This Bacon and Pea Pasta is a quick and tasty meal that’s sure to impress! With crispy bacon and sweet peas mixed in a creamy sauce, it’s a yummy delight.
You can whip this up in just one pot, making cleanup a breeze! Plus, if you’re like me, you might find yourself polishing off the whole bowl. Yum! 😋
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pasta: Any short pasta works well, but I really like using casarecce for its twisty shape that holds the sauce nicely. If you’re looking for a gluten-free option, try gluten-free pasta or even spiralized zucchini for a lighter version!
Bacon: Bacon adds a smoky flavor that’s hard to resist. If you’re avoiding pork, turkey bacon or even chopped pancetta are great substitutes. I sometimes use a mix of bacon and sausage for a twist!
Peas: Fresh peas are fantastic when in season, but frozen peas are just as good and super convenient. They add a nice pop of sweetness. You can even swap them for spinach or kale if you want some greens in the mix!
Parmesan Cheese: For a creamy finish, grated Parmesan is key. If you’re out of Parmesan, Pecorino Romano gives a nice tangy kick. Nutritional yeast is a great dairy-free option here!
Heavy Cream: For a rich sauce, heavy cream is excellent. If you’re looking for a lighter option, half-and-half works great too. You can also use coconut cream for a dairy-free alternative.
What’s the Best Way to Cook the Bacon for This Dish?
Cooking the bacon is crucial for adding that crispy, flavorful element to your pasta. Here’s how to do it perfectly:
- Start with a cold skillet and lay the bacon slices in a single layer. This helps render the fat and cook evenly.
- Cook over medium heat, turning occasionally, until the bacon is crispy, about 8-10 minutes.
- Use a slotted spoon to transfer the cooked bacon to a plate lined with paper towels to drain excess grease.
Now you’ve got perfectly crispy bacon to mix with your pasta! Just remember, saving some of that bacon fat adds extra flavor to your dish too.
Bacon and Pea Pasta
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Pasta:
- 8 ounces pasta (casarecce, penne, or your favorite kind)
For the Sauce:
- 6 slices bacon, diced
- 1 cup fresh or frozen peas
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 cup heavy cream or half-and-half
- 1 small onion, finely chopped (optional)
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon butter
- Salt, to taste
- Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 20 minutes from start to finish! You’ll spend around 10 minutes cooking the pasta and another 10 minutes preparing the sauce and combining everything. It’s quick, easy, and so delicious!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Pasta:
Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add your pasta and cook according to the package instructions until it’s nice and al dente. Once done, reserve about 1/2 cup of the pasta water (this helps adjust the sauce later) and then drain the pasta. Set it aside.
2. Cook the Bacon:
While your pasta is cooking, grab a large skillet and heat it over medium heat. Add the diced bacon and cook until it’s perfectly crispy, which should take about 5-7 minutes. Once crispy, use a slotted spoon to transfer the bacon to a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess grease. Leave about 1 tablespoon of the fat in the skillet for flavor!
3. Sauté the Aromatics:
In the same skillet with the reserved bacon fat, add the butter and let it melt over medium heat. If you’re using onion, toss it in and sauté until softened, about 3-4 minutes. Then, add the minced garlic and cook for about 30 seconds, stirring until fragrant.
4. Add the Peas:
Now, add the peas to the skillet and cook them until they’re warmed through, which should only take about 2-3 minutes. If using frozen peas, this step ensures they’re heated and tender!
5. Make the Creamy Sauce:
Reduce the heat to low and mix in the heavy cream and grated Parmesan cheese. Stir well to combine, allowing the cheese to melt and create a creamy sauce. If the sauce seems too thick, gradually add some of that reserved pasta water until you reach your desired consistency.
6. Combine Everything:
Add the drained pasta and the crispy bacon back into the skillet. Gently toss everything together until the pasta is well coated with the creamy sauce.
7. Final Seasoning:
Now it’s time to season! Add salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste. Give it a final toss to mix the flavors.
8. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve your delicious Bacon and Pea Pasta immediately, garnished with extra Parmesan cheese and a sprinkle of chopped fresh parsley for that finishing touch. Enjoy every bite!
This recipe is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or when you’re entertaining guests. It’s easy to make and even easier to fall in love with! Enjoy your meal!
Can I Use Different Types of Pasta?
Absolutely! While casarecce and penne work beautifully, you can use any pasta you prefer. Spaghetti, fusilli, or even whole grain pasta are great alternatives. Just adjust the cooking time according to the pasta type.
Can I Substitute the Bacon?
Yes! If you’re looking for a healthier option, turkey bacon is a fantastic substitute. For a vegetarian option, try using smoked tempeh or mushrooms to add depth and flavor without the meat.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When reheating, you might want to add a splash of cream or pasta water to restore the creamy texture of the sauce.
Can I Make This Dish Ahead of Time?
While it’s best enjoyed fresh, you can cook the bacon and prepare the sauce ahead of time. Just cook the pasta right before you’re ready to serve, and mix everything together to ensure it stays creamy and delicious!