Penne Pasta, Peas and lamb

Introduction

There’s something about a bowl of pasta that instantly warms the soul, and this Penne Pasta with Peas and Lamb is no exception. Think tender lamb simmered to perfection, sweet pops of green peas, and al dente penne coated in a light yet flavorful sauce. It’s the kind of meal that feels like a hug on a plate.

For me, this recipe holds a special place in my heart. Growing up, Sunday lunches were all about gathering the family for a meal that brought everyone together. This pasta dish was one of those recipes that made its way to the table more often than not. My grandmother was a wizard in the kitchen, and her lamb pasta was a family favorite. She’d slow-cook the lamb until it was melt-in-your-mouth tender, and her secret? A touch of cinnamon in the sauce that added an unexpected warmth.

This dish is perfect for busy weeknights when you want something hearty but don’t have hours to spare. It’s also a crowd-pleaser for weekend gatherings. The ingredients are simple, but the flavors come together beautifully to create a dish that’s as comforting as it is delicious.

Let’s dive into the recipe and bring a little warmth and nostalgia to your dinner table.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Here’s why this recipe deserves a spot in your rotation:

1. Quick and Easy: With minimal prep and simple ingredients, you can have this dish on the table in under an hour. Perfect for those hectic weeknights!
2. Rich Flavors: The tender lamb, sweet peas, and savory pasta combine to create a harmonious blend of flavors.
3. Family-Friendly: This dish is kid-approved! The peas add a touch of sweetness that balances the rich lamb, making it a hit with all ages.
4. One-Pot Wonder: Aside from cooking the pasta separately, everything comes together in one pan for easy cleanup.
5. Customizable: You can swap the lamb for ground chicken or beef, or even make it vegetarian with chickpeas.

Imagine biting into perfectly cooked penne, the tender lamb practically melting in your mouth, and the peas adding that burst of freshness. It’s simple comfort food elevated to new heights.

Preparation Time and Servings

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 35 minutes
• Total Time: 50 minutes
• Servings: 4-6

Nutrition (per serving): Calories: 480, Protein: 32g, Carbs: 50g, Fat: 15g

Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need:

• 12 oz (340g) penne pasta
• 1 lb (450g) lamb shoulder or ground lamb
• 1 cup green peas (fresh or frozen)
• 1 medium onion, finely diced
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes
• 1/2 cup chicken broth
• 1 tsp ground cinnamon
• 1 tsp paprika
• 1 tsp dried oregano
• 1/2 tsp ground cumin
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish
• Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)

Ingredient Notes:

• Lamb: Use ground lamb for a quicker option, or diced lamb shoulder for a heartier bite.
• Peas: Frozen peas are just as good as fresh—no need to thaw!
• Spices: Cinnamon and cumin add a warm, earthy flavor to complement the lamb.

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Cook the Pasta

• Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the penne pasta and cook according to the package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1/2 cup of pasta water, then drain and set aside.

2. Prepare the Lamb

• Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the lamb and season with salt, pepper, and paprika.
• Cook for 5-7 minutes, breaking up the meat with a wooden spoon, until browned and cooked through. If using lamb shoulder, sear the pieces until browned on all sides. Remove from the pan and set aside.

3. Sauté the Aromatics

• In the same skillet, add a bit more olive oil if needed. Sauté the diced onion for 3-4 minutes until softened.
• Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute, until fragrant.

4. Build the Sauce

• Stir in the canned tomatoes, chicken broth, cinnamon, oregano, and cumin. Bring to a simmer and cook for 5 minutes to let the flavors meld.
• Return the lamb to the skillet, reduce the heat, and let it simmer for 10-15 minutes.

5. Add the Peas

• Stir in the peas and cook for another 2-3 minutes. If the sauce seems too thick, add a splash of the reserved pasta water to loosen it up.

6. Combine with Pasta

• Add the cooked penne to the skillet and toss until well-coated in the sauce. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.

7. Garnish and Serve

• Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley and a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese if desired.

How to Serve

Here are a few ways to serve your Penne Pasta with Peas and Lamb:

• Classic Style: In a big serving bowl, garnished with parsley and Parmesan.
• Family-Style Platter: Spread out on a large platter for easy sharing.
• Paired with Sides: Serve with garlic bread or a fresh green salad for a complete meal.

Additional Tips

1. Don’t Overcook the Pasta: Al dente is key, as the pasta will absorb some sauce when tossed together.
2. Fresh vs. Frozen Peas: Frozen peas are just as nutritious and often sweeter—use them straight from the freezer.
3. Searing Lamb: For extra flavor, make sure to sear the lamb until browned. This creates a caramelized crust that adds depth to the dish.
4. Adjusting the Sauce: If the sauce is too thick, reserved pasta water is your best friend—it adds liquid without diluting flavor.
5. Storage: This pasta reheats beautifully, making it perfect for meal prep. Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.

Recipe Variations

• Vegetarian: Swap the lamb for chickpeas or lentils for a plant-based option.
• Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free penne or your favorite alternative pasta.
• Spicy Twist: Add red chili flakes or a dash of hot sauce for a spicy kick.
• Herbaceous Flair: Replace parsley with fresh mint for a unique, refreshing twist.

Freezing and Storage

Storage:

• Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Freezing:

• Freeze the sauce separately from the pasta for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat on the stovetop.

Reheating:

• Warm in a skillet with a splash of water or broth to loosen the sauce.

Special Equipment

• Large Skillet: For cooking the lamb and sauce.
• Wooden Spoon: Perfect for breaking up the lamb and stirring the sauce.
• Fine Mesh Strainer: Useful for draining the pasta water without losing any.

FAQ

1. Can I use another type of pasta?
Yes! If penne isn’t available, you can use other pasta shapes like fusilli, rigatoni, or farfalle. Just make sure to cook it according to the package instructions to ensure it’s al dente.

2. What if I don’t eat lamb?
No worries! You can easily swap out the lamb for ground chicken, turkey, or even beef. If you prefer a plant-based option, chickpeas or lentils would work beautifully as a substitute.

3. Can I make this recipe ahead?
Yes! This recipe is great for meal prep. You can make the sauce a day in advance and store it in the fridge. Then, just cook the pasta when you’re ready to serve and toss everything together.

4. Is it kid-friendly?
Absolutely! The lamb and peas are balanced with sweet, savory, and hearty flavors that kids love. If your child isn’t a fan of peas, you can leave them out or swap them for a different vegetable like spinach or zucchini.

5. Can I freeze this pasta dish?
Yes, you can freeze the sauce for up to 3 months. It’s best to freeze the sauce separately from the pasta. When you’re ready to enjoy it, thaw the sauce in the refrigerator overnight and reheat on the stove with a splash of water or broth.

6. How can I make this dish spicier?
If you like heat, add red chili flakes or a dash of hot sauce while cooking the sauce. You can adjust the spice level to suit your taste.

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Conclusion

And there you have it—a delicious, hearty, and comforting dish of Penne Pasta with Peas and Lamb that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re cooking for a busy weeknight or a cozy weekend gathering, this recipe offers rich flavors with minimal effort. With tender lamb, sweet peas, and perfectly cooked penne, each bite is a satisfying experience that brings warmth to your table.

The best part? You can easily customize the recipe to suit your preferences—whether that’s swapping lamb for another protein, adding extra spices, or making it vegetarian. It’s a dish that’s as flexible as it is flavorful.

I hope you enjoy making this Penne Pasta with Peas and Lamb as much as I do. Don’t forget to tag me in your photos if you share them online, and I’d love to hear how your version turned out in the comments below. Happy cooking!

I’d love to hear how your dish turns out! Snap a photo, tag me on Instagram, or leave a comment below. Let’s share the joy of cooking together. Happy pasta-making!