I’ll never forget the first time I threw together a Penne Pasta dish for my family. It was a chaotic Wednesday evening, and Sarah, my amazing spouse, was running late from work. Our kids—Max, Ellie, and Noah—were bouncing off the walls, hungry and impatient.
I needed something quick, hearty, and guaranteed to please everyone. As a dad who’s all about keeping things simple, I raided the pantry, grabbed some Penne Pasta, frozen peas, and a pack of turkey bacon, and got to work. One pot, minimal mess—that’s my style.
Within 20 minutes, the kitchen smelled like comfort, with the savory aroma of turkey bacon mixing with creamy sauce. When Sarah walked in, she smiled, and the kids cheered as I plated up. Max even asked for seconds, which is a rare win!
That night, over steaming bowls of pasta, we laughed about Ellie’s school story and Noah’s latest art project. It wasn’t just dinner; it was a moment. That’s why I love one-pot meals like this Penne Pasta recipe—they’re not just food, they’re family.
Now, I’m excited to share this easy dish with you, straight from our table to yours.
Why This Dish Is a Must-Try
Looking for a meal that’s quick, comforting, and a hit with everyone? This Penne Pasta recipe with peas and turkey bacon checks all the boxes. It’s a family-friendly dish that blends savory flavors with creamy goodness, perfect for busy nights or cozy weekends.
- Quick Preparation: Ready in under 30 minutes, this dish is ideal for hectic evenings when you need a fast, filling meal without sacrificing taste.
- Minimal Cleanup: As a one-pot wonder, it cuts down on dishes, leaving you more time to relax with loved ones after dinner.
- Kid-Approved: The sweet peas and creamy sauce make it a favorite with picky eaters, ensuring everyone at the table is happy.
- Versatile Flavors: Easily adapt this recipe with different proteins or veggies, making it a go-to for using up pantry staples.
Ingredients for Penne Pasta
Creating a delicious Penne Pasta dish starts with simple, quality ingredients. This recipe uses everyday items you likely already have, ensuring a stress-free cooking experience with big flavor.
- Penne Pasta: 12 oz, perfect for holding onto creamy sauces with its ridged texture.
- Turkey Bacon: 6 slices, diced, for a smoky, savory bite without overpowering the dish.
- Frozen Peas: 1 cup, adding sweetness and a pop of color effortlessly.
- Yellow Onion: 1 medium, finely chopped, for a subtle, sweet depth of flavor.
- Heavy Cream: 1 cup, to bind the flavors with a rich, velvety texture.
- Salt and Pepper: To taste, enhancing all the natural flavors in the dish.
Step-by-Step: Mastering Penne Pasta with Nolan
Let’s dive into making this comforting Penne Pasta dish. With just a few steps, you’ll have a hearty meal on the table that’s perfect for any night of the week. Follow along for success!
- Cook the Pasta: Boil a large pot of salted water. Add penne and cook until al dente, about 10-12 minutes. Add peas in the last 2 minutes. Drain, reserving ½ cup pasta water.
- Cook Turkey Bacon: In a large skillet, cook diced turkey bacon over medium heat until crispy, about 5 minutes. Remove and set aside, leaving the grease in the pan.
- Sauté Onion: Add chopped onion to the skillet with turkey bacon grease. Cook for 3-4 minutes until soft and golden, stirring occasionally for even flavor.
- Create Sauce: Pour heavy cream into the skillet with onions. Stir in crispy turkey bacon and simmer for 2 minutes until slightly thickened. Adjust with reserved pasta water if needed.
- Combine: Add cooked penne and peas to the skillet. Toss to coat in the creamy sauce. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Heat through for 1 minute.
- Serve: Dish out immediately, ensuring each plate gets a mix of pasta, peas, and turkey bacon. Enjoy hot for the best flavor!
Nolan’s No-Nonsense Cooking Tips
Here are my tried-and-true tips to make this dish shine every time.
Penne Pasta Perfection: Savor This Creamy Dream Dish!
Ingredients for Penne Pasta
Step-by-Step: Mastering Penne Pasta with Nolan
Notes
Enjoy your homemade Penne Pasta Perfection: Savor This Creamy Dream Dish!!
- Pasta Texture: Cook penne al dente as it’ll keep cooking in the sauce. Test a piece a minute before the package time—it should have a slight bite for perfect results.
- Flavor Boost: Don’t skip salting the pasta water. It’s your only chance to season the pasta itself, giving the whole dish a deeper, more balanced taste.
- Sauce Control: Reserve pasta water to adjust creaminess. The starch in the water helps the sauce cling to the pasta without needing extra cream.
Flavor Hacks & Easy Variations for Penne Pasta
Switch up this dish with simple tweaks to keep things fresh. These variations let you customize flavors to your family’s taste or use what’s on hand.
- Meatless Option: Skip turkey bacon and use olive oil to sauté onions. Add sliced mushrooms for a hearty, umami kick that mimics the savory depth of meat.
- Protein Swap: Replace turkey bacon with diced chicken breast. Cook it in the skillet first, then proceed with onions for a leaner, still-flavorful dish.
- Veggie Boost: Toss in spinach or diced bell peppers with the peas. They add color, nutrients, and a fresh contrast to the creamy sauce.
Best Ways to Serve Penne Pasta
Elevate your meal with these perfect pairings that complement the creamy, savory flavors of this dish. They’re easy to whip up alongside.
- Garlic Bread: A crispy slice of garlic bread is ideal for soaking up the creamy sauce. It adds a satisfying crunch and garlicky warmth to every bite.
- Green Salad: A simple salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and balsamic dressing offers a fresh, light balance to the rich pasta.
- Steamed Broccoli: Lightly seasoned broccoli brings a healthy, vibrant side that pairs well with the dish’s comforting textures and flavors.
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Conclusion
This Penne Pasta recipe is more than just a meal—it’s a lifesaver for busy days. With its creamy texture, sweet peas, and savory turkey bacon, it brings comfort to any table in under 30 minutes.
Ready to make dinner a breeze? Try this recipe tonight and see why it’s a family favorite. Share your thoughts or variations in the comments—I’d love to hear how it turned out for you!
A Final Note from Nolan’s Table
Every bite of this Penne Pasta takes me back to that chaotic night with Sarah and the kids. It’s proof that simple meals create the best memories. Drop a comment with your family’s reaction—I can’t wait to read about it!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
How many carbs are in penne pasta?
For accurate tracking, check the package label, as enriched or specialty Penne Pasta may differ in nutritional content.
Is penne pasta healthy?
Pair it with vegetables, lean proteins, and healthy fats like olive oil for a balanced meal. Portion size matters—overindulging can lead to excess calorie intake.
What type of pasta is penne?
Penne’s ridges or smooth surface make it ideal for holding onto sauces, especially chunky ones like marinara or meat-based ragu. It’s a versatile choice for baked dishes, salads, or simple tossed meals.
Is penne or spaghetti healthier for weight loss?
Choose whole wheat versions of either for added fiber. Focus on pairing with low-calorie, nutrient-dense sauces and veggies rather than heavy creams for better weight management.
What is the healthiest pasta you can eat?
These alternatives have a lower glycemic index, helping with blood sugar control. Always check labels for added sugars or preservatives, and prioritize balanced meals with veggies.
