Pumpkin Mushroom Spaghetti Bacon (Ready-to-Print Version)

Spaghetti tossed with pumpkin, mushrooms, and bacon in a creamy sauce—perfect for cozy autumn nights.

# What You Need:

→ Main Ingredients

01 - 12 oz spaghetti
02 - 6 slices thick-cut bacon
03 - 2 tablespoons olive oil (optional)
04 - 2 cups mushrooms, sliced
05 - 2 cloves garlic, minced
06 - 1 cup canned pumpkin puree
07 - 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
08 - 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
09 - 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg (optional)
10 - Salt and pepper to taste
11 - 1/2 cup heavy cream
12 - 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
13 - Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

# How to Make It:

01 - Cook spaghetti according to package directions until al dente. Reserve 1/2 cup pasta water and drain.
02 - In a large skillet, cook bacon over medium heat until crispy. Transfer to paper towels and crumble once cooled.
03 - Drain excess bacon grease, leaving 1 tablespoon in the pan. Add olive oil if needed. Sauté sliced mushrooms in the pan for 5–7 minutes until browned.
04 - Stir in garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
05 - Add pumpkin puree, thyme, smoked paprika, nutmeg, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
06 - Pour in cream and Parmesan cheese. Simmer for 2–3 minutes to thicken.
07 - Add cooked spaghetti and toss with sauce. Use reserved pasta water to loosen if needed.
08 - Serve with crispy bacon, chopped parsley, and extra Parmesan.

# Extra Details:

01 - To make this dish vegetarian, omit the bacon and add toasted nuts or crispy shallots.
02 - You can also use dairy-free cream and cheese for a plant-based version.
03 - The sauce can be made ahead and stored separately.