This penne recipe is a straightforward yet tasty dish that combines the textures and flavors of pasta, Canadian bacon, and cheese. This easy-to-make meal is ideal for a quick dinner, featuring the mild flavors of Canadian bacon and Parmesan cheese complemented by a simple, creamy sauce.

The dish is completed with a garnish of fresh parsley, adding a touch of color and freshness. It’s a great option for those looking for a satisfying pasta dish that doesn’t require complicated cooking techniques or hard-to-find ingredients.

Prep Time: 12 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 32 minutes
Yield: 4 servings 1x

Ingredients

Units Scale

8 oz penne pasta
1 cup diced Canadian bacon
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1 cup light cream or half-and-half
2 tablespoons unsalted butter
2 cloves garlic, minced
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish

Cook Mode Prevent your screen from going dark

Instructions

Cook Pasta (10 minutes): Boil the penne pasta in salted water according to package instructions until al dente, then drain.
Cook Canadian Bacon (5 minutes): In a skillet, cook the diced Canadian bacon over medium heat until lightly browned.
Prepare Cream Sauce (10 minutes): In the same skillet, melt butter and sauté garlic until fragrant. Add the light cream, bring to a simmer, and cook for a few minutes until slightly thickened. Season with salt and pepper.
Combine Pasta and Sauce (5 minutes): Add the cooked pasta and Canadian bacon to the cream sauce, tossing to coat evenly. Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese until melted and well combined.
Garnish and Serve (2 minutes): Serve the pasta hot, garnished with chopped fresh parsley.

Notes

For the best flavor, use freshly grated Parmesan cheese. The cream sauce should be kept light to complement the other ingredients without overwhelming them.

You can adjust the seasoning to your taste, and if you like a bit of heat, a pinch of red pepper flakes can be a great addition. This dish pairs wonderfully with a side of steamed vegetables or a crisp salad.

*Please keep in mind that the following nutritional information is based on estimates and can vary depending on the specific brands and ingredients used.

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 serving
Calories: 400
Sugar: 3g
Sodium: 650mg
Fat: 20g
Carbohydrates: 35g
Fiber: 2g
Protein: 20g
Cholesterol: 60mg

Pair this with...

Garlic Bread

Grab a loaf of your favorite bread—baguette or ciabatta are classics. Slice it up, but not all the way through, so it fans out nicely. In a bowl, melt some butter and stir in minced garlic (as much or as little as you like), a sprinkle of salt, and maybe a touch of dried parsley for that extra flair. Generously brush or spread this garlicky goodness between the slices. Wrap the loaf in foil and pop it into a pre-heated oven. When it's golden and aromatic, pull it out and enjoy the buttery, crispy, garlicky delight.

Simple Steamed Broccoli

Begin with fresh broccoli, breaking it into even-sized florets to ensure uniform steaming. Rinse them under cold water to remove any impurities and to refresh their natural green hue. In a pot with a steamer insert, bring a small amount of water to a boil, ensuring the water level remains below the steamer. Place the broccoli florets into the steamer, covering the pot with a tight-fitting lid. Within a few minutes, the broccoli will transform into a brighter shade of green, signaling its readiness. Once tender but still slightly crisp, transfer the broccoli to a serving dish. A sprinkle of sea salt, a light drizzle of olive oil, or even a squeeze of lemon juice can enhance its earthy taste.

Fresh Mixed Greens Salad

Start with a base of mixed greens, combining varieties like arugula, spinach, romaine, or any leafy greens you love. Slice up a handful of cherry tomatoes for a burst of juiciness. Next, peel and shave or thinly slice a carrot for a sweet and crunchy addition. Now, here's where you get to be creative. Raid your fridge for veggies – maybe some leftover bell peppers, slices of cucumber, or even some steamed broccoli or green beans. Toss them all into your salad. Drizzle with your favorite vinaigrette or dressing, give it a good mix, and you've got a vibrant, crunchy, and fresh salad that goes well with just about any meal.