Creamy Bacon Pea Pasta: A Deliciously Easy Recipe for Dinner

Creamy Bacon Pea Pasta is a delightful dish that brings together the rich flavors of crispy bacon and the sweetness of fresh peas, all enveloped in a luscious cream sauce. As I prepared this recipe for the first time, I was instantly transported to my grandmother’s kitchen, where she would whip up comforting meals that brought the family together. This dish not only satisfies the palate but also evokes a sense of nostalgia and warmth.

People adore Creamy Bacon Pea Pasta for its perfect balance of taste and texture. The salty crunch of the bacon pairs beautifully with the tender peas, while the creamy sauce creates a velvety coating that clings to each strand of pasta. It’s a quick and convenient meal that can be prepared in under 30 minutes, making it ideal for busy weeknights or a cozy weekend dinner. Join me as we dive into this delicious recipe that is sure to become a favorite in your household!

Ingredients:

• 8 ounces of pasta (your choice, I prefer fettuccine or penne)
• 4 slices of bacon, chopped
• 1 cup of frozen peas
• 2 tablespoons of olive oil
• 3 cloves of garlic, minced
• 1 cup of heavy cream
• 1 cup of grated Parmesan cheese
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Preparing the Pasta

1. **Boil Water**: Start by filling a large pot with water and bring it to a rolling boil. Make sure to add a generous amount of salt to the water; this is your chance to season the pasta as it cooks. 2. **Cook the Pasta**: Once the water is boiling, add the pasta. Cook according to the package instructions until al dente. This usually takes about 8-10 minutes, but keep an eye on it to ensure it doesn’t overcook. 3. **Reserve Pasta Water**: Before draining the pasta, reserve about 1 cup of the pasta cooking water. This starchy water will help to create a creamy sauce later on. 4. **Drain the Pasta**: Drain the pasta in a colander and set it aside. Do not rinse the pasta, as you want to keep the starch that will help the sauce adhere.

Cooking the Bacon and Peas

5. **Cook the Bacon**: In a large skillet over medium heat, add the chopped bacon. Cook until it’s crispy and golden brown, which should take about 5-7 minutes. Stir occasionally to ensure even cooking. 6. **Remove Bacon**: Once the bacon is cooked, use a slotted spoon to remove it from the skillet and place it on a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess grease. Leave the bacon fat in the skillet; it adds flavor to the dish. 7. **Sauté Garlic**: In the same skillet with the bacon fat, add the minced garlic. Sauté for about 1 minute, or until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic, as it can turn bitter. 8. **Add Peas**: Next, add the frozen peas to the skillet. Stir them into the garlic and bacon fat, cooking for about 2-3 minutes until they are heated through and bright green.

Making the Creamy Sauce

9. **Add Heavy Cream**: Pour in the heavy cream, stirring to combine with the peas and garlic. Allow the mixture to simmer for about 2-3 minutes, letting it thicken slightly. 10. **Incorporate Parmesan**: Gradually add the grated Parmesan cheese to the skillet, stirring continuously until the cheese melts and the sauce becomes creamy. If the sauce is too thick, add a little reserved pasta water to reach your desired consistency. 11. **Season the Sauce**: Taste the sauce and season with salt and pepper as needed. Remember that the bacon and Parmesan already add some saltiness, so adjust accordingly.

Combining the Pasta and Sauce

12. **Add Pasta to Sauce**: Once the sauce is ready, add the drained pasta directly into the skillet. Toss the pasta in the sauce until it’s well coated. If the sauce seems too thick, add more reserved pasta water a little at a time until you achieve the desired creaminess. 13. **Mix in Bacon**: Finally, add the crispy bacon back into the skillet. Toss everything together gently to combine all the flavors.

Serving the Dish

14. **Plate the Pasta**: Serve the creamy bacon pea pasta in bowls or on plates. I like to use tongs to twirl the pasta for a nice presentation. 15. **Garnish**: Sprinkle freshly chopped parsley on top for a pop of color and added freshness. You can also add extra Parmesan cheese if you’re feeling indulgent. 16. **Enjoy**: Dig in and enjoy your creamy bacon pea pasta! This dish is perfect for a cozy dinner or a special occasion, and it’s sure to impress your family and friends.

Tips and Variations

– **Pasta Choices**: While I love fettuccine or penne, you can use any pasta shape you prefer. Just adjust the cooking time according to the type of pasta you choose. – **Add Vegetables**: Feel free to add other vegetables like spinach, asparagus, or broccoli for extra nutrition and flavor. – **Protein Options**: If you want to make this dish heartier, consider adding grilled chicken or shrimp

Conclusion:

In summary, this Creamy Bacon Pea Pasta is an absolute must-try for anyone looking to elevate their weeknight dinners with a dish that’s both comforting and indulgent. The combination of crispy bacon, sweet peas, and a luscious cream sauce creates a symphony of flavors that will leave your taste buds dancing. Plus, it’s incredibly easy to whip up, making it perfect for busy evenings or when you want to impress guests without spending hours in the kitchen. For serving suggestions, consider pairing this delightful pasta with a simple side salad dressed in a light vinaigrette to balance the richness of the dish. You could also sprinkle some freshly grated Parmesan cheese on top for an extra layer of flavor. If you’re feeling adventurous, try adding some sautéed mushrooms or sun-dried tomatoes for a twist that will take this recipe to the next level. I wholeheartedly encourage you to give this Creamy Bacon Pea Pasta a try! I’d love to hear about your experience, so don’t forget to share your thoughts and any variations you come up with. Cooking is all about creativity, and I can’t wait to see how you make this dish your own. Happy cooking!

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