Penne Pasta With Shrimp & Bacon: A Weeknight Delight

There are certain dishes that immediately transport me back to my early days of learning to cook, and this penne pasta with shrimp and bacon is definitely one of them. I remember experimenting with it in my tiny apartment kitchen, slightly intimidated by seafood, yet determined to create something delicious. The sizzle of the bacon, the sweet aroma of the shrimp, and the creamy, comforting sauce that coated every strand of pasta – it was pure magic. This dish became a regular, a comforting staple that I still turn to when I need a quick, satisfying, and utterly flavorful meal.

Recipe Overview

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 15 minutes
• Total Time: 25 minutes
• Servings: 4
• Yield: Approx. 6 cups
• Dietary Type: Not Gluten-Free (contains pasta)

Ingredients

• 1 lb penne pasta
• 1/4 lb bacon, cut into 1/2-inch bits
• 1/2 cup frozen peas, thawed
• 1 lb shrimp, uncooked, peeled & deveined
• 1 1/2 tablespoons butter
• 1/2 cup ricotta cheese
• 1 tablespoon grated parmesan cheese
• Salt and Pepper to taste

Equipment Needed

• Large pot
• Large skillet or frying pan
• Colander
• Large bowl

Instructions

1. Begin by cooking the penne pasta according to the package directions. Be sure to salt the water generously; this is your first opportunity to season the pasta itself. Cook to al dente, as it will continue to cook slightly when tossed with the sauce.

2. While the pasta is cooking, heat a large skillet or frying pan over medium heat. Add the bacon, cut into 1/2-inch pieces. Sauté the bacon until it is crisp and the fat has rendered, about 5-7 minutes.

3. Once the bacon is cooked, add the thawed frozen peas to the skillet. Sauté for an additional 1 to 2 minutes, until the peas are heated through. This brief sautéing brings out their sweetness.

4. Add the shrimp, peeled and deveined, to the skillet with the bacon and peas. Stir constantly until the shrimp is just cooked through, about 3-5 minutes. Be careful not to overcook the shrimp, as it will become rubbery. You’ll know it’s done when it turns pink and opaque.

5. Reduce the heat to low and add the butter to the skillet. Allow the butter to melt slowly, stirring gently to combine it with the bacon fat and cooking juices. This creates a rich and flavorful base for the sauce.

6. In a large bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, salt, pepper, and grated parmesan cheese. Mix well until everything is evenly distributed. Adjust the seasoning to your liking.

7. Just before the pasta is done cooking, whisk in about 1/4 cup of the hot pasta water into the ricotta mixture. This will help create a smoother, more sauce-like consistency.

8. Drain the penne pasta thoroughly using a colander. Immediately add the drained pasta to the bowl with the cheese mixture. Toss gently but thoroughly to coat the pasta evenly with the sauce.

9. Add the bacon and shrimp mixture from the skillet to the pasta. Toss gently to combine everything, ensuring the shrimp and bacon are distributed evenly throughout the pasta.

Expert Tips & Tricks

• Don’t overcook the shrimp! Overcooked shrimp is rubbery and loses its flavor. Cook just until pink and opaque.
• Save some pasta water. The starchy water helps to create a creamy sauce that clings beautifully to the pasta. Always reserve about 1/2 cup of pasta water before draining.
• Render the bacon properly: Cook the bacon over medium heat, allowing the fat to render slowly. This will result in crispy bacon and flavorful bacon fat, which is essential for the overall flavor of the dish.
• For a spicier kick, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the skillet when you add the shrimp.
• If the sauce is too thick, add a little more pasta water until it reaches your desired consistency.

Serving & Storage Suggestions

Serve this penne pasta with shrimp and bacon immediately for the best flavor and texture. Garnish with a sprinkle of fresh parsley or an extra dusting of parmesan cheese for a pop of color and flavor.

Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm the pasta in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of milk or water if needed to prevent it from drying out. You can also reheat it in the microwave, but be careful not to overcook the shrimp.

This dish is best enjoyed fresh, but if you need to make it ahead, prepare the components separately (cook the pasta, bacon, and shrimp) and store them in the refrigerator. Then, when ready to serve, combine everything as directed in the recipe.

Nutritional Information

Nutrient	Amount per Serving	% Daily Value
Calories	650 kcal	33%
Total Fat	28g	43%
Saturated Fat	12g	60%
Cholesterol	220mg	73%
Sodium	750mg	31%
Total Carbohydrate	65g	22%
Dietary Fiber	5g	20%
Sugars	4g	8%
Protein	40g	80%

Note: Nutritional information is an estimate and can vary based on specific ingredients and serving sizes.

Variations & Substitutions

• Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free penne pasta. Ensure that all other ingredients are also gluten-free.
• Vegetarian: Omit the bacon and add more vegetables, such as mushrooms, bell peppers, or zucchini.
• Dairy-Free: Substitute the ricotta cheese with a dairy-free alternative, such as cashew ricotta or tofu ricotta. Be sure to also use a dairy-free butter substitute.
• Seafood Variety: Substitute the shrimp with scallops, crabmeat, or lobster for a different flavor profile.
• Spice It Up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the sauce for extra heat.

FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions)

Q: Can I use pre-cooked shrimp for this recipe?
A: While you can use pre-cooked shrimp, it’s generally recommended to use raw shrimp for the best flavor and texture. Pre-cooked shrimp can sometimes become rubbery when reheated. If you do use pre-cooked shrimp, add it to the skillet at the very end, just to heat it through.

Q: Can I use a different type of pasta?
A: Absolutely! While penne is a great choice for this recipe, you can easily substitute it with other pasta shapes like farfalle (bowties), rotini (spirals), or even spaghetti.

Q: Can I freeze this pasta dish?
A: Freezing this dish isn’t recommended, as the pasta can become mushy and the texture of the ricotta cheese can change. It’s best enjoyed fresh or within a few days of making it.

Q: How do I prevent the pasta from sticking together?
A: Make sure to cook the pasta al dente and toss it with the sauce immediately after draining. Adding a little olive oil to the cooked pasta can also help prevent sticking.

Q: What can I add to make the sauce richer?
A: For a richer sauce, you can add a splash of heavy cream or half-and-half to the skillet along with the butter. Alternatively, you can add a small amount of cream cheese to the ricotta mixture.

Final Thoughts

This Penne Pasta with Shrimp & Bacon is more than just a recipe; it’s an invitation to create a delicious and comforting meal that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or just starting out, this recipe is easy to follow and guaranteed to impress. So, gather your ingredients, put on some music, and get ready to enjoy a truly unforgettable pasta experience. Don’t be afraid to experiment with variations and substitutions to make it your own. And most importantly, share your creation with loved ones and savor the deliciousness together!