If you’re looking to whip up something irresistibly comforting yet quick enough for a weeknight, this Creamy Farfalle with Peas and Bacon Recipe is your new go-to. The al dente bow-tie pasta perfectly cradles a luscious, velvety sauce studded with bright peas and crispy, smoky bacon pieces, making every bite a delightful contrast of textures and flavors. It’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser that takes just a handful of simple ingredients and transforms them into a creamy, dreamy dish you’ll want to make again and again.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Everything in this recipe is straightforward but packs a wonderful punch together. Each ingredient plays a vital role in balancing the rich creaminess with fresh, vibrant notes and savory depth.
- 12 ounces dried farfalle: The bow-tie shape holds onto sauce beautifully, giving you a perfect bite every time.
- 6 ounces lean bacon (chopped): Adds irresistible smoky crunch and depth, elevating the entire dish.
- 1 large garlic clove (pressed): Infuses the sauce with a subtle, aromatic warmth without overpowering.
- 1 1/4 cup heavy cream: Creates that rich, silky texture that makes this dish so comforting.
- 1 cup green peas (thawed if frozen): Brings a pop of sweetness, color, and subtle earthiness for balance.
- 2/3 cup grated parmesan cheese: Melts into the sauce to add sharp, nutty flavor with umami punch.
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley (chopped): Provides a fresh, herbal brightness to finish off the richness.
How to Make Creamy Farfalle with Peas and Bacon Recipe
Step 1: Cook the Farfalle
Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Salt is key because it seasons the pasta from the inside out. Add the farfalle and cook according to the package instructions until just al dente. Drain well and set aside—getting this right means your pasta will hold its texture under that creamy sauce.
Step 2: Sauté the Bacon
While the pasta cooks, heat a large skillet over high heat. Toss in the chopped bacon and sauté until golden and crispy, about 3 to 4 minutes. This step is where the magic begins—those crispy bacon pieces bring savory richness that pairs perfectly with the cream sauce. Once done, remove the pan from heat and blot excess fat with a paper towel to keep the final dish from feeling greasy.
Step 3: Add Garlic
Return the skillet to high heat and add the pressed garlic to the bacon. Sauté for about a minute until the garlic is fragrant but not browned. This simple step infuses the sauce base with aromatic warmth, preventing the cream from tasting flat.
Step 4: Make the Cream Sauce
Pour the heavy cream into the skillet and let it simmer gently for about 5 minutes. As it reduces, it thickens beautifully, turning into a rich, luscious sauce. Add the peas next and simmer for another 3 minutes to heat them through while retaining their lovely fresh bite and vibrant color.
Step 5: Stir in Parmesan Cheese
Sprinkle in the grated parmesan cheese, stirring thoroughly to melt it into the sauce. This step adds a sharp, savory depth that complements both the cream and bacon perfectly, binding everything together into a silky, indulgent flavor bomb.
Step 6: Combine Pasta and Sauce
Finally, pour the sauce over the cooked farfalle in the pot and toss gently to coat every bow-tie. Finish by stirring in the chopped fresh parsley—which adds just the right touch of herbal freshness to cut through the richness—and you’re ready to serve.
How to Serve Creamy Farfalle with Peas and Bacon Recipe
Garnishes
To take this dish to the next level, sprinkle extra parmesan cheese on top for added cheesiness and a grind of fresh black pepper for a bit of warmth. A few extra fresh parsley leaves not only brighten the color but also elevate the aroma invitingly.
Side Dishes
This creamy dish pairs beautifully with light, crisp sides to balance the richness. Think simple arugula salad dressed with lemon vinaigrette or roasted asparagus drizzled with olive oil and a pinch of sea salt. Garlic bread would also complement the sauce perfectly, soaking up every last bit.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, serve this creamy farfalle in individual shallow bowls topped with a crispy bacon strip artfully placed on the side. Alternatively, a sprinkle of toasted pine nuts or a drizzle of truffle oil can add an unexpected gourmet touch that impresses at gatherings or cozy dinners alike.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover creamy farfalle can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The sauce may thicken, so keep that in mind when reheating—it might need a splash of cream or milk to bring it back to that perfect silky texture.
Freezing
This dish freezes okay, but the cream sauce can change texture slightly when thawed. If you must freeze, pack it tightly without the parsley (add fresh parsley after reheating) and consume within 1 month for best flavor and texture.
Reheating
Gently reheat leftovers on the stove over low heat, stirring frequently and adding a little milk or cream to loosen the sauce. Microwave reheating is fine too—just cover the dish to retain moisture and stir midway to ensure even warming.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of pasta?
Absolutely! While farfalle is perfect for holding the sauce, penne or fusilli would also work wonderfully if that’s what you have on hand.
Can I substitute the bacon with something else?
Yes, smoked sausage or pancetta can be used for a similar smoky flavor. For a vegetarian twist, try crispy cooked mushrooms to keep that meaty texture.
Is there a lighter version of this Creamy Farfalle with Peas and Bacon Recipe?
You can swap heavy cream for half-and-half or use a mixture of milk and Greek yogurt to reduce fat, but the sauce won’t be quite as rich and indulgent.
Do I have to use frozen peas?
Nope! Fresh peas work beautifully especially in season. Just blanch them briefly to soften before adding to the sauce.
How creamy should the sauce be?
The sauce should be luscious and coat the pasta without being too runny or too thick—think smooth and silky with just enough body to cling to every bow-tie.
Final Thoughts
There’s something truly comforting about this Creamy Farfalle with Peas and Bacon Recipe that makes it a timeless favorite. It’s simple enough for a quick yet satisfying meal but special enough to serve company. Give it a try—you might just find yourself dreaming about bow-tie pasta in creamy, smoky heaven!
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Creamy Farfalle with Peas and Bacon Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian
Description
This creamy farfalle pasta with peas and bacon is a comforting and flavorful dish featuring tender bow-tie pasta coated in a rich parmesan cream sauce, complemented by crispy bacon and sweet green peas. Perfect for a satisfying weeknight meal, it balances savory and fresh flavors with an easy stovetop cooking method.
Ingredients
Pasta
- 12 ounces dried farfalle (bow-tie pasta)
Bacon and Sauce
- 6 ounces lean bacon (chopped)
- 1 large garlic clove (pressed)
- 1 1/4 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup green peas (thawed if frozen)
- 2/3 cup grated parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley (chopped)
Instructions
- Cook Pasta: Bring a medium pot of salted water to a boil. Add the farfalle and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain the pasta and set it aside.
- Cook Bacon: While the pasta cooks, heat a large skillet over high heat. Add the chopped bacon and sauté for 3 to 4 minutes until it is browned and crispy. Remove the skillet from heat and use a paper towel to soak up most of the bacon fat, leaving some for flavor.
- Sauté Garlic: Return the skillet with the bacon to high heat. Add the pressed garlic and sauté for about 1 minute, stirring constantly, until fragrant but not browned.
- Simmer Cream Sauce: Pour the heavy cream into the skillet and bring to a simmer over medium-high heat. Let it cook for about 5 minutes until slightly thickened.
- Add Peas: Stir the green peas into the cream sauce and return to a gentle simmer. Cook for an additional 3 minutes to heat the peas through.
- Add Cheese: Stir the grated parmesan cheese into the sauce until melted and fully incorporated.
- Combine Pasta and Sauce: Transfer the cooked farfalle back into the pot or a large mixing bowl. Pour the creamy bacon and pea sauce over the pasta, then stir in the chopped fresh parsley until evenly combined. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Notes
- Use lean bacon to keep the dish from becoming too greasy.
- If using frozen peas, thaw them before adding to the sauce for even cooking.
- Heavy cream can be substituted with half-and-half for a lighter sauce, though it will be less rich.
- Parmesan cheese can be freshly grated for the best flavor and melting qualities.
- Adjust the salt carefully as bacon and parmesan already contribute saltiness.
- Fresh parsley adds a nice color contrast and fresh herbal note; you can substitute with basil if desired.
