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Pea Pancetta Pasta

Delicious Pea Pancetta Pasta for Quick Weeknight Dinners

This 25-minute Pea Pancetta Pasta is a perfect weeknight dinner combining vibrant peas and crispy pancetta.
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Total Time 25 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: Italian
Calories: 450

Ingredients
  

For the Pasta
  • 12 oz Orecchiette Pasta The traditional choice for this dish.
  • 1 cup Frozen Peas Fresh peas can be a substitute if in season.
  • 1 cup Reserved Pasta Water Crucial for binding the sauce.
For the Flavor
  • 4 oz Diced Pancetta Infuses savory richness.
  • 2 cloves Fresh Garlic Provides aromatic depth.
  • 2 tbsp Salted Butter Adds richness; olive oil is a dairy-free option.
For the Crunch
  • 1 cup Panko Breadcrumbs Creates irresistible crunch.
For Saucing Up
  • ½ cup Chicken Broth Gives moisture and flavor.
  • ½ cup Parmesan Cheese Adds a nutty finish.
For Seasoning
  • 1 tsp Garlic Powder For an extra layer of garlic flavor.
  • 1 tsp Onion Powder Enhances overall flavor.
  • 1 tbsp Dried Herbs (Parsley, Basil, Oregano) Mix and match based on preference.

Equipment

  • Large Pot
  • Skillet
  • Colander
  • measuring cup
  • bowl

Method
 

Instructions
  1. Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil over high heat. Once boiling, add the orecchiette pasta and cook for 9 minutes, or until it is al dente.
  2. In a skillet over medium heat, melt a tablespoon of salted butter. Add the panko breadcrumbs and a sprinkle of garlic powder. Stir for about 1-2 minutes, until golden brown.
  3. Add the diced pancetta to the same skillet and cook over medium heat for approximately 6 minutes until crispy. Toss in the frozen peas and cook for an additional 2 minutes.
  4. Reserve about 1 cup of the pasta water before draining the orecchiette. Drain and let it rest.
  5. Return the drained orecchiette to the skillet with the pancetta and peas, reducing heat to low. Pour in about ½ cup of chicken broth and some reserved pasta water. Stir in dried herbs.
  6. Remove from heat, and stir in freshly grated Parmesan cheese until it melts into the pasta. Sprinkle reserved panko on top.
  7. Divide the warm Pea Pancetta Pasta into bowls and serve immediately, topped with crispy panko crumbs.

Nutrition

Serving: 1servingCalories: 450kcalCarbohydrates: 60gProtein: 20gFat: 15gSaturated Fat: 7gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 3gCholesterol: 30mgSodium: 800mgPotassium: 400mgFiber: 5gSugar: 2gVitamin A: 500IUVitamin C: 10mgCalcium: 200mgIron: 2mg

Notes

Refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Freeze portions for up to 2 months, omitting the panko to prevent sogginess.

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