Description
This Penne Pasta with Peas and Turkey-Bacon is a delightful combination of tender pasta, sweet peas, and crispy turkey bacon, all tossed in a savory sauce. It’s a comforting, yet light dish perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients
For the Penne Pasta with Peas and Turkey-Bacon:
- 1 lb penne pasta (or your preferred pasta)
- 8 oz turkey-bacon, diced
- 1 cup frozen peas (or fresh peas, if available)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup heavy cream (or half-and-half for a lighter version)
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese (plus extra for serving)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped (optional, for garnish)
- 1 teaspoon lemon zest (optional, for a hint of freshness)
- 1 tablespoon butter (optional, for extra richness)
Instructions
Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the penne pasta and cook according to the package instructions, usually about 9-11 minutes, until al dente. Once the pasta is cooked, reserve about 1 cup of pasta water and then drain the pasta in a colander. Set it aside.
While the pasta is cooking, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the diced turkey-bacon and cook for 5-7 minutes, or until the bacon becomes crispy and golden brown. Stir occasionally to ensure the turkey-bacon cooks evenly and doesn’t burn.
Once cooked, remove the bacon from the skillet and set it aside on a plate lined with paper towels to absorb any excess grease.
In the same skillet, add another tablespoon of olive oil (or butter if you want extra richness). Lower the heat slightly and add the minced garlic to the pan. Sauté the garlic for about 1-2 minutes, or until it becomes fragrant but not browned. Be careful not to burn the garlic, as this can make it taste bitter.
Next, add the heavy cream (or half-and-half) to the skillet with the garlic. Stir to combine, scraping up any bits of bacon or garlic stuck to the pan. Let the cream simmer for 3-5 minutes, allowing it to thicken slightly.
Once the sauce has thickened, stir in the Parmesan cheese. The cheese will melt into the sauce, adding a creamy texture and rich flavor. Season the sauce with salt and pepper to taste.
Add the frozen peas to the sauce and cook for another 2-3 minutes, or until they are heated through and tender. If you’re using fresh peas, you may need to cook them for an additional minute or two.
Then, gently fold the cooked pasta into the sauce, stirring to coat the pasta evenly. If the sauce is too thick, add a bit of the reserved pasta water, one tablespoon at a time, until you reach your desired consistency.
Once the pasta is well coated with the sauce, add the crispy turkey-bacon back into the skillet and stir to combine. The bacon will add a smoky flavor and crunch that complements the creamy sauce and tender pasta.
If you’re using lemon zest or fresh parsley, sprinkle them on top of the pasta for added brightness and color. Taste the dish and adjust seasoning if necessary.
Serve the Penne Pasta with Peas and Turkey-Bacon in individual bowls or a large serving platter. Top with extra grated Parmesan cheese for an added flavor boost.
Your delicious Penne Pasta with Peas and Turkey-Bacon is ready to enjoy. Serve it immediately while it’s warm and creamy, and enjoy the comforting flavors of this easy-to-make pasta dish.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
Nutrition
- Calories: 500-550 kcal
- Fat: 15-18g
- Carbohydrates: 60-65g
- Protein: 25-28g