Introduction to Creamy Shell Pasta with Bacon & Peas
Welcome to my kitchen, where I whip up delicious meals that bring joy to the table! Today, I’m excited to share my recipe for Creamy Shell Pasta with Bacon & Peas. This dish is a lifesaver on those busy weeknights when you crave something comforting yet quick. Picture this: tender pasta shells enveloped in a rich, creamy sauce, with crispy bacon and sweet peas adding bursts of flavor. It’s a delightful way to impress your loved ones without spending hours in the kitchen. Trust me, this recipe will become a favorite in no time!
Why You’ll Love This Creamy Shell Pasta with Bacon & Peas
This Creamy Shell Pasta with Bacon & Peas is a dream come true for busy cooks like me! It’s incredibly easy to make, taking just 30 minutes from start to finish. The combination of crispy bacon and sweet peas creates a flavor explosion that’s hard to resist. Plus, it’s a one-pan wonder, which means less cleanup and more time to enjoy your meal. What’s not to love?
Ingredients for Creamy Shell Pasta with Bacon & Peas
Gathering the right ingredients is the first step to creating a delicious Creamy Shell Pasta with Bacon & Peas. Here’s what you’ll need:
- Pasta shells: These little beauties hold the creamy sauce perfectly. You can use any pasta shape you like, but shells are my favorite for this dish.
- Bacon: Thick-cut bacon adds a savory crunch. If you prefer a lighter option, turkey bacon works well too.
- Unsalted butter: This adds richness to the dish. You can substitute with olive oil for a healthier twist.
- Garlic: Freshly minced garlic brings a fragrant aroma. If you’re in a pinch, garlic powder can be used.
- Onion: A finely chopped onion adds sweetness and depth. Shallots are a great alternative if you want a milder flavor.
- Frozen peas: These little green gems add a pop of color and sweetness. Fresh peas can be used if you have them on hand.
- Heavy cream: This is the star of the creamy sauce. For a lighter version, half-and-half or whole milk can be substituted.
- Whole milk: It balances the richness of the cream. You can skip it if you want a thicker sauce.
- Parmesan cheese: Grated Parmesan adds a salty, nutty flavor. Feel free to use Pecorino Romano for a sharper taste.
- Salt & black pepper: Essential for seasoning. Adjust to your taste, but don’t skip them!
- Fresh parsley: Chopped parsley adds a fresh touch and brightens the dish. Basil or chives can be delightful substitutes.
For exact quantities, check the bottom of the article where you can find everything listed for easy printing!
How to Make Creamy Shell Pasta with Bacon & Peas
Now that we have our ingredients ready, let’s dive into the fun part: making this Creamy Shell Pasta with Bacon & Peas. Follow these simple steps, and you’ll have a delicious meal in no time!
Step 1: Boil the Pasta
Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Once it’s bubbling like a hot spring, add the pasta shells. Cook them until they’re al dente, which usually takes about 8-10 minutes. Remember to stir occasionally to prevent sticking. When they’re done, drain the pasta, but don’t forget to reserve half a cup of that starchy pasta water. It’s liquid gold for our sauce!
Step 2: Cook the Bacon
In a large skillet, cook the diced bacon over medium heat. Let it sizzle until it’s crispy and golden brown, which should take about 5-7 minutes. The aroma will be heavenly! Once it’s ready, use a slotted spoon to remove the bacon and set it aside. Leave about a tablespoon of the bacon fat in the pan; it’s packed with flavor!
Step 3: Sauté the Aromatics
Now, add the unsalted butter to the skillet with the bacon fat. As it melts, toss in the finely chopped onion. Sauté until the onion becomes translucent, about 3-4 minutes. Then, add the minced garlic and cook for another minute. The smell will make your kitchen feel like a cozy Italian trattoria!
Step 4: Create the Creamy Sauce
Pour in the heavy cream and whole milk, stirring gently until it’s heated through. Then, add the grated Parmesan cheese. Whisk it all together until the sauce is smooth and creamy. Season with salt and black pepper to taste. If you want a little kick, a pinch of red pepper flakes can add a nice touch!
Step 5: Combine Ingredients
Now it’s time to bring everything together! Add the cooked pasta shells and thawed peas into the skillet. Toss them in the creamy sauce until they’re well coated. Stir in the crispy bacon, saving a bit for garnish. If the sauce feels too thick, add a splash of the reserved pasta water to loosen it up.
Step 6: Garnish and Serve
Finally, it’s time to serve this delightful dish! Plate the pasta and sprinkle with extra Parmesan cheese and chopped fresh parsley for a pop of color. Serve warm, and if you’re feeling fancy, pair it with garlic bread or a fresh side salad. Enjoy every creamy, savory bite!
Tips for Success
- Always reserve some pasta water; it helps adjust the sauce consistency.
- Don’t overcook the pasta; it should be al dente for the best texture.
- Feel free to customize with your favorite veggies like spinach or mushrooms.
- For extra flavor, try adding a splash of white wine to the sauce.
- Serve immediately for the creamiest experience; leftovers can thicken.
Equipment Needed
- Large pot: For boiling pasta. A deep saucepan works too.
- Skillet: A non-stick skillet is ideal for cooking bacon and making the sauce.
- Slotted spoon: Perfect for removing bacon without the grease.
- Measuring cups: Handy for measuring liquids like cream and milk.
- Whisk: Essential for mixing the sauce until smooth.
Variations
- Vegetarian Delight: Skip the bacon and add sautéed mushrooms or roasted red peppers for a hearty twist.
- Spicy Kick: Incorporate diced jalapeños or a sprinkle of crushed red pepper flakes for a spicy version.
- Herb Infusion: Experiment with fresh herbs like basil or thyme to elevate the flavor profile.
- Gluten-Free Option: Use gluten-free pasta shells to make this dish suitable for gluten-sensitive diners.
- Protein Boost: Add cooked chicken or shrimp for an extra protein punch that will satisfy your hunger.
Serving Suggestions
- Garlic Bread: Serve warm, buttery garlic bread on the side for a delightful crunch.
- Side Salad: A fresh green salad with a light vinaigrette complements the creamy pasta beautifully.
- Wine Pairing: A crisp white wine, like Pinot Grigio, enhances the flavors of the dish.
- Presentation: Garnish with extra parsley and Parmesan for a restaurant-style finish.
FAQs about Creamy Shell Pasta with Bacon & Peas
Can I make this Creamy Shell Pasta with Bacon & Peas ahead of time?
While this dish is best enjoyed fresh, you can prepare the components ahead. Cook the pasta and bacon, then store them separately. When you’re ready to eat, just combine everything and heat it up!
What can I substitute for heavy cream in this recipe?
If you want a lighter version, half-and-half or whole milk works well. You can also use a plant-based cream for a dairy-free option.
How do I store leftovers of Creamy Shell Pasta with Bacon & Peas?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Just remember, the pasta may thicken, so add a splash of milk or water when reheating!
Can I add more vegetables to this dish?
Absolutely! Feel free to toss in some spinach, mushrooms, or even bell peppers for added flavor and nutrition. Just sauté them along with the onions.
Is this recipe suitable for gluten-free diets?
Yes! Simply use gluten-free pasta shells, and you can enjoy this delicious Creamy Shell Pasta with Bacon & Peas without any worries.
Final Thoughts
Cooking this Creamy Shell Pasta with Bacon & Peas is like wrapping yourself in a warm, comforting hug after a long day. The blend of creamy sauce, crispy bacon, and sweet peas creates a symphony of flavors that dance on your palate. It’s a dish that not only fills your belly but also warms your heart. Whether you’re sharing it with family or enjoying a quiet night in, this recipe brings joy to the table. I hope it becomes a cherished part of your culinary adventures, just as it has in mine!
Print
Creamy Shell Pasta with Bacon & Peas: A Quick Delight!
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
A quick and delicious creamy shell pasta dish with crispy bacon and peas, perfect for a weeknight dinner.
Ingredients
- 12 oz (340 g) pasta shells
- 6 slices thick-cut bacon, diced
- 2 tbsp unsalted butter
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 1 ½ cups frozen peas (thawed)
- 1 cup heavy cream
- ½ cup whole milk
- ½ cup Parmesan cheese, grated (plus extra for garnish)
- Salt & black pepper, to taste
- 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
Instructions
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
- Cook pasta shells until al dente. Drain, reserving ½ cup of pasta water.
- In a large skillet, cook diced bacon over medium heat until crispy. Remove bacon with a slotted spoon and set aside, leaving about 1 tbsp of bacon fat in the pan.
- Add butter to the skillet with bacon fat. Sauté onion until translucent, then add garlic and cook for 1 minute.
- Pour in cream and milk, stirring until heated through. Add Parmesan and whisk until smooth and creamy. Season with salt and pepper.
- Add pasta shells and peas into the skillet, tossing to coat in sauce. Stir in crispy bacon, reserving some for topping. Add a splash of pasta water if sauce is too thick.
- Garnish with extra Parmesan and fresh parsley. Serve warm with garlic bread or a side salad.
Notes
- For a lighter version, you can use half-and-half instead of heavy cream.
- Feel free to add other vegetables like spinach or mushrooms for extra flavor.
- This dish is best served immediately but can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Pasta
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 550
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 800mg
- Fat: 30g
- Saturated Fat: 15g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 50g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 20g
- Cholesterol: 80mg
