Picture a cozy evening in your kitchen, the scent of savory bacon wafting through the air, mingling with the delicate sweetness of peas. This Penne Pasta with Peas and Bacon is not just another pasta dish; it’s a comforting classic that is quick to whip up on a weeknight or elegant enough to impress guests at a dinner party. The combination of creamy sauce, crispy bacon, and vibrant green peas creates a symphony of flavors that will leave you wanting more.
Why make this recipe
Why you’ll love this dish
This recipe shines for several reasons. It’s not only incredibly satisfying, but it also checks all the boxes for a busy lifestyle: quick preparation, minimal cleanup, and family-friendly flavors. You can have this hearty meal on the table in under 30 minutes—perfect for those hectic weeknights when time is of the essence.
"This dish has become a staple in our household! It’s so simple yet packs a flavor punch. Every bite is just delightful!" – Sarah T.
How to make Penne Pasta, Peas and Bacon
Step-by-step overview
Creating this dish is straightforward and enjoyable. Here’s what to expect:
- Cook the pasta in salted water.
- Sauté the bacon and onions until crispy.
- Combine everything with heavy cream.
- Serve hot and enjoy!
Ingredients
What you’ll need
Gather these items to make this scrumptious meal:
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- ½ yellow onion, diced very small
- 1 cup frozen peas
- 6 thick slices of bacon, cut into small pieces
- ¾ pound penne pasta
- ¼ cup heavy cream
Feel free to substitute the bacon with turkey bacon or add spinach for an extra nutritional boost.
Directions
Step-by-step instructions
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil, then add the penne pasta.
- Cook according to package instructions, but subtract 1 minute so the pasta is al dente. Halfway through, add the frozen peas to the boiling water.
- Meanwhile, heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the finely diced onions and the bacon pieces.
- Cook until both the bacon and onion are crispy but not burnt.
- Once the pasta and peas are cooked, drain them and add them to the skillet with the onion and bacon mixture.
- Lower the heat to medium and stir in the heavy cream, mixing well. Adjust the cream quantity to your liking.
- Serve immediately, garnished with freshly cracked pepper or grated cheese, if desired.
How to serve Penne Pasta, Peas and Bacon
Best ways to enjoy it
This dish shines on its own or accompanied by fresh garlic bread and a side salad. For an elegant touch, consider garnishing with freshly grated Parmesan and a sprinkling of cracked black pepper. A side of roasted vegetables or a light green salad will make for a well-rounded meal.
How to store
Storage and reheating tips
To store leftovers, place the pasta in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. When reheating, add a splash of milk or cream to restore creaminess and prevent it from drying out. This dish can also be frozen; just ensure it’s stored in an airtight container to maintain freshness.
Tips to make
Helpful cooking tips
- For an added depth of flavor, consider adding garlic while sautéing the onions and bacon.
- If you’re short on time, pre-cooked bacon can save a few minutes.
- Always taste your pasta while it cooks; this way, you’ll achieve the perfect al dente texture.
Variations
Creative twists
Feel free to experiment! You can swap the penne for whole wheat or gluten-free pasta. For an extra layer of flavor, add cherry tomatoes or mushrooms. To make it vegetarian, omit the bacon entirely and incorporate mushrooms or tofu sautéed until golden.
FAQs
Common questions
Q: How long does preparation take?
A: Prep time is about 10 minutes, and the cooking process takes roughly 15-20 minutes.
Q: Can I substitute the heavy cream?
A: Yes! You can use half-and-half, Greek yogurt, or even a plant-based cream for a lighter option.
Q: Is it safe to store leftovers?
A: Absolutely! As long as it is kept in an airtight container in the fridge, it will stay fresh for up to 3 days. Always reheat thoroughly before eating.
Penne Pasta with Peas and Bacon
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Diet: Non-Vegetarian
Description
A comforting classic dish featuring penne pasta, crispy bacon, and sweet peas in a creamy sauce, perfect for quick weeknight dinners or elegant gatherings.
Ingredients
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- ½ yellow onion, diced very small
- 1 cup frozen peas
- 6 thick slices of bacon, cut into small pieces
- ¾ pound penne pasta
- ¼ cup heavy cream
Instructions
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil, then add the penne pasta.
- Cook according to package instructions, but subtract 1 minute to achieve al dente pasta. Halfway through, add the frozen peas.
- Meanwhile, heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
- Add the finely diced onions and bacon pieces.
- Cook until both the bacon and onion are crispy but not burnt.
- Once the pasta and peas are cooked, drain them and add them to the skillet with the onion and bacon mixture.
- Lower the heat to medium and stir in the heavy cream, mixing well. Adjust cream quantity to your liking.
- Serve immediately, garnished with freshly cracked pepper or grated cheese if desired.
Notes
For added depth of flavor, consider sautéing garlic with the onions and bacon. Use pre-cooked bacon for quicker preparation.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Sautéing
- Cuisine: Italian