There’s something incredibly comforting about a bowl of pasta, especially when it’s loaded with crispy bacon, sweet peas, and a creamy sauce that hugs every bite. This Penne Pasta with Peas and Bacon is the kind of dish that feels like a warm hug after a long day—simple, satisfying, and packed with flavor.
I first made this recipe on a busy weeknight when I needed something quick but still felt like a treat. The combination of smoky bacon, tender peas, and al dente penne pasta was an instant hit with my family. It’s become a regular in our dinner rotation, and I’m excited to share it with you.
What I love most about this dish is its versatility. It’s hearty enough to stand on its own, but you can also pair it with a fresh salad or garlic bread for a more complete meal. Plus, it’s a great way to sneak some veggies into your diet without sacrificing flavor.
Whether you’re cooking for a crowd or just treating yourself, this recipe is a winner. It’s quick, easy, and guaranteed to put a smile on your face. So, grab your favorite pasta pot, and let’s get cooking!
Resume
This Penne Pasta with Peas and Bacon is the ultimate comfort food. It’s creamy, savory, and packed with flavor, making it perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a cozy weekend meal.
The star of the dish is the crispy bacon, which adds a smoky depth of flavor that pairs perfectly with the sweet peas and tender pasta. The creamy sauce ties everything together, creating a dish that’s both indulgent and satisfying.
What makes this recipe stand out is its simplicity. With just a handful of ingredients and 30 minutes of your time, you can create a meal that feels gourmet without the hassle. It’s also highly customizable, so you can easily adapt it to suit your taste or dietary preferences.
Whether you’re a pasta lover or just looking for a new family favorite, this Penne Pasta with Peas and Bacon is sure to impress. It’s comfort food at its finest, and it’s guaranteed to become a regular on your menu.
Exciting Story
Let me tell you about the first time I made this dish. It was a chilly evening, and my kids had been begging for pasta. I wanted to make something quick but still felt special, so I rummaged through the fridge and found bacon, peas, and cream.
As the bacon sizzled in the pan, the smell filled the kitchen, and my little ones came running. They watched as I tossed the pasta with the creamy sauce, and their eyes lit up when I added the peas. “It’s like a party in a bowl!” my daughter exclaimed.
Since then, this dish has become a family favorite. It’s our go-to meal when we need something comforting and quick. My husband loves it because it’s hearty and flavorful, and I love it because it’s so easy to make.
There’s something magical about a dish that brings everyone together, and this Penne Pasta with Peas and Bacon does just that. It’s a reminder that the best meals don’t have to be complicated—they just have to be made with love.
Why This Penne Pasta with Peas and Baco
Selling Points
- Quick and Easy: Ready in just 30 minutes, this dish is perfect for busy weeknights.
- Comfort Food at Its Best: Creamy, savory, and packed with flavor, it’s the ultimate comfort food.
- Versatile: Customize it with your favorite ingredients or adapt it to suit dietary needs.
- Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike will love the combination of bacon, peas, and pasta.
What You Need For Penne Pasta with Peas and Bacon
For the Pasta:
- 12 oz penne pasta
- 6 slices bacon, chopped
- 1 cup frozen peas
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
How to Make Penne Pasta with Peas and Bacon
- Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the penne pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1/2 cup of pasta water, then drain the pasta.
- Cook the Bacon: In a large skillet, cook the chopped bacon over medium heat until crispy. Remove the bacon with a slotted spoon and set aside, leaving the bacon grease in the pan.
- Sauté the Garlic: Add the minced garlic to the skillet and sauté for 1-2 minutes, until fragrant.
- Add the Peas and Cream: Stir in the frozen peas and heavy cream. Cook for 3-4 minutes, until the peas are tender and the sauce has thickened slightly.
- Combine Everything: Add the cooked pasta and crispy bacon to the skillet. Toss to coat the pasta in the sauce, adding reserved pasta water as needed to reach your desired consistency.
- Finish with Cheese: Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese and season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Serve: Garnish with fresh parsley and extra Parmesan cheese, if desired.
Tips For Penne Pasta with Peas and Bacon
- Use high-quality bacon for the best flavor.
- Don’t skip the pasta water—it helps create a silky sauce.
- For extra flavor, add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a squeeze of lemon juice.
Substitutions and Variations
- Vegetarian: Skip the bacon and use olive oil instead. Add sautéed mushrooms for extra flavor.
- Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free penne pasta.
- Lighter Version: Substitute half-and-half or milk for the heavy cream.
- Add-Ins: Try adding cooked chicken, spinach, or sun-dried tomatoes.
Make a Healthier Version
- Use turkey bacon or lean ham instead of regular bacon.
- Substitute Greek yogurt for half of the heavy cream.
- Add extra veggies like spinach, zucchini, or broccoli.
Closing
And there you have it! This Penne Pasta with Peas and Bacon is the perfect combination of comfort and convenience. Don’t forget to let us know how your dish turns out, and consider checking out some of our other Recipes:
Frequently Asked Questions For Penne Pasta with Peas and Bacon
- Can I use fresh peas instead of frozen?
Yes, fresh peas work great! Just blanch them before adding to the sauce. - How do I store leftovers?
Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat on the stovetop with a splash of milk or cream. - Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, but it’s best served fresh. If making ahead, prepare the components separately and combine before serving. - What other pasta shapes can I use?
Fusilli, farfalle, or rigatoni would all work well. - Can I freeze this dish?
It’s not recommended, as the cream sauce may separate when thawed. - How can I make it spicier?
Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce. - Can I use a different cheese?
Yes, try Pecorino Romano or Asiago for a different flavor. - What can I serve with this pasta?
A simple green salad or garlic bread pairs perfectly. - Can I use pancetta instead of bacon?
Absolutely! Pancetta adds a delicious, slightly different flavor. - How do I prevent the sauce from curdling?
Keep the heat low when adding the cream and cheese, and stir constantly. - Can I make this dairy-free?
Use coconut cream and a dairy-free cheese alternative. - What’s the best way to reheat leftovers?
Reheat on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of milk or cream to loosen the sauce.