Penne Pasta, Peas and Bacon

There’s something about a Penne Pasta, Peas and Bacon dish that feels like a warm hug after a long day. I still remember the first time I made this creamy pasta with peas and bacon—I was in college, juggling assignments and a part-time job, and I needed a meal that was quick, satisfying, and foolproof. With just a handful of ingredients and minimal effort, I created a dish that tasted like it came straight from an Italian trattoria.

Penne Pasta, Peas and Bacon is perfect for beginner cooks because it requires no fancy techniques or expensive ingredients. It’s ready in under 30 minutes, making it ideal for busy weeknights. The combination of smoky bacon, sweet peas, and a rich, creamy sauce creates a delicious balance of flavors and textures. Plus, it’s a flexible dish—swap ingredients to suit your pantry and dietary preferences. Whether you’re cooking for yourself or impressing guests, this recipe is a winner.

Why This Recipe is Special

This dish is a staple in many Italian households because of its simplicity and rich flavors. The magic happens when the crispy bacon, creamy sauce, and tender pasta come together in perfect harmony. Here’s why you’ll love it:

• Beginner-Friendly – No advanced cooking skills required. If you can boil pasta and cook bacon, you’ve got this.
• Quick & Easy – The entire dish is ready in about 20 minutes, perfect for last-minute meals.
• Customizable – Don’t have bacon? Use pancetta or mushrooms. Want it lighter? Swap the cream for Greek yogurt.
• Comforting & Satisfying – The creamy sauce clings to the pasta, making every bite flavorful and indulgent.

Ingredients and Preparation

Before diving into the steps, let’s go over the key ingredients and their roles in this dish:

• Pasta – Penne works best because its ridges hold onto the sauce, but you can use rigatoni, fusilli, or even spaghetti.
• Bacon – Adds a rich, smoky flavor and crispy texture. Thick-cut bacon works best, but pancetta or turkey bacon are great alternatives.
• Peas – A pop of sweetness balances the saltiness of the bacon and richness of the cream. Frozen peas are most convenient, but fresh peas can be used if cooked slightly longer.
• Heavy Cream – Binds everything together, creating a silky sauce. For a lighter version, use half-and-half, Greek yogurt, or a blend of milk and cream cheese.
• Onion – Provides a subtle sweetness that complements the bacon and peas. Shallots or white onions can be used as well.
• Olive Oil – Used to sauté the onions and bacon. If your bacon is fatty, you may not need additional oil.
• Parmesan Cheese (Optional) – Adds a nutty, salty finish. You can also use Pecorino Romano for a sharper taste.
• Salt & Pepper – Enhances all the flavors. Be mindful of salt, as bacon and cheese already add saltiness.

Ingredient Substitutes and Variations

• Meatless Version – Skip the bacon and sauté mushrooms or sun-dried tomatoes instead.
• Dairy-Free Option – Use coconut cream or cashew cream instead of heavy cream.
• Extra Protein – Add shredded rotisserie chicken or sautéed shrimp for a heartier meal.
• Vegan Twist – Use plant-based bacon, dairy-free cream, and nutritional yeast instead of Parmesan.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente. In the last 2 minutes of cooking, add the frozen peas to the boiling water.

Step 2
While the pasta is cooking, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the diced onion and cook until soft and translucent, about 3 minutes.

Step 3
Add the chopped bacon to the skillet and cook until crispy. Stir occasionally to prevent burning. If there’s excess grease, drain some but keep a little for flavor.

Step 4
Drain the pasta and peas, reserving about ½ cup of the pasta water. Add the pasta and peas directly to the skillet with the bacon and onions.

Step 5
Lower the heat and pour in the heavy cream. Stir everything together, letting the cream thicken slightly. If the sauce is too thick, add a splash of the reserved pasta water.

Step 6
Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper. If using Parmesan, sprinkle it in and stir well.

Step 7
Remove from heat and serve immediately. Garnish with extra cheese, cracked black pepper, or fresh herbs like parsley.

Beginner Tips and Notes

• Cook Pasta Al Dente – Overcooked pasta can turn mushy when mixed with the sauce. Always follow package instructions and taste-test for doneness.
• Use Reserved Pasta Water – It’s a natural thickener that helps the sauce stick to the pasta better.
• Don’t Overcook the Bacon – It should be crispy but not burnt, as burnt bacon can taste bitter.
• Sauté Onions Slowly – Cooking them gently releases their natural sweetness, which balances the dish.
• Add Cheese Off Heat – If adding Parmesan, mix it in after removing the pan from the heat to prevent clumping.

Serving Suggestions

Pair this dish with a simple side or elevate it with some extras:

• Garlic Bread – Toasted baguette with garlic butter makes a great accompaniment.
• Side Salad – A fresh green salad with balsamic vinaigrette cuts through the richness of the dish.
• Roasted Vegetables – Serve with roasted asparagus, zucchini, or cherry tomatoes for extra nutrition.
• Wine Pairing – A crisp white wine like Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio complements the creamy sauce.

Storage and Reheating Tips

• Refrigeration – Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Reheating – Warm gently in a skillet over low heat with a splash of milk or cream to restore the sauce’s creaminess.
• Freezing – Not recommended, as the cream-based sauce can separate when thawed.

Conclusion

This Penne Pasta, Peas and Bacon is proof that simple ingredients can create an incredible meal. It’s quick, comforting, and endlessly adaptable, making it perfect for beginner cooks looking to build confidence in the kitchen.

Have you tried this recipe? Let me know in the comments how it turned out and any creative twists you added. I’d love to hear from you! Happy cooking.

FAQ About Creamy Pasta with Peas and Crispy Bacon

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