Creamy Pea and Bacon Ditalini

Name: Creamy Pea and Bacon Ditalini (One-Pan Pasta)
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 35 min
Yield: 4 servings
Cuisine: Italian-American
Ingredients: 1 lb bacon, chopped; 1 medium shallot, finely chopped; 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 3 cups chicken broth; 1/2 cup heavy cream; salt, to taste; 1 lb ditalini pasta; 1 cup frozen peas; 2 tbsp butter; 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese; Freshly grated Parmesan cheese, for serving; Freshly ground black pepper, for serving

Creamy Pea and Bacon Ditalini is a quick one-pan pasta dish that combines crispy bacon, sweet peas, and tender ditalini in a rich, savory cream sauce. The entire meal comes together in one pot for effortless weeknight cooking.

🌍Italian-American 🏷️One-pan pasta 🏷️Ditalini 🏷️Bacon pasta 🏷️Creamy pasta Peas

🏷️

🏷️Weeknight dinner

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TikTok

Total

35 min

Servings

4

Difficulty

Easy

Est. Cost

$25–$41

Recipe Source

View original recipe

From TikTok

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TikTok

Ingredients

1 lb bacon, chopped
1 medium shallot, finely chopped
1/2 tsp red pepper flakes
3 cloves garlic, minced
3 cups chicken broth
1/2 cup heavy cream
salt, to taste
1 lb ditalini pasta
1 cup frozen peas
2 tbsp butter
1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Freshly grated Parmesan cheese, for servingoptional
Freshly ground black pepper, for servingoptional

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Instructions

1
In a large skillet or pot over medium heat, cook the bacon until crispy. Remove the bacon with a slotted spoon or tongs, leaving the rendered fat in the pan. Set the cooked bacon aside.
2
In the same pan with the bacon fat, add the chopped shallot and red pepper flakes. Sauté for 2-3 minutes until the shallot has softened.
3
Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
4
Pour in the chicken broth to deglaze the pan, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom.
5
Stir in the heavy cream, season with salt, and add the uncooked ditalini pasta. Stir everything to combine.
6
Bring the mixture to a simmer, then cover the pan and reduce the heat. Cook until the pasta is al dente, stirring occasionally, about 10-12 minutes.
7
Once the pasta is cooked, stir in the reserved crumbled bacon, frozen peas, butter, and grated Parmesan cheese. Mix until the butter and cheese are melted and the sauce is creamy.
8
Serve immediately, garnished with additional grated Parmesan and freshly ground black pepper if desired.

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Tips & Notes

Pro tips

Render the bacon slowly over medium heat until crispy, then drain on paper towels and crumble—this ensures maximum flavor and prevents greasiness in the sauce.
Add the cream at the end of cooking off heat to prevent it from breaking or curdling, then stir gently until the sauce is silky.
Taste and season with salt and black pepper after adding the peas, as the bacon and broth already contribute significant saltiness.

Substitutions

bacon → pancetta or prosciutto (same amount, slightly different flavor profile)
ditalini → small shells, elbow, or orzo (adjust cooking time to package directions)
frozen peas → fresh corn kernels or diced zucchini (cook for similar time)

Storage & make-ahead

Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat on the stovetop over medium-low heat with 2–3 tablespoons of broth to restore creaminess.

Common Questions

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes, cook the pasta and sauce separately, then store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop with a splash of broth to restore creaminess.

What can I substitute for heavy cream?

Use half-and-half, whole milk mixed with butter, or cream cheese whisked into the broth. Cream cheese creates a slightly thicker sauce.

Can I use fresh peas instead of frozen?

Yes, use 1 cup fresh peas and add them during the last 3–4 minutes of cooking to keep them tender and bright.

How do I prevent the pasta from becoming mushy?

Cook the ditalini in the broth for only 8–10 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking. The pasta will continue to soften slightly as the cream is added.