Mmmm...noodles: Bacon Bow Tie Pasta

Even though this is a very highly rated Southern Living recipe, I was still surprised at how good it was...

Bacon Bow Tie Pasta
Prep: 10 min., Cook: 25 min.

1/2 (16-oz.) package bow tie pasta
1/2 pound bacon
1 (8-oz.) package cream cheese, softened
1/4 cup butter, softened
1 1/2 teaspoons Italian seasoning
2/3 cup milk
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese

1. Cook pasta according to package directions; drain. Keep warm.
2. Cook bacon according to package directions; drain well, and crumble.
3. Beat cream cheese, butter, and Italian seasoning in a medium-size microwave-safe bowl at low speed with an electric mixer until smooth. Gradually add milk, beating until mixture is smooth.
4. Microwave cream cheese mixture at HIGH 3 minutes or until thoroughly heated, whisking every 30 seconds. Pour cream cheese mixture over warm pasta, tossing to coat. Top with crumbled bacon and 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese.

Lightened Bacon Bow Tie Pasta: Substitute reduced-fat or turkey bacon, 1/3-less-fat cream cheese, and 2% reduced-fat milk. Proceed as directed.
Yield: Makes 4 servings