Easy Penne Pasta with Peas and Bacon Recipe

When you’re looking for a quick, comforting dish that packs a punch of flavor, penne pasta peas bacon is an easy go-to. This recipe combines tender penne pasta with sweet green peas and crispy, smoky bacon all tossed in a creamy sauce. It’s a delicious meal you can whip up any night of the week without a fuss.

this Recipe

You’ll love how simple ingredients come together to create a satisfying dish that feels special but requires minimal effort. Whether you’re feeding the family or just yourself, this penne pasta peas bacon recipe fits the bill perfectly.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Ready in under 30 minutes, perfect for busy weeknights.
• Uses simple pantry and fridge staples for convenience.
• Combines creamy, savory, and fresh flavors in one bowl.
• Customizable—add herbs or cheese to suit your taste.
• Comforting and filling without being heavy.

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients to make your creamy penne pasta with peas and bacon. The quantities serve about 4 people.

• 12 ounces penne pasta
• 6 slices bacon, chopped into small pieces
• 1 cup frozen peas, thawed
• 1 small onion, finely minced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
• Fresh parsley for garnish

Recipe Details

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 18 minutes
• Total Time: 28 minutes
• Servings: 4
• Calories: Approximately 520 per serving

How to Make Penne Pasta, Peas and Bacon

1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the penne pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente, about 11 minutes. Drain, reserving 1/2 cup of pasta water.
2. While pasta cooks, heat a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped bacon and cook until crisp, about 6-8 minutes. Remove bacon with a slotted spoon and set aside on paper towels.
3. In the same skillet with bacon fat, add butter and minced onion. Sauté until the onion is translucent and fragrant, about 3 minutes. Add minced garlic and cook 1 more minute.
4. Pour in the heavy cream, stirring to combine. Let the mixture simmer gently for 3-4 minutes until it slightly thickens. Stir in Parmesan cheese until melted and smooth.
5. Add the peas, cooked bacon, and red pepper flakes (if using) to the sauce. Season with salt and black pepper. If the sauce is too thick, stir in a splash of reserved pasta water to loosen it.
6. Toss the drained penne pasta into the skillet with the sauce. Mix well to coat all the pasta evenly.
7. Cook together for another 1-2 minutes to heat through and allow flavors to meld. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.
8. Remove from heat and sprinkle chopped fresh parsley over the top before serving hot.

Tips for the Best Results

• Use good quality Parmesan cheese for a richer flavor and creamier sauce.
• Don’t overcook the pasta; al dente texture works best to avoid mushiness.
• Keep some pasta water handy to adjust sauce consistency easily.
• Swap out frozen peas for fresh when in season for a sweeter taste.
• For extra creaminess, stir in a tablespoon of cream cheese or mascarpone.

Storage and Reheating

Store leftover penne pasta peas bacon in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When ready to eat, gently reheat on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of cream or milk to restore the sauce’s creaminess.

You can also freeze this dish for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating slowly on the stove to maintain the best texture and flavor.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use a different type of pasta?

Absolutely! Penne is ideal because its tube shape holds the sauce well, but rigatoni, fusilli, or farfalle would work nicely too. Just adjust cooking times based on the pasta you choose.

Is it possible to make this recipe vegetarian?

Yes, simply omit the bacon and add sautéed mushrooms or sun-dried tomatoes for a savory alternative. You can also use vegetarian bacon substitutes for a similar smoky flavor.

How do I make this recipe dairy-free?

To make it dairy-free, substitute the heavy cream with coconut milk or a plant-based cream and use a vegan Parmesan alternative or nutritional yeast for cheesy flavor. Be mindful this will alter the taste slightly.

Can I prepare this recipe ahead of time?

You can cook the pasta and sauce separately and combine just before serving. This makes it easy to reheat quickly and keep the pasta from getting soggy if you want to prepare it ahead.