One-Pot Creamy Pasta with Peas and Pancetta

Who doesn't love a one-pot pasta meal? And this pasta with peas and pancetta delivers on ever level. Super flavorful, easy, and only one pot to clean! YAY!

This pasta is made with tomato paste, chicken stock, mascarpone cheese (you can use cream cheese too!) for a beautiful and luxurious sauce .

One-pot pasta with pancetta and peas is quick and easy. The blush sauce blends perfectly with the sweet peas and salty pancetta.

Jump to:

• Why You'll Love This Recipe
• Ingredients
• How to Make Pasta with Pancetta and Peas
• Variations
• Tips and Tricks
• Storage and Reheating
• More Pasta!
• 📖 Recipe

Why You'll Love This Recipe

Crispy Pancetta: Salty pancetta cubes sizzle to golden perfection, offering a great texture and flavor.

Creamy Mascarpone: Luxurious mascarpone cheese adds a velvety texture, elevating the dish to a realm of pure deliciousness. Cream cheese is also a great option for some extra flavor!

Parmesan Perfection: The marriage of Parmesan cheese varieties creates a profile of salty, nutty notes.

Herb-Infused: A medley of parsley and basil brings that Italian influence.

Pasta Al Dente: Cooked to perfection, the pasta absorbs the flavorful broth, ensuring each bite amazing.

Peas for a Pop of Sweetness: Vibrant green peas add a burst of sweetness, complementing the savory profile and providing some visual contrast.

Ingredients

1. Olive Oil (1 tbsp): Infuses a subtle, fruity undertone, serving as the base for a flavorful journey.
2. Pancetta (8oz): Crispy, savory delight elevating the dish with its rich, golden-brown texture and distinct flavor.
3. Onion (1, diced): Sweetness and depth, softening into a caramelized perfection for a well-rounded taste.
4. Garlic (2 cloves, minced): Intense, aromatic notes, adding complexity and a hint of pungency to the overall profile.
5. Tomato Paste (4 tbsp): A robust, concentrated tomato essence, coating ingredients for a savory, umami-packed foundation.
6. Chicken Broth (4 cups) + Water (1 cup): Liquid gold, providing a savory base with a comforting, rich undertone.
7. Parsley (1 tsp) + Basil (1 tsp): Herbal freshness, contributing a fragrant and vibrant layer to the flavor palette.
8. Salt (1 tsp) + Pepper (¼ tsp): Balancing act, enhancing and harmonizing the flavors with a perfect blend of saltiness and warmth.
9. Pasta (1 lb): Al dente perfection, absorbing the flavorful broth and serving as the hearty backbone of the dish.
10. Frozen Peas (1 cup): A burst of sweet, vibrant green freshness, adding color, texture, and a delightful pop to each bite.
11. Mascarpone Cheese (¾ cup): Creamy decadence, enriching the dish with a velvety texture and luxurious, mild flavor.
12. Parmesan Cheese (½ cup + more for serving): Nutty, salty notes, creating a savory symphony and crowning the dish with a delightful finish.

How to Make Pasta with Pancetta and Peas

Step 1: Heat your olive oil in a large, heavy bottomed pot (such as as Dutch oven).

Step 2: Crisp up your pancetta until browned.

Step 3: Add your onions and garlic, and cook until softened.

Step 4: Add your tomato paste.

Step 5: Let the tomato paste cook until it starts to deepen in color. That means the flavor is intensifying.

Step 6: Add chicken broth, water, salt, pepper, basil and parsley. Bring it all to a boil, and add your pasta. Turn the heat down to a simmer. Cover, and stir often to make sure the pasta doesn't stick to the bottom of the pot.

If the pasta is drying out to quickly, add more water if needed.

Step 7: Once the pasta is almost cooked, add the frozen peas. Cook for a few minutes longer until the peas have heated through.

Step 8: Add your parmesan and mascarpone cheese. Stir until it's all melted together.

Step 9: Serve it up with some more parmesan!

Variations

This pasta is pretty versatile, feel free to get creative in any way you choose. Here are some ideas to get you started!

Spicy Kick:

Add red pepper flakes to the pancetta for a fiery kick. Substitute regular pepper with cracked black pepper for an extra bold flavor.

Mediterranean:

Introduce sun-dried tomatoes for a burst of sweetness and depth. Incorporate Kalamata olives and feta cheese for a Mediterranean flair.

Herb Garden:

Experiment with rosemary and thyme for a robust herb-infused experience. Drizzle a touch of truffle oil before serving for an earthy aroma.

Seafood Party:

Infuse the broth with seafood stock for a rich oceanic base. Add cooked shrimp or scallops along with the peas for a luxurious seafood twist.

Vegetarian:

Replace pancetta with sautéed mushrooms for a hearty, earthy alternative. Toss in spinach or kale for a nutritious, green boost.

Citrus Zest:

Grate lemon or orange zest into the mascarpone for a citrusy lift. Squeeze fresh lemon juice over the pasta before serving for brightness.

Smoky:

Incorporate smoked paprika into the tomato paste for a subtle smokiness. Top with smoked Gouda or cheddar for a robust, smoky finish.

Tips and Tricks

Dice pancetta uniformly for consistent crispiness. Fry on medium heat, allowing it to brown without burning for that irresistible crunch.

Cook the tomato paste until it turns a shade darker, intensifying its rich, umami flavor.

Opt for homemade chicken broth or high-quality store-bought for a more robust taste. Adjust broth/water ratio based on personal preference for a stronger or milder flavor.

Stir pasta occasionally to prevent sticking, ensuring an even cook. Taste test for that perfect al dente texture, ensuring it's slightly undercooked before adding peas.

Add frozen peas towards the end to maintain their vibrant color and prevent mushiness.

Allow mascarpone to come to room temperature before adding, ensuring a smooth blend into the dish.

Experiment with different parmesan varieties for nuanced flavors. Grate Parmesan fresh for enhanced taste and texture.

Sprinkle fresh herbs like chopped parsley or basil just before serving for a burst of freshness. Serve with an extra drizzle of olive oil and a wedge of lemon for added zing.

Storage and Reheating

Storage:

• Refrigerate any leftovers in an airtight container within 2 hours of cooking.
• Consume within 3-4 days for optimal taste and freshness.

Reheating:

• For stovetop reheating, add a splash of broth to maintain moisture.
• In the microwave, cover with a damp paper towel to prevent drying.
• Gently reheat, stirring occasionally, until piping hot.
• Avoid overcooking to preserve the pasta's texture.

More Pasta!

📖 Recipe