Print
clock clock iconcutlery cutlery iconflag flag iconfolder folder iconinstagram instagram iconpinterest pinterest iconfacebook facebook iconprint print iconsquares squares iconheart heart iconheart solid heart solid icon

Creamy Zucchini and Broccoli Pasta with Bacon

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star No reviews
  • Author: Emma Delaney
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 20 minutes
  • Total Time: 30 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings 1x
  • Category: Main Course
  • Method: Stovetop
  • Cuisine: Italian
  • Diet: Low Lactose

Description

A comforting and creamy pasta dish featuring sautéed zucchini, broccoli, and crispy bacon tossed with linguine in a rich Parmesan cream sauce.


Ingredients

Units Scale
  • 8 oz linguine or spaghetti
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 4 slices bacon, chopped
  • 1 small zucchini, thinly sliced
  • 1 cup broccoli florets
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • Salt and black pepper to taste
  • Optional: pinch of red pepper flakes

Instructions

  1. Cook pasta in salted boiling water according to package instructions. Reserve ½ cup pasta water, then drain.
  2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add chopped bacon and cook until crispy. Remove with a slotted spoon and set aside.
  3. Add zucchini and broccoli to the skillet. Sauté for 4–5 minutes until just tender. Add garlic and cook for another 1–2 minutes.
  4. Reduce heat, pour in heavy cream, and stir in Parmesan cheese. Simmer gently until sauce thickens slightly.
  5. Return cooked bacon to the skillet. Season with salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes (if using).
  6. Toss in the cooked pasta and a splash of reserved pasta water to help coat. Mix until well combined and creamy.
  7. Serve immediately with extra Parmesan if desired.

Notes

  • Reserve pasta water to adjust sauce consistency if needed.
  • Substitute turkey bacon or pancetta for variations in flavor.
  • For a vegetarian version, omit bacon and add mushrooms or peas.

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1.5 cups
  • Calories: 520
  • Sugar: 3g
  • Sodium: 540mg
  • Fat: 30g
  • Saturated Fat: 15g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 13g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 44g
  • Fiber: 3g
  • Protein: 18g
  • Cholesterol: 85mg