This Bacon and Pea Pasta is a quick, tasty dish that mixes crispy bacon with sweet peas and creamy sauce. Perfect for busy nights when you need comfort food fast!
Honestly, who can resist the combo of crispy bacon and lovely green peas? I could eat this for lunch every day—and sometimes I do! It’s so easy to whip up!
Ingredients & Substitutions
Pasta: You can use casarecce or penne, but any pasta shape will work. If you’re looking for a gluten-free option, try using gluten-free pasta; it still tastes great!
Bacon: I love using regular bacon for its flavor, but turkey bacon is a great, lean alternative if you’re watching fat intake. For a smoky touch, consider pancetta.
Green Peas: Fresh peas are delightful, but frozen peas work perfectly too—and they’re super convenient. They heat quickly and stay sweet!
Heavy Cream: If you want a lighter version, half-and-half or whole milk can be substituted, but the sauce will be less rich. If you’re dairy-free, coconut milk offers a creamy texture.
Parmesan Cheese: Grated Pecorino Romano is a good substitute for a sharper flavor. If you don’t have cheese on hand, nutritional yeast gives that cheesy taste for a vegan option!
How Do I Get Crispy Bacon Without Burning It?
Getting bacon crispy without it turning too dark or burned is all about the heat. You’ll want to cook it over medium heat. Here’s how:
- Start with a cold skillet and place the chopped bacon in it. This prevents splattering and helps it cook evenly.
- Cook on medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the bacon gets crispy and golden brown, around 6-8 minutes. Take your time!
- Remove the bacon with a slotted spoon and let it drain on paper towels to absorb excess grease. This keeps it crispy!
Now you’re ready to use that delicious bacon in your pasta dish! Enjoy the crunch it adds!
Bacon and Pea Pasta
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Pasta:
- 12 oz (340 g) pasta (casarecce, penne, or similar)
- 6 oz (170 g) bacon, chopped
- 1 cup fresh or frozen green peas
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese, plus extra for serving
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Time Needed:
This delicious Bacon and Pea Pasta takes about 20 minutes to prepare and cook. It’s a quick meal that’s perfect for busy weeknights!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cooking the Pasta:
Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Once it’s bubbling, cook the pasta according to the package instructions until it’s al dente—firm but not hard. Remember to reserve about 1 cup of the pasta cooking water before you drain. This water is magical for adjusting the sauce later!
2. Preparing the Bacon:
While the pasta is cooking, grab a large skillet and heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped bacon and cook it until it’s crispy, which should take about 6-8 minutes. Once done, remove the bacon with a slotted spoon and let it drain on paper towels, keeping that tasty fat in the skillet for flavor!
3. Making the Sauce:
In the same skillet with the leftover bacon fat, toss in the minced garlic and sauté it for about 30 seconds until you can smell its delightful aroma. Then, add in the green peas and cook for 2-3 minutes, warming them through.
4. Creamy Goodness:
Now, pour in the heavy cream and bring that mixture to a gentle simmer. Let it bubble away for 2-3 minutes until it starts to thicken a bit. This is where the magic happens!
5. Finishing Touches:
Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese and season the sauce with salt and black pepper. If the sauce feels too thick—no worries! Just add a splash of the reserved pasta water until you reach your desired consistency.
6. Combining Everything:
Finally, add the cooked pasta and crispy bacon to the skillet with the sauce. Toss everything gently to ensure the pasta is evenly coated in that creamy, cheesy goodness.
7. Serving:
Serve your fabulous dish hot! Garnish with fresh chopped parsley and sprinkle some extra Parmesan cheese on top. Enjoy every bite of this delightful comfort food!
This Baconn and Pea Pasta is a delicious combination of savory bacon, sweet peas, and creamy sauce that brings joy to any dinner table. Happy cooking!
Can I Use Different Types of Pasta?
Absolutely! While casarecce and penne are great options, any pasta shape you have on hand will work just fine. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time according to the pasta’s instructions!
Can I Make This Recipe Ahead of Time?
You can prepare the sauce and cook the bacon ahead of time, then simply reheat and combine with freshly cooked pasta when you’re ready to eat. This dish is quick enough that you can whip it up in under 20 minutes even on a busy night!
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm the pasta on the stovetop with a splash of cream or pasta water to loosen the sauce, ensuring it doesn’t dry out.
Can I Add Vegetables or Other Proteins?
Definitely! Feel free to add other veggies like spinach, broccoli, or even bell peppers for extra nutrition. You could also substitute the bacon with grilled chicken or shrimp for a different flavor profile!
