Ingredients
Pasta Ingredients
Instructions
Step 1
Begin by finely chopping the onion, leek, and garlic. Slice the bacon into small pieces. If you have not done so already, peel and devein the shrimps, ensuring they are ready for cooking.
Step 2
Heat a pan over medium heat and add the chopped onion, leek, and garlic. Sauté them until they become translucent and fragrant. Next, add the diced bacon to the pan and cook until crispy. Finally, toss in the shrimp and cook until they turn pink and opaque.
Step 3
While the bacon and shrimp are cooking, bring a pot of salted water to a boil and add the tagliatelle. Cook according to the package instructions until al dente. Reserve a ladle of the pasta water and then drain the pasta.
Step 4
In the same pan with the bacon and shrimp, pour in the cream and the reserved pasta water. For a thicker sauce, you can stir in a spoonful of flour. Season the sauce with spices according to your taste and let it simmer gently for a few minutes until it thickens.
Step 5
Once the sauce has thickened, add the cooked tagliatelle to the pan. Toss everything together to ensure the pasta is well coated in the creamy sauce. If needed, adjust the seasoning one more time.
Step 6
Serve the tagliatelle on plates, grating some cheese on top if desired. Finish off by garnishing with fresh basil. Enjoy your delicious meal!
Servings
Equipment
A sturdy skillet is essential for cooking the bacon, garlic, and shrimp evenly. Choose a non-stick option for easier cleanup.
A large pot will help cook the tagliatelle perfectly—just remember to salt your water for better flavor!
Use this for stirring the ingredients to avoid scratching your skillet and to mix everything uniformly.
A microplane or fine grater is handy for adding fresh cheese on top—this little touch makes all the difference!
Variations
Faq
- Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?
Absolutely! Just make sure to thaw them properly before cooking for even flavor and texture.
- How do I know when the pasta is cooked perfectly?
Pasta should be *al dente*, meaning it retains a slight bite. Follow the package instructions and taste test a minute or two before the recommended time.
- Can I make this pasta dish ahead of time?
It's best enjoyed fresh, but you can prepare the sauce in advance and store it in the fridge. Just reheat and toss with freshly cooked pasta!
- What dairy alternatives can I use in this recipe?
For a lighter sauce, you could use almond milk or oat milk. Just look for products that have a creamy texture to maintain the dish's richness.
- What spices pair well with this dish?
Feel free to experiment! A pinch of red pepper flakes or Italian herbs can elevate the flavor beautifully.
- Can I add vegetables to this recipe?
Of course! Spinach, cherry tomatoes, or asparagus would make a wonderful addition, both in flavor and nutrition.