Pasta with Bacon and Peas
Ingredients
- 8 oz. pasta*
- 6 oz. bacon
- 1 small onion
- 1 cup frozen peas
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan
- 1/4 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp freshly cracked black pepper
- 1/8 tsp crushed red pepper
optional
Directions
- 1
Bring a pot of water to a boil for the pasta. Once boiling, add the pasta and continue to boil until the pasta is tender (7-10 minutes). Reserve about a half cup of the starchy pasta water before draining the pasta in a colander.
- 2
While the pasta is boiling, cook the bacon. Add the bacon to a large skillet and cook over medium heat until brown and crispy. Transfer the cooked bacon to a paper towel lined plate with a slotted spoon. Drain most of the bacon grease from the pan, leaving about 2 Tbsp.
- 3
While the bacon is cooking, finely dice the onion. Add the diced onion to the remaining bacon grease and sauté until tender (about 5 minutes).
- 4
Add the frozen peas and about ¼ cup of the reserved pasta water to the skillet. Continue to cook and stir until the peas have heated through.
- 5
Add the drained pasta to the skillet, stir to combine, and remove from the heat.
- 6
Top the pasta with Parmesan, salt, pepper, crushed red pepper, and crumbled bacon. Stir to combine. Taste and adjust the salt and pepper to your liking.
Pasta with Bacon and Peas
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About this Recipe
Craving a quick, comforting meal that’s both satisfying and easy on the wallet? Pasta with Bacon and Peas is your answer, bringing together simple ingredients for a deeply flavorful experience you can enjoy any night.
This dish shines by pairing the smoky, salty crunch of bacon with the bright sweetness of frozen peas, all brought together by perfectly cooked pasta. It’s a testament to how everyday pantry staples can create something truly delicious and comforting without fuss. The combination of savory and sweet, with a hint of spice, makes this a surprisingly complex yet effortlessly simple meal.
You'll discover a harmonious blend of textures and tastes in every forkful: tender pasta coated in a savory, light sauce, punctuated by crisp bits of bacon and the gentle pop of vibrant peas. The grated Parmesan adds a nutty, salty depth, while a hint of crushed red pepper (if you choose to add it) offers a subtle warmth that elevates every bite. This is a hearty, satisfying meal that feels like a warm hug, perfect for any occasion when you need something quick yet fulfilling.
Feel free to get creative with your pasta shape; penne, rotini, or even farfalle would work wonderfully to capture the sauce and small pieces of bacon and peas. If bacon isn't on hand, pancetta makes a fine substitute, or for a vegetarian twist, consider sautéed mushrooms or sun-dried tomatoes to add an umami depth. Don't have Parmesan? Pecorino Romano would offer a sharper, saltier kick, or a quality aged white cheddar could provide a different but complementary richness.
This wholesome pasta dish is ideal for a busy weeknight dinner or a casual family supper. Serve it simply on its own for a complete and fulfilling meal, perhaps with a sprinkle of fresh herbs if you have them for a touch of brightness.