A Delightful Pasta Dish You’ll Crave
If you’re craving a comforting meal that’s quick to prepare, look no further than pasta with bacon and peas. This dish is not just a treat for your taste buds but also a win for anyone balancing a busy schedule with family-friendly meals. The salty crispness of bacon, the sweetness of peas, and the creamy finish of Parmesan cheese come together beautifully in this easy, one-pan wonder. Whether it’s a weeknight dinner or a last-minute lunch, you’ll find this recipe becomes a staple in your kitchen!
What Makes This Recipe Special
When you’re tossing around ideas for dinner, this pasta with bacon and peas checks all the boxes: it’s budget-friendly, incredibly easy to whip up, and sure to please even the pickiest eaters. The harmonious combination of crispy bacon and tender peas makes this dish not only flavorful but also appealing visually. Plus, it comes together in about 20 minutes, making it the perfect solution for a hectic weeknight meal.
“This dish has become a family favorite! It’s quick, easy, and my kids devour it!” – Jenna M., home cook
Let’s Bring It All Together
Making pasta with bacon and peas is as straightforward as it gets! You’ll start by boiling your pasta, then moving on to cooking that savory bacon until it’s crispy. While that’s happening, a delightful sauté of onion and peas will fill your kitchen with irresistible aromas. In just a few steps, you’re left with a delicious dish that delivers flavor without fuss.
Ingredients You’ll Need
To create this delicious meal, gather the following ingredients:
- 8 oz. pasta ($0.59*)
- 6 oz. bacon ($2.71)
- 1 small onion ($0.70)
- 1 cup frozen peas ($0.56)
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan ($0.44)
- 1/4 tsp salt ($0.02)
- 1/4 tsp freshly cracked black pepper ($0.02)
- 1/8 tsp crushed red pepper (optional, $0.01)
Feel free to swap out the bacon for turkey bacon or substitute the Parmesan with a dairy-free alternative to suit your dietary preferences!
Directions to Follow
- Boil the Pasta: Bring a pot of water to a rolling boil. Add your pasta and cook until tender, about 7–10 minutes. Reserve about 1/2 cup of the starchy water before draining.
- Cook the Bacon: In a large skillet, add the bacon and cook over medium heat until brown and crispy. Transfer the bacon to a paper towel-lined plate, allowing excess fat to drain, and leave about 2 tablespoons of the rendered grease in the pan.
- Sauté the Onion: Dice the onion finely and add it to the skillet with the reserved bacon grease. Sauté for about 5 minutes or until translucent and tender.
- Add Peas: Incorporate the frozen peas and a 1/4 cup of reserved pasta water to the skillet. Stir, cooking until the peas are heated through.
- Combine: Add the drained pasta to the skillet, stirring to combine everything.
- Season: Top with crumbled bacon, Parmesan cheese, salt, cracked black pepper, and crushed red pepper if using. Stir again to combine, and adjust the seasoning to your taste before serving.
Best Ways to Enjoy It
To elevate your dining experience, consider plating the pasta in a large bowl, garnished with extra parsley or a sprinkle of more Parmesan cheese on top. Serve with a side of garlic bread or a crisp green salad to balance the flavors. This meal pairs well with a glass of chilled white wine or sparkling water with a slice of lemon, making it feel extra special.
Storing Leftovers
To keep your leftovers fresh, store any uneaten pasta in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It should last for 3-4 days. When you’re ready to reheat, simply warm it in the microwave or on the stovetop, adding a splash of water or a dash of olive oil to prevent it from drying out.
Extra Advice
For a smoother preparation process, have all your ingredients prepped and measured before you start cooking. This not only saves time but also reduces the stress of scrambling for ingredients while something is frying away. Additionally, don’t be shy with your seasoning—the flavors amplify as they blend!
Flavor Swaps to Try
Want to change things up? Here are some creative twists you can explore:
- Vegetarian Option: Replace bacon with sautéed mushrooms or crispy tofu for a vegetarian version.
- Cheesy Variation: Experiment with other cheeses, like feta or goat cheese, for a tangy flavor.
- Herb Infusion: Mix in fresh herbs like basil or thyme to add freshness.
Your Questions Answered
How long does it take to make pasta with bacon and peas?
The entire dish takes around 20 minutes from start to finish, making it perfect for quick meals.
What can I substitute for bacon?
Turkey bacon or even smoked paprika can provide a different flavor without the meat!
How can I store leftovers safely?
Place leftovers in an airtight container and refrigerate. Consume within 3–4 days for the best taste and safety.
With its simplicity and delightful taste, this pasta dish with bacon and peas will surely become a cherished favorite. Enjoy your culinary adventure!
Pasta with Bacon and Peas
Ingredients
Method
- Bring a pot of water to a rolling boil. Add your pasta and cook until tender, about 7–10 minutes. Reserve about 1/2 cup of the starchy water before draining.
- In a large skillet, add the bacon and cook over medium heat until brown and crispy. Transfer the bacon to a paper towel-lined plate, allowing excess fat to drain, and leave about 2 tablespoons of the rendered grease in the pan.
- Dice the onion finely and add it to the skillet with the reserved bacon grease. Sauté for about 5 minutes or until translucent and tender.
- Incorporate the frozen peas and a 1/4 cup of reserved pasta water to the skillet. Stir, cooking until the peas are heated through.
- Add the drained pasta to the skillet, stirring to combine everything.
- Top with crumbled bacon, Parmesan cheese, salt, cracked black pepper, and crushed red pepper if using. Stir again to combine and adjust seasoning to taste before serving.