Creamy Lemon Pasta with Bacon and Peas is a quick and comforting Italian-inspired pasta dish that brings together crispy bacon, sweet peas, and a light, zesty creamy sauce. Ready in just 25 minutes, this recipe is ideal for busy weeknights or a satisfying weekend meal. With a few simple ingredients and fresh herbs, it’s both flavourful and easy to make—perfect for the whole family!
Ingredients for Creamy Lemon Pasta with Bacon and Peas
Bright, zesty, and creamy, this creamy lemon pasta dish is not only delicious but also quick to make with just a few simple ingredients. Here’s what you need:
- Bacon: Smoky, savoury flavour and crispy texture.
- Mini-shell pasta: Use any small pasta shape that catches the sauce well.
- Peas: Sweet, tender, and fresh.
- Crème fraîche: Adds creaminess without overpowering the lemon.
- Fresh mint and lemon juice: Bright, zesty notes that elevate the dish.
- Parmesan cheese: Salty and rich, adding depth and umami flavour.
With these ingredients, you’ll create a light, flavourful pasta that’s perfect for any day of the week!
Easy Lemon Pasta with Peas and Bacon in 3 Simple Steps
This recipe comes together in no time at all! With crispy bacon, tender peas, and a creamy lemon-Parmesan sauce, you’ll have a delicious dinner ready faster than you think. The best part? It’s all done in just 25 minutes. While the pasta cooks, you can quickly whip up the sauce, making this dish a go-to for busy weeknights or whenever you need a fast, satisfying meal.
- Cook the Pasta and Bacon: Cook your pasta until it’s al dente, and reserve some of the pasta water before draining. While the pasta cooks, crisp up the bacon in a skillet until golden brown, then remove it and set aside, leaving the flavourful drippings in the pan.
- Sauté the Peas and Combine: Sauté the peas in the same skillet using the bacon drippings for added flavour. Next, add the cooked pasta and bacon back to the skillet and toss to combine.
- Make the Creamy Sauce and Serve: Lower the heat and stir in the crème fraîche, lemon juice, and grated Parmesan. Add a little pasta water until the sauce reaches a smooth, creamy consistency. Stir in fresh mint, then serve immediately topped with extra Parmesan.
For detailed amounts and timing, see the printable recipe card below.
5 Reasons You’ll Love This Creamy Lemon Pasta Recipe:
- Quick & Easy: Ready in 25 minutes, perfect for busy weeknights.
- Family-Friendly: Flavours that everyone will enjoy—swap in cream and reduce the lemon for a milder, kid-approved option.
- Few Ingredients: Simple ingredients, most of which are pantry staples.
- Customisable: Swap peas for asparagus or add a handful of spinach for extra greens.
- Balanced Flavour: Creamy, savoury, and brightened with fresh lemon and mint.
Looking for more pasta recipes? Try my Creamy Gnocchi with Peas or Creamy Smoked Salmon Pasta with Peas for more quick and delicious meal ideas.
Creamy Lemon Pasta with Bacon and Peas FAQ
Yes, just blanch them briefly in boiling water before adding to the skillet.
Heavy cream makes a great substitute and will still provide a creamy texture, though it may have a slightly milder flavour.
Try penne, farfalle, or orecchiette—any shape that can hold the sauce works great!
Creamy Lemon Pasta with Bacon and Peas Recipe
Ingredients
- 400 g dried orecchiette (or other small pasta shape)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil, divided
- 150 g diced smoked bacon
- 2 cups frozen peas, thawed (300 g)
- 2 tablespoons crème fraîche
- Freshly squeezed juice of 1 lemon
- 40 g finely grated Parmesan cheese, plus more to serve
- Sea salt and freshly ground pepper, to taste
- 1 tablespoon finely chopped fresh mint leaves
- Pinch of crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
Method
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Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook according to the package instructions until al dente. Reserve 150 ml of the pasta cooking water before draining. Set the pasta aside.
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Prepare the Bacon: While the pasta cooks, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the diced bacon and cook until crispy and golden brown, about 5-7 minutes. Use a slotted spoon to remove the bacon and set it aside on a plate.
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Sauté the Peas: In the same skillet, add the remaining tablespoon of olive oil. Add the thawed peas and sauté for 1-2 minutes until warmed through. Season with freshly ground black pepper.
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Combine with Pasta: Add the cooked pasta and bacon to the skillet, along with 1-2 tablespoons of the reserved pasta cooking water. Toss to combine.
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Create the Creamy Sauce: Lower the heat and stir in the crème fraîche, lemon juice, and grated Parmesan. Gradually add 50-100 ml of reserved pasta water until the sauce reaches a smooth, creamy consistency that evenly coats the pasta. Keep stirring until the Parmesan is melted and fully incorporated.
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Add Fresh Mint and Season: Sprinkle in the chopped mint leaves and gently stir. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and more black pepper, if needed.
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Serve: Divide the pasta into bowls and serve immediately. Finish with a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese and enjoy!
Notes
- Use the reserved pasta water sparingly, adding it gradually to achieve your preferred sauce consistency. Adjust the amount of Parmesan to your liking, as the pasta water helps achieve a silky sauce without requiring extra cheese.
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