Creamy Shells with Peas and Bacon
Indulge in the comforting flavors of Creamy Shells with Peas and Bacon, a quick and satisfying pasta dish that’s perfect for weeknight dinners or casual gatherings. Tender medium pasta shells are coated in a rich, velvety Parmesan cheese sauce, featuring hints of garlic and a touch of cream for ultimate indulgence. Crispy, smoky bacon lends a savory crunch, while sweet, tender peas add a pop of color and freshness. This one-pan wonder comes together in just 30 minutes, making it ideal for busy schedules without sacrificing flavor. Garnish with a sprinkle of fresh parsley for a restaurant-worthy finishing touch. Whether you're craving comfort food or looking for a crowd-pleasing entrée, this creamy pasta recipe will become a family favorite. Perfect for those searching for "easy creamy pasta recipes" or "pasta with bacon and peas."
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Recipe Information
Ingredients
- 12 ounces medium pasta shells
- 6 slices bacon
- 1 cup frozen peas
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 2 cups milk
- 0.5 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup Parmesan cheese, grated
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 0.5 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (optional for garnish)
Instructions
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the pasta shells according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1/2 cup of the pasta water, then drain the pasta and set it aside.
While the pasta cooks, heat a large skillet over medium heat. Add the bacon slices and cook until crispy, about 5-7 minutes. Transfer the cooked bacon to a paper towel-lined plate and crumble once cooled. Carefully remove excess bacon grease from the skillet, leaving about 1 tablespoon behind.
In the same skillet, add the butter and allow it to melt over medium heat. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for 1 minute, stirring frequently, until fragrant.
Sprinkle the flour into the skillet and whisk continuously for 1-2 minutes until the flour is lightly golden and forms a paste.
Slowly pour in the milk while whisking to create a smooth sauce. Add the heavy cream and continue whisking. Cook the mixture for 3-4 minutes, stirring frequently, until it begins to thicken.
Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese, salt, and black pepper. Mix until the cheese has melted and the sauce is smooth.
Add the frozen peas to the sauce and cook for 2-3 minutes until warmed through.
Reduce the heat to low, then add the cooked pasta shells and crumbled bacon to the skillet. Stir everything together until the pasta is evenly coated in the creamy sauce. If the sauce is too thick, stir in a bit of the reserved pasta water, one tablespoon at a time, until your desired consistency is reached.
Taste and adjust the seasoning with additional salt and pepper if needed. Garnish with fresh parsley if desired and serve immediately.
Nutrition Facts
Calories |
2806 | ||
|---|---|---|---|
% Daily Value* |
|||
| Total Fat | 120.3 g | 154% | |
| Saturated Fat | 65.8 g | 329% | |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 4.0 g | ||
| Cholesterol | 357 mg | 119% | |
| Sodium | 4938 mg | 215% | |
| Total Carbohydrate | 310.2 g | 113% | |
| Dietary Fiber | 20.2 g | 72% | |
| Total Sugars | 45.1 g | ||
| Protein | 117.9 g | 236% | |
| Vitamin D | 5.7 mcg | 28% | |
| Calcium | 1644 mg | 126% | |
| Iron | 9.2 mg | 51% | |
| Potassium | 1931 mg | 41% | |
*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.
