Description
This quick and creamy pasta recipe combines smoky bacon, sweet peas, and a rich cream sauce for a comforting meal that comes together in under 30 minutes. Perfect for beginners, this dish is simple, satisfying, and packed with flavor.
Ingredients
Scale
- 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)
Instructions
- Boil the Pasta and Peas: Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Add the penne pasta and cook according to package instructions. Halfway through cooking, add the frozen peas to the boiling water so they cook alongside the pasta. Reserve ½ cup of pasta water before draining.
- Sauté the Bacon and Onions: While the pasta cooks, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the diced onions and chopped bacon, stirring frequently. Cook until the onions soften and the bacon turns crispy, about 5-7 minutes.
- Combine the Ingredients: Reduce the heat to low and pour the heavy cream into the skillet with the bacon and onions. Stir well to combine. If the sauce appears too thick, add a small amount of reserved pasta water to loosen it.
- Mix the Pasta: Add the drained pasta and peas directly to the skillet. Toss everything together until the pasta is well-coated in the creamy sauce. Season with salt and black pepper to taste.
- Serve Immediately: Transfer the pasta to serving bowls while hot. Sprinkle with grated Parmesan cheese if desired. Enjoy fresh for the best flavor and texture.
Notes
- To prevent overcooking, drain the pasta when it is al dente, as it will continue to cook in the sauce.
- If the sauce thickens too much while sitting, add a splash of milk or reserved pasta water when reheating.
- For extra richness, substitute olive oil with a small amount of butter.
- Pancetta or turkey bacon can be used instead of traditional bacon for a slightly different flavor profile.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Pasta, Quick Dinners
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bowl
- Calories: 570 kcal
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 231mg
- Fat: 23g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Unsaturated Fat: 12g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 70g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 17g
- Cholesterol: 42mg