4-Ingredient Pasta with Bacon and Garlic

1. Cook the pasta in salted water according to package directions until al dente. Before draining, reserve some of the pasta water.
2. In the same pan (or a separate one if preferred), cook the bacon until crispy. 
3. Add garlic to the pan with the bacon (and a little bacon fat for flavor) and sauté briefly. Pour in some of the reserved pasta water.
4. Add the cooked pasta and black pepper (if using) to the pan, tossing to combine.
5. Top generously with grated parmesan cheese before serving.