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Chipotle Bacon Alfredo Recipe
Ash Tyrrell

Chipotle Bacon Alfredo Recipe

If you’re seeking a pasta dish that combines creamy indulgence with a smoky, spicy kick, this Chipotle Bacon Alfredo checks all the boxes. I gave this recipe a go last weekend, and it was an instant favorite!
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 25 minutes
Total Time 35 minutes
Course: Main Course
Calories: 560

Ingredients
  

  • 1 lb mafaldine or fettuccine pasta
  • Pro Tip: Mafaldine’s ribbon-like edges soak up sauces perfectly but fettuccine also works beautifully.
  • 1 medium yellow onion diced
  • Adds a slightly sweet aromatic base for the sauce.
  • 3 cloves garlic minced
  • Nothing beats fresh garlic for a punch of flavor.
  • A small bunch of parsley finely chopped
  • Removes stems for a fresh herby finish.
  • 1 pack diced bacon
  • Opt for thick-cut bacon for a chewy texture or pancetta for an Italian twist.
  • 1 1/3 cups half and half
  • Creates a balance between creaminess and lightness.
  • 1 cup sour cream
  • Smoothens the sauce while mellowing the heat from the chipotle.
  • 1 7 oz can of chipotles in adobo sauce
  • Smoky spicy, and the star ingredient of this dish!
  • 1 tablespoon chicken bouillon
  • Intensifies the umami in the sauce.
  • ½ teaspoon each of salt and black pepper
  • Adjust based on your taste preference.
  • ½ cup reserved pasta water
  • Helps emulsify the sauce for a silky finish.
  • cup freshly grated parmesan cheese
  • Pro Tip: Always grate your cheese fresh; pre-shredded cheese doesn’t melt as smoothly.
  • ½ cup shredded Mexican cheese mix
  • Adds an extra level of gooey goodness.

Method
 

  1. Start by adding diced bacon to a large skillet over medium-low heat. Cook until it’s golden and crispy, stirring occasionally to ensure even cooking. Transfer the crispy bacon to a paper towel-lined plate, setting aside the rendered grease.
  2. While the bacon sizzles, create the sauce in your blender. Combine half and half, sour cream, chipotles in adobo, chicken bouillon, and a dash of salt and pepper. Blend until smooth. If you prefer a thinner sauce, add an extra splash of half and half.
  3. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil, then add your pasta. Cook it to al dente, according to the package instructions. Scoop out half a cup of pasta water before draining the rest.
  4. Remove the excess bacon grease from the skillet, leaving behind about two tablespoons. Throw in the diced onion and garlic and sauté until fragrant. Add the chopped parsley and stir for another minute or two.
  5. Pour the blended chipotle sauce into the skillet with the aromatics. Stir to combine, then toss in the grated parmesan and shredded cheese. Stir until melted and smooth. Add the pasta and reserved pasta water to the skillet, tossing to coat everything evenly. Fold in most of the bacon, leaving some for garnish.
  6. Plate the pasta immediately, topping with the reserved bacon and extra parsley for those final touches. Enjoy!

Notes

  • Blend the sauce well to ensure an even consistency without little chunks of chipotle.
  • Reserve extra pasta water just in case the dish thickens too much as you toss the pasta.
  • Don’t overcook the pasta, as it will cook slightly more once combined with the hot sauce.
  • Serve right away to fully enjoy the creamy, velvety goodness of the fresh sauce.