Bacon Pea Pasta

Bacon pea pasta is somewhat of a classic. It’s comfort food that often uses up some of the leftovers in your refrigerator or freezer. That half-finished bag of frozen peas? Check. How about the last two pieces of bacon? Check. From there, whatever else you find can work too. Add bits of chicken, ends and pieces of cheese, spinach, or onion. These are all examples of how you can personalize this dish.

The type of pasta is up to you. Bowtie, spaghetti, shells, or even ramen works. Your prep time comes in at about 5 minutes. 25 minutes later you’ll be serving! Better still, since you’re using leftovers the cost for feeding about 5 people is minimal.

Ingredients

1 16 oz box of pasta
12 oz bacon (smoked is nice)
1 small white onion, minced
1 stalk celery, minced
2 cups frozen peas (or peas and carrots)
½ cup grated parmesan cheese
½ tsp minced garlic
1 can creamed soup (celery, onion, mushroom)
1 cup milk
Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

Using a little olive oil, gently saute the onion, celery, and garlic. Set aside.
Cook the bacon until crispy. Drain on a paper towel. Set aside
Mix cheese, soup, milk, and desired spices together.
Add the onion, bacon, celery, garlic, and bacon to this blend (Tip: If you have other grated cheese, put it in at this time).
Bring a large pot of water to boil.
Add the pasta and peas, cooking for about 8 minutes until tender.
Drain the water, returning the pasta and peas to the pan.
Blend in the soup and spice mix.
Serve while hot!
For a little extra heat, sprinkle with red pepper flakes.