Description
Indulge in this quick and easy Creamy Bacon and Pea Pasta recipe that promises a burst of flavors in every bite. Perfect for a cozy dinner or a flavorful lunch option.
Ingredients
Pasta:
- 8 ounces pasta (penne, fettuccine, spaghetti, or rigatoni)
Bacon and Peas:
- 6 slices bacon (chopped (or substitute pancetta))
- 1 cup frozen peas (thawed)
Creamy Sauce:
- 2 cloves garlic (minced)
- 1 cup heavy cream (or half-and-half for a lighter option)
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 tablespoon butter
- ½ teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- ¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for spice)
- ½ cup reserved pasta water (as needed for the sauce)
- Fresh parsley or basil (for garnish)
Instructions
- Step 1: Cook the Pasta
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the pasta according to the package instructions until al dente. Reserve ½ cup of pasta water, then drain and set aside.
- Step 2: Cook the Bacon
In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the chopped bacon until crispy and golden brown (about 5-7 minutes). Remove the bacon, leaving 1 tablespoon of grease in the pan.
- Step 3: Sauté Garlic and Add Peas
Melt butter in the skillet over medium heat. Add garlic, cook for 30 seconds. Stir in peas and cook for 2 minutes.
- Step 4: Make the Creamy Sauce
Reduce heat, pour in cream, add Parmesan, salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes. Stir until smooth and creamy.
- Step 5: Combine Everything
Add pasta and bacon to the skillet, toss together, adding pasta water as needed. Stir until well-coated.
- Step 6: Serve and Garnish
Remove from heat, garnish with parsley or basil. Serve with extra Parmesan on top.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 560
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 780mg
- Fat: 32g
- Saturated Fat: 18g
- Unsaturated Fat: 11g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 47g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 20g
- Cholesterol: 100mg