This Bacon and Pea Pasta is a quick and tasty dish. The crispy bacon mixes perfectly with sweet peas and pasta, creating a fun meal everyone will love!
Honestly, what’s better than bacon? Not much! I could eat this dish every week and never get bored. It’s perfect for busy nights when you want something delicious fast!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pasta: Use your favorite pasta shape! I love trofie for its unique texture, but you can also go with penne or fusilli. If you’re gluten-free, consider using brown rice or chickpea pasta—just watch your cooking time!
Bacon: Bacon adds crunch and flavor. If you want a healthier twist, turkey bacon or crispy pancetta work well too. For a vegetarian option, try smoked tempeh or mushrooms for that savory taste!
Peas: Fresh or frozen peas offer a sweet pop. If peas aren’t available, chopped asparagus or even chopped spinach could be a nice substitute. Frozen peas are easy and save time, so no worries if they aren’t fresh!
Parmesan Cheese: Parmesan brings richness. For a non-dairy option, try nutritional yeast; it gives a cheesy flavor too! Always adjust the amount based on how cheesy you like your pasta.
Heavy Cream: The cream adds richness. You can use milk or even a splash of vegetable broth for a lighter sauce. If you’re avoiding dairy, almond milk or coconut cream can work well!
How Do I Cook the Bacon Perfectly?
Getting bacon crispy is easy with the right steps. Follow these guidelines for deliciously cooked bacon:
- Start with a cold skillet and add the chopped bacon. This helps fat render slowly, making it crispier.
- Heat over medium to medium-high heat. Stir occasionally for even cooking.
- Cook until it’s golden brown but not burnt, about 5-7 minutes. You want that wonderful crispy texture!
- Remember to save some rendered fat in the skillet for added flavor when cooking the garlic and combining ingredients.
With these tips, your bacon will shine in this dish! Happy cooking!
Bacon and Pea Pasta
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Pasta:
- 12 oz (340 g) pasta (like trofie, fusilli, or penne)
- 1 1/2 cups fresh or frozen peas
For the Sauce:
- 6 slices bacon, chopped
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese, plus extra for serving
- 1/4 cup heavy cream or half-and-half (optional, for creamier sauce)
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
For Garnish:
- Fresh parsley, chopped
Time Needed:
This delicious recipe takes about 20 minutes to prepare and cook. It’s a quick and easy dish perfect for busy weeknights or any day you crave something comforting yet tasty!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Pasta:
Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Once boiling, add your pasta and cook according to the package instructions until it’s al dente (cooked but still firm). During the last 2-3 minutes of cooking, toss in the peas. After that, remember to reserve about 1/2 cup of the pasta water, then drain the pasta and peas together.
2. Cook the Bacon:
While your pasta is cooking, take a large skillet and heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped bacon and sauté it until crispy, which should take about 5-7 minutes. Once it’s nice and crispy, use a slotted spoon to remove the bacon and let it drain on some paper towels to absorb any excess grease.
3. Sauté the Garlic:
Now, in the same skillet with the bacon drippings, add in the minced garlic. Cook it for about 30 seconds or until it’s fragrant—be careful not to burn it!
4. Combine the Ingredients:
Return the crispy bacon to the skillet along with the drained pasta and peas. Give everything a good stir to combine.
5. Create the Sauce:
Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese and the heavy cream (if you’re using it). If the mixture seems a bit too thick, add a splash of the reserved pasta water to loosen the sauce to your liking.
6. Season and Serve:
Season your pasta with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste. Toss everything together to make sure it’s all mixed well and heated through for another 1-2 minutes. Finally, serve your delicious pasta immediately. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley and extra Parmesan cheese on top, if desired.
Now, sit back and enjoy this simple, hearty, and flavorful pasta dish that perfectly balances the salty bacon with sweet peas! Dig in!
Can I Use Other Types of Pasta?
Absolutely! Feel free to use any pasta shape you love. Trofie, fusilli, and penne are all great options, but spaghetti or even gluten-free pasta works just fine. Just adjust the cooking time according to the package directions!
How Can I Store Leftover Pasta?
Leftover Bacon and Pea Pasta can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Simply reheat in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of water or cream if it seems dry.
Can I Make This Dish Vegetarian?
Yes! To make it vegetarian, substitute the bacon with smoked tempeh or sautéed mushrooms for that savory flavor. You can also add more vegetables like spinach or bell peppers for extra color and nutrition!
Can I Freeze This Pasta Dish?
While it’s best enjoyed fresh, you can freeze leftovers. Allow the pasta to cool completely, then transfer it to an airtight container or freezer bag. It should keep for about 1-2 months. Thaw it in the fridge before reheating on the stove!
