Pasta with Bacon and Cabbage

Step 1

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the 8 oz macaroni and cook until al dente, about 8-10 minutes. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water, then drain.

Step 2

While the pasta cooks, chop the 6 slices bacon into 1-inch pieces. Heat a large skillet over medium heat and cook the bacon until crispy, about 6-8 minutes. Transfer to a plate, leaving the drippings in the pan.

Step 3

Add the 1 tbsp olive oil to the skillet. Add the 4 cups shredded cabbage and 2 minced garlic cloves. Sauté over medium-high until the cabbage is tender and lightly browned, about 8-10 minutes.

Step 4

Return the bacon to the skillet. Add the drained macaroni and 1/2 cup of the reserved pasta water. Toss everything together over medium heat for 2-3 minutes, until the sauce coats the pasta.

Step 5

Remove from heat. Stir in the 1/2 cup grated Parmesan, 1 tsp salt, and 1/2 tsp black pepper. Add more pasta water if needed to loosen. Serve hot with extra Parmesan if desired.

Step 6

Optional: add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a squeeze of lemon for brightness.

Step 7

Serve immediately, garnished with extra black pepper or fresh herbs if you have them.