Description
Creamy Pasta with Turkey Bacon & Peas is a comforting and satisfying dish that combines the richness of a creamy sauce with the smoky goodness of turkey bacon and the sweetness of peas. This recipe offers a healthier twist on traditional creamy pasta dishes, using turkey bacon to cut down on fat while still delivering that savory, smoky flavor. The combination of tender pasta, creamy sauce, and crunchy turkey bacon creates a perfect balance of textures and tastes. It’s a versatile dish that can be made quickly for a weeknight dinner or served at a casual gathering. Plus, the addition of peas adds a pop of color and a touch of sweetness that complements the savory bacon perfectly. Whether you’re cooking for yourself or feeding a family, this easy-to-make dish will become a fast favorite.
Ingredients
- 12 oz pasta: Any type of pasta works well here, but penne or spaghetti is especially great for this dish.
- 6 slices turkey bacon: This will add a smoky, crispy flavor that perfectly complements the creamy sauce. Turkey bacon is a leaner option than regular bacon, making this a slightly healthier choice.
- 1 cup frozen peas: A pop of sweetness and color that balances the richness of the cream.
- 1 tablespoon olive oil: To cook the turkey bacon and start building the base for the creamy sauce.
- 2 cloves garlic, minced: Adds depth and flavor to the sauce.
- 1 cup heavy cream: For a luxurious, velvety texture that makes the sauce smooth and rich.
- ½ cup chicken broth: To thin the sauce and make it more flavorful, while adding a bit of savory depth.
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard: Adds a subtle tanginess that brightens the dish and balances the creaminess.
- Salt and pepper to taste: Essential for seasoning the dish.
- Freshly grated Parmesan cheese: For a final sprinkle that enhances the richness and adds a bit of nuttiness.
Instructions
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
Start by boiling a large pot of salted water. Add your pasta and cook it according to the package instructions, typically 8-10 minutes until al dente. Drain the pasta, but save about 1 cup of pasta water to use later for adjusting the sauce. Set the pasta aside while you work on the turkey bacon and creamy sauce.
Step 2: Cook the Turkey Bacon
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the turkey bacon slices and cook until crispy, about 5-7 minutes, turning occasionally to ensure even cooking. Once crispy, remove the bacon from the pan and set it on a paper towel-lined plate to drain. Once cooled, crumble the turkey bacon into smaller pieces. Keep the turkey bacon grease in the pan—this will flavor the sauce and help make it extra delicious.
Step 3: Make the Creamy Sauce
In the same pan, add the minced garlic to the turkey bacon grease and sauté for 1-2 minutes, just until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic, as it can turn bitter. Add the chicken broth and scrape up any bits of turkey bacon stuck to the bottom of the pan. Stir in the heavy cream, Dijon mustard, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Bring the mixture to a simmer and let it cook for 3-5 minutes, allowing it to thicken slightly.
Step 4: Add the Peas and Turkey Bacon
Add the frozen peas to the creamy sauce and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, until the peas are heated through. Then, stir in the crumbled turkey bacon and let everything meld together for another minute.
Step 5: Combine Pasta and Sauce
Add the cooked pasta directly into the pan with the sauce. Toss to combine, making sure the pasta is well-coated with the creamy sauce. If the sauce is too thick, you can add a bit of the reserved pasta water to loosen it up. Taste and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper as needed.
Step 6: Serve and Garnish
Serve the pasta in bowls, and finish with a generous sprinkle of freshly grated Parmesan cheese. For a bit of freshness, you can garnish with chopped parsley or fresh basil.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
Nutrition
- Calories: 450 kcal
- Fat: 22g
- Carbohydrates: 50g
- Protein: 20g