Airy pasta, tender peas, and crisp beef bacon combine to create a delightful dish that warms the soul. This combination of flavors not only makes for a pleasing meal but also offers a satisfying crunch paired with the softness of the pasta. I’ve always found this dish to be a comforting choice, especially after a long day.
Penne Pasta with Beef Bacon
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Diet: Non-Vegetarian
Description
A comforting dish of airy penne pasta, tender peas, and crispy beef bacon that’s perfect for weeknight meals or casual gatherings.
Ingredients
- 8 oz penne pasta
- 4 oz beef bacon (or other preferred meat)
- 1 cup fresh or frozen peas
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1/4 cup Parmesan cheese, grated
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the penne pasta according to package instructions until al dente.
- In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the beef bacon and cook until crispy. Remove from the skillet and set aside.
- In the same skillet, sauté chopped onion and minced garlic until fragrant.
- Stir in the peas and cook for a couple of minutes until heated through.
- Drain the pasta, then add it to the skillet along with the beef bacon. Toss everything together, season with salt and pepper, and sprinkle with Parmesan cheese before serving.
Notes
This dish pairs well with a light salad and a side of garlic bread. You can add fresh herbs like basil or parsley for extra flavor.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Cooking
- Cuisine: Italian
Why you’ll love this dish
The blend of peas with beef bacon adds a unique flavor profile that’s hard to resist. Additionally, the green peas provide a pop of color and nutrition, making every bite both vibrant and healthy. This dish is perfect for a casual gathering or a comforting weeknight meal.
“This recipe became an instant favorite! The balance of flavors is just perfect.”
How this recipe comes together
Creating this dish involves a few key steps that come together seamlessly. You’ll start by cooking the pasta, then adding the beef bacon until it’s crispy, and finally folding in the peas to warm them through. This process not only ensures that each ingredient shines but also keeps prep and cooking time efficient.
Prep Time: 10 min | Cook Time: 20 min | Total Time: 30 min
What you’ll need
- Penne pasta
- Beef bacon (or other preferred meat)
- Fresh or frozen peas
- Onion
- Garlic
- Olive oil
- Parmesan cheese
- Salt and pepper
If you’re looking for variety, feel free to adjust the type of pasta or cheese based on what you have on hand.
Step-by-step instructions
- Begin by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the penne pasta according to package instructions until al dente.
- In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the beef bacon and cook until crispy. Remove from the skillet and set aside.
- In the same skillet, sauté chopped onion and minced garlic until fragrant.
- Stir in the peas and cook for a couple of minutes until heated through.
- Drain the pasta, then add it to the skillet along with the beef bacon. Toss everything together, season with salt and pepper, and sprinkle with Parmesan cheese before serving.
Best ways to enjoy it
This dish pairs wonderfully with a light salad, a side of garlic bread, or a glass of white wine to elevate the dining experience. You could also add a sprinkle of fresh herbs, such as basil or parsley, for a fragrant finish.
Storage and reheating tips
To keep leftovers fresh, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. When reheating, a quick toss in a skillet with a splash of water or broth can help revive the pasta’s texture. If you plan to store it for longer, consider freezing it in portions.
Helpful cooking tips
For an extra flavor boost, try adding a squeeze of lemon juice or a dash of red pepper flakes when serving. If you want more vegetables, consider adding spinach or bell peppers while sautéing the onion and garlic.
Creative twists
Feel free to experiment with various proteins like grilled chicken or turkey bacon. Additionally, you might consider adding a handful of fresh spinach just before serving for added color and nutrition.
FAQ
Can I use another type of pasta?
Certainly! While penne is a classic choice, any pasta shape you enjoy will work well.
What can I substitute for beef bacon?
Turkey bacon or even a vegetarian bacon alternative can replace beef bacon if you prefer.
How can I make this dish vegetarian?
Skip the bacon and use vegetable broth and more veggies to increase substance. You can also add chickpeas for protein.