Pennette con pelati basilico e pancetta

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the penne pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.

In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced pancetta and cook until crispy, about 5-7 minutes.

Add the minced garlic and red pepper flakes to the skillet, cooking for an additional 1-2 minutes until fragrant.

Add the cooked penne pasta to the skillet, tossing to combine with the pancetta and garlic mixture.

Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese, mixing until the pasta is well coated. If the pasta seems dry, add a splash of pasta cooking water.

Season with salt and black pepper to taste.

Remove from heat and stir in the chopped parsley.

Serve immediately, garnished with extra Parmesan cheese if desired.

Spice Level: