Creamy Penne Pasta with Peas and Bacon

Name: Creamy Penne Pasta with Peas and Bacon
Prep time: 5 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 20 min
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: ¾ pound penne pasta; 1 tablespoon olive oil; ½ yellow onion, diced; 6 slices thick-cut bacon, chopped; 1 cup frozen peas; ¼ cup heavy cream; Salt and black pepper, to taste; Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)

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There is something undeniably comforting about a bowl of creamy pasta. It is the kind of meal that feels like a warm hug at the end of a long day. For me, pasta has always been a go-to when I need something quick yet satisfying, and this Penne Pasta with Peas and Bacon is one of my all-time favorites. I remember the first time I made it—I was a beginner in the kitchen, looking for a foolproof recipe that wouldn’t leave me overwhelmed. With just a few simple ingredients and minimal prep, I had a restaurant-worthy meal in under 30 minutes.

This dish is perfect for beginners because it requires no complicated techniques or hard-to-find ingredients. The combination of smoky bacon, sweet peas, and a luscious cream sauce makes it irresistibly good while staying incredibly simple. Plus, it is a fantastic recipe to build confidence in the kitchen. If you are new to cooking or just looking for an easy, delicious meal, this lemon herb pasta dish is the perfect place to start.

Why This Recipe is Special

This easy sheet pan dinner alternative has a few elements that make it stand out:

Beginner-Friendly: If you can boil pasta and sauté bacon, you can make this dish successfully.
Quick and Efficient: It comes together in the time it takes to cook the pasta, making it ideal for busy nights.
Balanced Flavors: The sweetness of the peas balances the salty, crispy bacon, while the creamy sauce brings everything together.

Customizable: You can easily swap out ingredients to suit your dietary needs or preferences.
Crowd-Pleasing: Whether cooking for family or guests, this quick and healthy meal will impress without requiring hours in the kitchen.

Ingredients and Preparation

Before starting, gather all your ingredients to streamline the process. Here is a breakdown of each component and why it matters:

Pasta (Penne, Rigatoni, or Orecchiette) – The tubular shape holds onto the creamy sauce, making every bite flavorful.
Bacon – Adds a smoky, crispy texture that contrasts beautifully with the creamy sauce.
Yellow Onion – Brings a mild sweetness and depth to the dish.

Frozen Peas – Provide a pop of freshness and a slight natural sweetness.
Heavy Cream – Creates the rich, velvety sauce that binds all the flavors together.
Olive Oil – Used for sautéing the onions and bacon to enhance flavor.

Parmesan Cheese (Optional) – Adds a sharp, nutty taste if you choose to sprinkle it on top.
Salt and Black Pepper – Essential seasonings to bring out the best in every ingredient.

Ingredient Substitutions

For a lighter version: Use half-and-half or a mix of milk and cream cheese instead of heavy cream.

For a vegetarian option: Omit the bacon and add mushrooms or sun-dried tomatoes for extra depth.
For a dairy-free alternative: Use coconut cream or cashew cream instead of heavy cream.
For a different protein: Swap bacon with pancetta, sausage, or shredded rotisserie chicken.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Once boiling, add the pasta and cook according to package instructions. Halfway through the cooking time, add the frozen peas to the same pot. This allows the peas to cook perfectly without an extra step.

Step 2: While the pasta cooks, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the diced onions and chopped bacon, stirring occasionally until the bacon turns crispy and the onions become translucent. This should take about 5-7 minutes.

Step 3: Once the bacon is crispy, lower the heat and slowly pour in the heavy cream. Stir well, letting it warm and thicken slightly. If you want a thinner sauce, you can add a few tablespoons of the pasta cooking water.

Step 4: Drain the pasta and peas, then immediately add them to the skillet with the bacon-cream mixture. Toss everything together until the pasta is well-coated in the creamy sauce.

Step 5: Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and black pepper. If desired, sprinkle Parmesan cheese on top for an extra savory touch.

Step 6: Serve immediately while hot. Garnish with fresh herbs or additional cheese if preferred.

Beginner Tips and Notes

How to Avoid Overcooked Pasta: Cook pasta al dente, meaning it should have a slight bite when tested. Since it continues to cook when mixed with the hot sauce, removing it from the water a minute early prevents mushy pasta.
Balancing the Creaminess: If the sauce becomes too thick, add a splash of reserved pasta water to loosen it up.
Making It Extra Flavorful: Use bacon grease instead of olive oil for a richer taste.

Keeping the Bacon Crispy: Cook the bacon separately and mix it in at the end if you want it to remain extra crispy.
Avoiding Burnt Onions: Stir frequently and cook on medium heat so the onions soften without charring.
Cheese Addition: If adding cheese, do it off heat to prevent clumping or separating.

Serving Suggestions

This quick and healthy meal pairs beautifully with a few simple sides:

Garlic Bread – Adds a crispy, buttery contrast to the creamy pasta.
Simple Green Salad – A fresh side balances the richness of the dish.

Roasted Vegetables – Try roasted asparagus, bell peppers, or zucchini for extra nutrients.
Wine Pairing – A crisp white wine like Sauvignon Blanc complements the creamy sauce without overpowering it.

Storage Tips

Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.

Reheating: Warm on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of milk or water to loosen the sauce.
Freezing: Avoid freezing, as the cream sauce can separate when thawed.

Join the Conversation

I hope you love this creamy penne pasta with peas and bacon as much as I do. Whether you are new to cooking or a seasoned home chef, this dish is one you will want to add to your regular rotation. If you try it, let me know in the comments! Did you make any fun modifications? Share your experiences and tips to inspire others.

Looking for more easy sheet pan dinner ideas? Stay tuned for more beginner-friendly recipes that make cooking fun and stress-free!

FAQ About Creamy Penne Pasta with Peas and Bacon

Can I use fresh peas instead of frozen peas?

Yes, fresh peas can be used, but they require a slightly longer cooking time. Add them to the pasta water a couple of minutes earlier than frozen peas to ensure they soften properly.

What can I use instead of heavy cream?

If you prefer a lighter version, you can substitute heavy cream with half-and-half, a mix of whole milk and cream cheese, or a dairy-free alternative like coconut cream.

How can I make this dish vegetarian?

Simply omit the bacon and sauté the onions in butter or olive oil. To add extra flavor, consider using mushrooms, sun-dried tomatoes, or smoked paprika for a subtle smoky taste.

Can I make this ahead of time?

This dish is best enjoyed fresh, but you can prepare the sauce in advance and store it separately. When ready to serve, reheat the sauce gently and mix it with freshly cooked pasta for the best texture.

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