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Creamy Ranch Bacon Penne Pasta

This Creamy Ranch Bacon Penne Pasta is a quick, comforting meal loaded with smoky turkey bacon, tangy ranch, and rich cream sauce.
Prep Time10 minutes
Cook Time15 minutes
Total Time25 minutes
Servings: 4 servings

Ingredients

  • 8 ounces penne pasta the perfect pasta shape to hold onto the creamy sauce
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil for sautéing and adding a subtle fruity note
  • 1 pound turkey bacon chopped, provides a smoky, savory crunch with less fat
  • 1 cup heavy cream creates the rich, velvety base of the sauce
  • 1/2 cup ranch dressing adds tanginess and herb flavor
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese brings saltiness and depth to the creamy sauce
  • 1 cup cherry tomatoes halved, adds freshness, color, and a juicy pop
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder enhances overall flavor with a gentle garlic punch
  • to taste salt and pepper to season perfectly
  • 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley for garnish, brightens the dish with a fresh, herbaceous finish

Instructions

  • Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the penne pasta and cook until al dente according to package instructions, usually about 10-12 minutes. Drain the pasta and set it aside, reserving about ½ cup of pasta water for later.
  • While the pasta cooks, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped turkey bacon and cook for 6-8 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it’s golden brown and slightly crispy. Remove some of the excess fat if the pan feels too oily, but leave enough to flavor the sauce.
  • Lower the heat to medium-low. Pour in 1 cup of heavy cream and ½ cup of ranch dressing directly into the skillet with the bacon. Stir to combine, then sprinkle in the garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Let the sauce gently simmer for 3-4 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld and the sauce to thicken slightly.
  • Add the cooked penne pasta to the skillet along with the halved cherry tomatoes. Toss everything together until the pasta is fully coated in the creamy ranch sauce. If the sauce feels too thick, stir in a splash of the reserved pasta water to loosen it up and create a silky texture.
  • Sprinkle ½ cup of grated Parmesan cheese over the pasta, stirring to melt it evenly throughout the dish. Taste and adjust seasoning with additional salt and pepper if needed. Finally, garnish with ¼ cup of chopped fresh parsley to add a vibrant, fresh note.
  • Serve your Creamy Ranch Bacon Penne Pasta hot, paired with a crisp green salad or your favorite garlic bread.

Equipment

  • Large Pot
  • Large Skillet
  • Colander
  • Wooden Spoon or Spatula
  • Measuring cups and spoons

Notes

  • Reserve some pasta water to adjust sauce consistency for a silky texture.
  • Cook pasta al dente to avoid mushiness when combined with the sauce.
  • Reheat leftovers gently with a splash of milk or cream to restore creaminess.
  • Substitute regular bacon for turkey bacon for a richer flavor, if preferred.
  • Add seasonal vegetables like zucchini or mushrooms for variation.