Penne Pasta with Peas and Bacon – Easy Creamy Pasta Recipe

There’s something wonderfully comforting about a big bowl of pasta—especially when it’s creamy, savory, and filled with flavors that remind you of home. That’s exactly what this “Penne Pasta, Peas and Bacon” recipe from Giangi’s Kitchen delivers. It’s the kind of dish that brings people together around the dinner table, whether it’s a regular weeknight or a casual weekend get-together. With just a handful of everyday ingredients, this pasta comes together in the time it takes to boil water and cook pasta. It’s quick, easy, and doesn’t require any fancy equipment or hard-to-find items.

This recipe shines in its simplicity. The penne pasta provides a sturdy base, perfect for holding on to the creamy sauce. The peas add a bright pop of sweetness, while the sautéed onion deepens the flavor. And then there’s the bacon—crispy, savory, and just the right amount of indulgent. A splash of heavy cream ties everything together into a silky, cohesive sauce that clings beautifully to the pasta.

I first came across this recipe during one of those evenings when I was craving something cozy but didn’t want to spend hours in the kitchen. After trying it once, it instantly earned a permanent spot in my rotation. The beauty of this dish is that it’s just as good for a solo dinner with leftovers for lunch as it is for feeding a table full of friends. And if you’re like me and always looking for a way to make a fast dinner feel just a little bit fancy—this one’s for you.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This pasta recipe has that perfect balance between comfort food and kitchen efficiency. There are so many reasons to love it, but let’s start with the basics:

Quick and easy preparation:
This dish is weeknight gold. The prep time lines up almost perfectly with the pasta cooking time. By the time the penne is al dente, your sauce is ready to toss everything together. That means you can have dinner on the table in under 30 minutes.

Minimal, pantry-friendly ingredients:
No need for a special trip to the store. Everything you need—penne pasta, frozen peas, onion, bacon, and cream—is likely already sitting in your fridge or pantry. It’s the kind of recipe that’s ready when you are.

Kid-approved and adult-loved:
The combination of creamy sauce, pasta, and crispy bacon is a crowd-pleaser for all ages. Kids love the simple flavors, and adults appreciate the subtle richness and comforting texture.

Rich and satisfying without being too heavy:
While the sauce uses heavy cream, it’s not overpowering. The sweet peas and fresh onion help lighten the dish, while the bacon brings savory depth.

Versatile and customizable:
You can make this your own with easy substitutions. Swap in turkey bacon for a halal-friendly version, use cream cheese and milk if you’re out of heavy cream, or toss in mushrooms for a meatless twist.

Whether you’re cooking for your family or just for yourself, this pasta dish checks all the boxes: easy, delicious, and ready to adapt to whatever you have on hand.

Health Benefits

While creamy Penne pasta i_isn’t typically labeled as a “health food,” this dish does have a few surprising nutritional benefits—especially when you consider the quality of ingredients and portion control.

High in protein and fiber:
Thanks to the combination of bacon (or turkey bacon) and peas, you’re getting a solid amount of protein and dietary fiber. Peas are a great source of plant-based protein, which supports muscle repair and keeps you fuller longer.

Rich in vitamins and minerals:
Green peas are packed with vitamins A, K, and C, plus essential minerals like magnesium and potassium. The onion adds antioxidants and compounds that support immune health.

Balanced energy:
The pasta provides complex carbohydrates that release energy gradually, helping you stay full and satisfied after your meal.

Customizable to dietary needs:
This dish can easily be made lighter with substitutions like low-fat milk or whole wheat pasta, and you can swap the bacon for mushrooms to reduce saturated fat while keeping the umami-rich flavor.

When enjoyed in moderation and balanced with a side of greens or a light salad, this pasta dish fits beautifully into a wholesome diet.

Preparation Time, Servings, and Nutritional Information

Total Time: 25–30 minutes
Servings: 4 hearty portions
Calories per serving: Approximately 475 kcal
Protein: 17g
Carbohydrates: 46g
Fat: 24g
Fiber: 5g

Ingredients List

Here’s everything you’ll need to make this delicious pasta dish:

• 12 oz penne pasta – This tube-shaped pasta holds the sauce beautifully and adds great texture.
• 1 cup frozen or fresh green peas – Adds sweetness and color to balance the richness.
• 1 small yellow onion, finely chopped – Provides aromatic depth and a savory base.
• 6 slices turkey bacon or beef bacon, chopped – Crisp and smoky, this is the flavor backbone of the dish.
• 1 cup heavy cream – Creates a silky, luscious sauce that binds everything together.
• Salt, to taste – Enhances all the flavors in the dish.
• Fresh ground black pepper, to taste – Adds a subtle kick and contrast.
• 1/2 cup grated Parmigiano Reggiano or Pecorino Romano (optional) – Adds umami and a salty finish.
• Reserved pasta water (about 1/4 cup) – Helps emulsify the sauce and adjust consistency.

Optional substitutions:

• Use olive oil or butter instead of bacon for a vegetarian version.
• Swap heavy cream with a mix of cream cheese and milk for a lighter alternative.
• Replace penne with fusilli or rigatoni if you prefer a different pasta shape.

Step-By-Step Cooking Instructions

1. Boil the pasta:
   Fill a large pot with water and bring it to a boil. Add a generous pinch of salt. Once boiling, add the penne pasta and stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
2. Cook peas with pasta:
   About 3 minutes before the pasta is done (check the package for timing), add the peas directly into the boiling water with the pasta. This saves time and an extra pan.
3. Sauté the bacon and onion:
   While the pasta cooks, place a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped turkey or beef bacon and cook until crispy, about 5–6 minutes. Remove with a slotted spoon and set aside. In the same skillet with the rendered fat, add the chopped onion and sauté until soft and golden, about 3–4 minutes.
4. Add the cream:
   Lower the heat and pour in the heavy cream. Stir to combine with the onions and bacon grease, and simmer gently for 2–3 minutes until slightly thickened.
5. Drain the pasta and peas:
   Reserve 1/4 cup of pasta water before draining. Then, drain the pasta and peas and immediately add them to the skillet with the cream sauce.
6. Combine everything:
   Toss the pasta, peas, and bacon in the sauce until fully coated. If the sauce feels too thick, add a splash of the reserved pasta water to loosen it up.
7. Season and finish:
   Taste and season with salt and black pepper as needed. Stir in cheese if using. Mix until everything is evenly combined and creamy.
8. Serve immediately:
   Transfer to plates or a large serving bowl and garnish with extra grated cheese if desired. Serve while hot.

How to Serve

This pasta is best served right away, while the sauce is silky and the pasta is tender. Here are a few serving ideas to make it a full meal:

• Serve with a simple green salad tossed in lemon vinaigrette.
• Add warm garlic bread or crusty rolls on the side.
• Sprinkle fresh parsley or basil on top for a pop of color and freshness.
• Offer extra grated cheese on the table for guests to add their own.

Pairing Suggestions

If you’re wondering what to serve with this pasta to create a more complete dining experience, here are a few suggestions:

Drinks:

• Try sparkling water with lemon for a refreshing contrast.
• Serve with a homemade fruit punch or pomegranate juice to keep it halal and vibrant.

Side dishes:

• A chilled cucumber and yogurt salad works well to offset the creaminess.
• Roasted broccoli or sautéed green beans make excellent, light sides.

Dessert:

• Finish with a scoop of lemon sorbet or a light custard pudding to cleanse the palate.

Storage, Freezing & Reheating Instructions

Refrigeration:
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. The sauce may thicken, but a splash of milk or water when reheating will bring it back to life.

Freezing:
Freeze individual portions in sealed containers for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Reheating:
Reheat on the stove over low heat with a little milk or reserved pasta water. Stir gently until warmed through. Alternatively, microwave in 30-second increments, stirring between each.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

1. Overcooking the pasta:
   Cook it just to al dente. It will continue to soften slightly when mixed with the sauce.
2. Skipping the pasta water:
   Don’t forget to reserve some pasta water. It helps blend the sauce and makes it creamy without extra fat.
3. Using watery cream alternatives without adjusting:
   If you swap heavy cream for milk or cream cheese, make sure to simmer it a little longer so it thickens properly.
4. Overloading with cheese too early:
   Add cheese at the end to avoid clumping or overly thick sauce.
5. Not draining peas well:
   If using frozen peas, make sure they’re not watery before adding them to the pot.

Pro Tips

• Crisp the bacon fully:
  Make sure the bacon is golden and crisp before removing it from the pan. This adds texture and flavor.
• Use fresh grated cheese:
  Freshly grated cheese melts better and adds a smoother finish to the sauce.
• Customize with add-ins:
  Toss in mushrooms, spinach, or even sun-dried tomatoes for added depth.
• Add herbs last:
  If using fresh herbs like parsley or basil, stir them in at the very end to preserve their flavor and color.
• Use a wide skillet:
  A larger skillet helps you mix everything together without the pasta falling out or clumping.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Can I use fresh peas instead of frozen?
Absolutely. Just make sure to blanch them briefly before adding to the pasta.

What if I don’t eat bacon?
Swap in sautéed mushrooms or use turkey sausage for a similar savory kick.

Can I make this ahead of time?
You can prepare the sauce and pasta separately, then combine and reheat just before serving.

Is this recipe kid-friendly?
Definitely. The creamy texture and mild flavors make it a hit with kids.

How can I make it spicier?
Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the cream sauce for a little heat.

Can I use a different type of pasta?
Yes! Fusilli, rigatoni, or shells all work beautifully.

How do I keep the pasta from sticking together?
Stir it occasionally while it cooks, and don’t over-drain it. A bit of moisture helps.

Is this dish halal?
Yes, as long as you use turkey or beef bacon and avoid any non-halal cheeses.

Can I freeze this with the cream sauce?
Yes, but reheat it gently to keep the sauce from separating.

What can I serve with this for a full meal?
Pair it with a salad, garlic bread, and a light fruit-based dessert.

Conclusion & Call to Action

Whether you’re looking for a cozy dinner after a long day or need a reliable dish that impresses without the stress, this “Penne Pasta, Peas and Bacon” recipe is a keeper. It’s fast, flavorful, and endlessly adaptable. Once you try it, you’ll see just how easy it is to create something that feels gourmet using simple pantry staples.

Give it a go this week and let me know how it turns out! Snap a photo and tag me—I’d love to see your version. And if you make any fun twists or substitutions, share those too. Cooking is all about making it your own. Enjoy every creamy, bacon-kissed bite!

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