, allowing the pasta to soak up the flavors. Then pour in the creamy avocado sauce, and mix well to combine everything. If the sauce appears too thick, gradually add a little reserved pasta water until you achieve your desired creamy consistency.

          Add Bacon: Gently fold in the crispy bacon pieces, and season the dish to taste with additional salt and pepper if desired. If you opted for cherry tomatoes, stir them in now for an additional burst of color and flavor.

            Serve: Dish out the creamy avocado and bacon penne onto plates or into bowls. Garnish with freshly torn basil leaves and a sprinkle of extra Parmesan cheese. Enjoy your delightful creation!

              Prep Time: 10 minutes | Total Time: 30 minutes | Servings: 4

                - Presentation Tips: For an elegant touch, serve in shallow bowls, arrange the cherry tomato halves on top, and drizzle a little olive oil around the edges before garnishing with basil.