This Bacon and Pea Pasta is a tasty dish that combines crispy bacon with fresh peas and pasta. It’s creamy, comforting, and perfect for a quick weeknight meal!
You know what I love? How the smoky bacon pairs with the sweet peas! It just makes me smile—plus, it’s ready in no time, which means more time for enjoying it! 😋
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pasta: Spaghetti or linguine are great choices here. If you need gluten-free options, you can use chickpea or lentil pasta instead. Just check the cooking instructions as they may vary.
Bacon: Thick-cut bacon provides a great texture and flavor. If you prefer a healthier option, turkey bacon or pancetta work well too. You can also use smoked alternatives for that delicious smoky touch.
Peas: Fresh peas are sweet and vibrant, but frozen peas are just as good. They’re easy to use and save you prep time. If you want to switch it up, try adding spinach or asparagus for a different flavor.
Heavy Cream: This gives the dish its creamy texture. If you’re looking for a lighter version, use half-and-half or a plant-based cream like coconut cream or cashew cream for a dairy-free option.
Parmesan Cheese: Freshly grated Parmesan is best for flavor. If you’re dairy-free, nutritional yeast adds a cheesy taste too!
How Do I Ensure My Bacon Gets Crispy?
Getting bacon crispy is all about the right cooking technique. Start by cooking it on medium heat; this helps render the fat gradually. Also, be sure not to overcrowd the skillet for even cooking.
- Cut your bacon into small slices for quicker cooking.
- Remember to drain excess fat as you go, which helps it brown.
- If you like it extra crispy, let it cook a couple of minutes longer, but keep an eye on it to prevent burning!
How Do I Create the Perfect Creamy Sauce?
For that creamy sauce, the key is to combine the heavy cream and cheese off the heat. This prevents the cream from boiling and curdling.
- Once your pasta is done, immediately mix it into the sauce right away.
- Use reserved pasta water to adjust the thickness; it helps the sauce cling better to your noodles.
Now you’re all set to make this delightful Bacon and Pea Pasta! Enjoy your cooking!
How to Make Bacon and Pea Pasta
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Main Ingredients:
- 8 oz (225g) spaghetti or linguine pasta
- 4-6 slices of bacon, diced
- 1 cup fresh or frozen peas
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese, plus extra for serving
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons olive oil or reserved bacon fat
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish
Time Needed:
This recipe takes about 20 minutes to prepare and cook. It’s quick enough for a weekday dinner while still being delicious and satisfying!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Pasta:
Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Once boiling, add the pasta and cook according to the package instructions until it’s al dente (usually about 8-10 minutes). Before you drain it, reserve about 1 cup of the pasta water, as you’ll need it for the sauce. After that, drain the pasta and set it aside.
2. Crisp the Bacon:
In a large skillet, heat over medium heat. Add the diced bacon and cook until it’s crispy and golden, which should take about 5-7 minutes. Once crispy, use a slotted spoon to transfer the bacon to a plate lined with paper towels to drain. Keep the bacon fat in the skillet—it adds awesome flavor!
3. Sauté the Garlic and Peas:
In the same skillet with the lingering bacon fat, add the minced garlic and sauté for about a minute or until it’s fragrant. Next, add the peas (if using frozen, no need to thaw) and cook them for about 2-3 minutes until they are warmed through and tender.
4. Create the Creamy Sauce:
Reduce the heat and pour the heavy cream into the skillet with the peas and garlic. Stir everything together and let it simmer gently for about 2 minutes. This will help thicken the cream slightly.
5. Combine Everything:
Now it’s time to bring everything together! Add the drained pasta to the skillet along with the crispy bacon and grated Parmesan cheese. Toss everything well so that the pasta is coated in the creamy sauce. Don’t forget, if the sauce seems too thick, you can slowly add a little reserved pasta water until it’s just right and coats the pasta nicely.
6. Season and Serve:
Season your dish with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste. Serve your pasta immediately, garnished with extra Parmesan cheese and chopped fresh parsley for a burst of color and fresh flavor.
Enjoy your creamy and delicious Bacon and Pea Pasta! It’s sure to become a favorite!
Can I Use Other Types of Pasta for This Recipe?
Absolutely! While spaghetti or linguine are great choices, you can use any pasta shape you like, such as penne or fusilli. Just cook according to the package instructions and adjust the cooking time as needed.
What Can I Use Instead of Heavy Cream?
If you’re looking for a lighter option, you can substitute heavy cream with half-and-half or even Greek yogurt for a tangy twist. If you prefer a dairy-free alternative, try using coconut cream or almond milk, though the taste might vary slightly.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. When reheating, add a splash of water or more cream to loosen the sauce, and heat gently on the stove or in the microwave, stirring occasionally.
Can I Add Other Vegetables?
Yes! Feel free to mix in other vegetables like spinach, asparagus, or bell peppers for added flavor and nutrition. Just sauté them with the garlic before adding the cream.
