This Bacon and Pea Pasta is a yummy, quick meal that packs a punch! Creamy sauce with crispy bacon and sweet peas makes every bite tasty and fun.
If you’re like me, you’ll love how fast it comes together. Perfect for a weeknight dinner when you’re short on time. Plus, who can resist bacon? 🤤
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pasta: I love using spaghetti for this dish, but linguine works just as well. If you’re gluten-free, consider using brown rice pasta or a legume-based pasta for a healthy twist.
Bacon: For a crispier texture, I prefer thick-cut bacon. You can also try pancetta or turkey bacon for a lighter option. If you want to go vegetarian, smoked tempeh or mushrooms can add that savory flavor.
Peas: Fresh peas are delightful in this dish, but frozen peas are just as good and convenient. If you can’t find either, asparagus or green beans can be fun substitutes!
Heavy cream: If you’re looking for a lighter creaminess, try half-and-half or a dairy-free cream made from cashews or coconut milk. These alternatives still provide that lovely texture!
What’s the Best Way to Cook the Bacon for Perfect Crispiness?
Cooking the bacon until it’s crispy is key to bringing bold flavor to this dish. Here’s how to get it just right:
- Start with a cold skillet. Place the chopped bacon in and turn the heat to medium. This helps render the fat slowly.
- Cook, stirring occasionally, for about 5-7 minutes until the bacon is golden brown and crispy.
- Always use a slotted spoon to remove it, letting the fat drain. This keeps your bacon crispy and prevents it from getting soggy.
Cooking the bacon carefully adds wonderful smoky notes to every bite of your Bacon and Pea Pasta!
How to Make Bacon and Pea Pasta
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Pasta:
- 12 oz (340 g) spaghetti or linguine pasta
For the Bacon:
- 6 oz (170 g) bacon, chopped
For the Sauce:
- 1 1/2 cups fresh or frozen green peas
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese, plus extra for serving
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- Salt, to taste
- Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 1 tbsp olive oil (optional, if needed)
For Topping:
- Fresh parsley or basil (optional, for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 20 minutes to prepare and cook. You’ll spend a few minutes boiling the pasta and browning the bacon, followed by a quick assembly of the creamy sauce. An easy and delicious dinner solution!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook 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 al dente. Don’t forget to reserve about 1 cup of pasta water before you drain it. This starchy water will help to create a creamy sauce later!
2. Cook the Bacon:
While your pasta is cooking, grab a large skillet and heat it over medium heat. Toss in the chopped bacon and let it cook for about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it becomes crispy and browned. Once done, remove the bacon with a slotted spoon and let it drain on paper towels. Keep the bacon fat in the skillet; it adds tons of flavor!
3. Sauté the Garlic and Peas:
In the same skillet with the leftover bacon fat, add the minced garlic. Sauté it for about 30 seconds until it becomes fragrant. If there’s not enough fat, feel free to add a tablespoon of olive oil to help things along. Now, toss in the peas and cook for 2-3 minutes—just until they’re heated through (if frozen) or tender (if fresh).
4. Create the Creamy Sauce:
Pour in the heavy cream and bring it to a gentle simmer. Let it reduce a little for 2-3 minutes, allowing the cream to thicken slightly.
5. Combine Everything:
Now for the fun part! Add the cooked pasta to the skillet along with the grated Parmesan cheese. Toss it all together and use some of that reserved pasta water slowly, as needed, to loosen up the sauce and make it nice and creamy.
6. Add the Bacon:
Stir in the crispy bacon pieces. Give it a taste and add salt and freshly ground black pepper according to your preference.
7. Serve and Enjoy!
Serve your delicious Bacon and Pea Pasta immediately! Top it off with more Parmesan cheese and some freshly chopped parsley or basil for a pop of color and flavor. Enjoy every creamy, savory bite!
Can I Use Other Types of Pasta?
Absolutely! While spaghetti or linguine are great choices, any pasta shape like penne, fusilli, or farfalle will work well. Just keep an eye on the cooking time as it may vary.
How Can I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm in a pan on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of cream or broth if the sauce thickens too much.
Can I Make This Dish Vegetarian?
Yes! You can substitute the bacon with smoked tempeh or mushrooms for that savory, umami flavor. Also, use vegetable broth instead of heavy cream to keep it creamy and delicious!
What Should I Serve with Bacon and Pea Pasta?
This dish is hearty on its own, but it pairs nicely with a simple side salad, garlic bread, or roasted vegetables. Enjoy balancing the richness of the pasta with something fresh!