Looking for a one pot wonder dish? Look no further than our Creamy Shells with Peas Potatoes and Bacon. Pure comfort food and it’s made entirely in one pan.
There’s something super comforting about a bowl of pasta to me. Like CHICKEN, there are so many possibilities with pasta that it makes it difficult to get tired of it. This recipe calls for simple, basic ingredients that come together to make a creamy (without cream) hearty satisfying meal. So simple you may just have everything you need to prepare it already in your pantry. Did I mention it’s made in ONE skillet (or Braiser) and is fairly budget friendly? All things in the W column for me.
What does al dente mean?
Al dente comes from an Italian phrase which translates “to the tooth.” When directions say to cook until al dente, the pasta should be tender but still firm to the bite. No one wants mushy pasta.
Prep Tips:
Potatoes play a key role in this recipe. They help to add a creaminess to the dish. After peeling, you’ll want to dice the potatoes fairly small. This will not only allow the potatoes to cook faster, it will also give a cohesive bite. No one wants a giant hunk of potato with a small pea and pasta.
When are potatoes done?
Potatoes are done when they are tender are the way through. Test by inserting a fork into the potato. If the fork inserts smoothly the potatoes are done.
MORE DELICIOUS PASTA RECIPES TO TRY
If you’re feeling inspired by my creamy shells recipe, you’ll love these other tasty pasta recipes:
- Bucatini with Creamy Sun Dried Tomato Sauce
- Spaghetti with Butter Roasted Tomato Sauce
- Spaghetti with Sweet Potato and Tomato Sauce
- Sausage Ragu with Pappardelle
Creamy Shells with Peas and Bacon
Creamy Shells with Peas, Potatoes and Bacon
Ingredients
- 2 slices bacon – diced
- 1/2 medium onion - finely chopped
- 1 cup frozen peas
- 2 small potatoes – peeled, diced small
- 4 cups chicken stock
- 1 1/2 cups small shell pasta
- kosher salt
- black pepper
- 1/4 cup grated Parmigiano Reggiano cheese
Instructions
- Heat a large deep sided skillet or braiser over over medium heat. Add bacon and cook until crispy. Stirring as necessary. Transfer bacon bits to a small bowl. Set aside.
- Add onions and sauté until translucent.
- Add peas. Reduce heat to LOW and cook approximately 3-5 minutes until peas are softened.
- Add potatoes and chicken stock. Stir to combine. Increase heat and bring to a boil. Once mixture boils, reduce heat to LOW cover and cook for approximately 10 minutes OR until potatoes are tender.
- Add pasta, stir to combine. Season with salt and pepper, continue cooking for approximately 10 minutes OR until pasta is cooked al dente. Stirring as necessary.
- Add cheese, stir to combine. Check for seasoning. Adjust salt and pepper to taste. Sprinkle bacon bits on top.
Recommended Products
As an Amazon Associate and member of other affiliate programs, I earn from qualifying purchases.
We would love to see them!
And make sure you follow bell’alimento on Pinterest, Twitter, and Facebook, too!