Transform simple kitchen staples into a surprisingly elevated meal with this quick and easy recipe that adapts to whatever you have on hand!
Sometimes simple is best. That’s particularly true for weeknight dinners. I can’t count the number of times I came home from work hungry—with no idea of what to make and even less energy for cooking—and let the contents of my fridge and pantry lead me to a plain yet satisfying meal.
This pasta with peas and bacon is a perfect example. It’s not at all fancy, but it delivers a surprisingly nuanced flavor profile. Bacon makes everything better, and its savory saltiness really shines in this dish. It adds meaty satisfaction to every bite, and its rendered fat creates depth and character in the light sauce. The peas also soak up some of the bacon’s savory notes as they cook, balancing their bright, slightly sweet flavors. And when you stir in the Parmesan, the sauce becomes creamier and a little tangier. Overall, this dish strikes the perfect balance of light yet comforting notes.
Plus, it comes together in half an hour and is flexible enough to adapt to whatever you’ve got on hand. Keep this easy recipe in your back pocket for those times when you need a meal that’s quick and easy yet elevated and flavorful!
Nearly endless pasta possibilities
This dish offers nearly endless possibilities for swaps and customizations. For example:
- Use pancetta, prosciutto, or thick-cut smoked bacon for deeper flavor or a slightly different texture.
- Swap frozen peas for fresh or spring peas when in season for sweetness and vibrant color.
- Add finely chopped shallots, onions, or garlic to the bacon fat before tossing in the peas for extra aromatic depth.
- Toss in baby spinach, arugula, or sautéed mushrooms for more nutrition and a heartier meal.
- Finish with fresh herbs such as parsley, basil, or mint for a burst of brightness and freshness.
- Sub in pecorino Romano or Grana Padano for the Parmesan to get a sharper or more robust cheese profile.
- Try alternate pasta shapes like penne, rigatoni, fusilli, orecchiette, small shells—or gluten-free options like chickpea or lentil pasta. Each one captures the sauce and bacon pieces differently.
- Use cheese tortellini or gnocchi for a more indulgent twist and extra Italian flair.
How do I store leftovers?
Let your pasta with peas and bacon cool completely before storing, but don’t leave it at room temp for more than 2 hours. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. Or freeze them for up to 3 months in a freezer-safe container or resealable bag—and expect the pasta’s texture to soften. Thaw overnight in the fridge. Reheat gently on the stovetop, adding a splash of water to revive creaminess and tossing to recombine any separated ingredients.
Serving suggestions
Serve pasta with peas and bacon on its own for a light meal. Or pair it with a seasonal side, like a Winter Salad or this Arugula Caprese Salad With Lemon Basil Dressing. For a heartier dinner, serve it alongside quick and easy mains, like Panko-Crusted Salmon or a Perfect Stovetop Chicken Breast.
Pasta With Peas And Bacon
Ingredients
- 12 ounces spaghetti or linguine
- 8 slices bacon chopped
- 1 cup frozen peas
- 1/2 cup Parmesan cheese grated, plus more for serving
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook until al dente, stirring occasionally, about 7-10 minutes. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water, then drain and set aside.
- Heat a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped bacon and cook, stirring occasionally, until golden and crispy, about 8 minutes. With a slotted spoon, transfer the bacon to a paper towel-lined plate to drain. Carefully pour off all but 1–2 tablespoons of bacon fat from the skillet.
- Add the frozen peas to the skillet with the reserved bacon fat. Cook and stir until heated through, about 3-4 minutes.
- Return the cooked bacon to the skillet with the peas. Add the drained pasta and half of the reserved pasta water. Toss well over medium heat for 1–2 minutes until combined and hot.
- Remove from heat and sprinkle the grated Parmesan cheese over the pasta. Toss thoroughly until the cheese melts and forms a light sauce. Add more reserved pasta water as needed to reach a creamy consistency.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve immediately with extra Parmesan, if desired.
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