Creamy Penne Pasta with Peas and Bacon: A Quick Weeknight Meal
By Olivia Hayes
This creamy penne pasta with peas and bacon can be on your table in just 20 minutes, making it a perfect choice for busy nights. The savory flavors from crispy bacon and sweet peas create a satisfying meal that feels indulgent yet effortless. With minimal ingredients and a one-pan process, you won't spend long in the kitchen.
The ingredients are straightforward: penne pasta, frozen peas, thick-cut bacon, and heavy cream come together for a dish that balances creaminess with savory depth. Cooking the pasta and peas together cuts down on dishes and infuses flavor directly. The heavy cream binds everything, yielding a comforting, rich texture without overwhelming the dish.
While cooking, watch for the onions turning translucent and the bacon browning slightly, ensuring the flavors meld beautifully. The most common mistake is overcooking the pasta, which can lead to a mushy texture. Aim for al dente pasta and let the cream sauce complete the cooking process while mixing to achieve the right consistency.
Serve it hot straight from the pan. Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container for up to two days; just reheat gently with a splash of cream to maintain moisture and texture.
Why you'll love this recipe
- Comes together in just 20 minutes, thanks to cooking the pasta and peas in the same pot while the bacon crisps.
- Requires only a handful of ingredients, making it easy to whip up even after a long day.
- Utilizes one pan for cooking, simplifying cleanup and letting you focus on enjoying your meal.
- Offers a combination of creamy richness and savory depth, perfect for satisfying quick dinners.
- Easily customizable with different pasta shapes or additional veggies, allowing you to use whatever you have on hand.
- Delivers comforting flavors without feeling overly heavy, thanks to the balance of ingredients.
Ingredients
- •1 tablespoon olive oil
- •0.5 cup yellow onion (diced very small)
- •1 cup peas (frozen)
- •6 slices bacon (thick cut, cut into small pieces)
- •0.75 pound penne pasta
- •0.25 cup heavy cream
Instructions
- 1
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and add the penne pasta.
- 2
Halfway through cooking the pasta, add the frozen peas to the water.
- 3
Meanwhile, in a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high and add the onion and bacon.
- 4
Cook until the onions are translucent and the bacon is crisp.
- 5
Drain the pasta and peas, then add them to the onion and bacon mixture.
- 6
Lower the heat to medium and stir in the heavy cream.
- 7
Stir well, add more cream if needed, and serve immediately.
FAQ
Nutrition (per serving)
Calories
570
Protein
17g
Fat
23g
Carbs
70g
