# What You'll Need:
→ Pasta
01 - 14 oz spaghetti or linguine
02 - 1 tablespoon salt (for pasta water)
→ Bacon Crumble
03 - 6 slices streaky bacon, chopped
04 - 1 teaspoon olive oil
→ Garlic Butter Sauce
05 - 1/4 cup unsalted butter
06 - 4 large garlic cloves, finely minced
07 - 1/2 teaspoon chili flakes (optional)
08 - 1/4 cup reserved pasta cooking water
09 - 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
10 - Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
→ Garnish
11 - 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
12 - Extra grated Parmesan, to serve
# Directions:
01 - Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook pasta according to package directions until al dente. Reserve 1/2 cup pasta water, then drain.
02 - Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add chopped bacon and fry until crispy and golden, about 6 to 8 minutes. Transfer to paper towels; set aside.
03 - Reduce heat, add butter to the same skillet and melt. Stir in minced garlic and chili flakes if using. Sauté gently for 1 to 2 minutes until fragrant without browning.
04 - Add drained pasta to skillet and toss to coat with garlic butter. Pour in reserved pasta water and Parmesan cheese, tossing until sauce is silky and clings evenly. Season with salt and black pepper.
05 - Plate pasta immediately and top with crispy bacon crumble, chopped parsley, and additional grated Parmesan.
