Creamy Tortellini with Bacon, Asparagus & Peas

Key Ingredients & Substitutions

Tortellini: The star of the dish! I prefer refrigerated cheese tortellini for its rich flavor and creamy texture. If you’re looking for a lighter option, fresh spinach or ricotta tortellini can be delightful.

Bacon: Bacon adds a smoky, savory taste. You can swap it with turkey bacon for a leaner version or use pancetta for a similar flavor.

Asparagus: Fresh asparagus is tender and adds a lovely crunch. If asparagus isn’t in season, you can use green beans or even broccoli florets instead.

Heavy cream: For creaminess, heavy cream is a must. If you prefer a lighter dish, half-and-half or coconut cream can work as substitutes. Just note the flavor will slightly change.

Parmesan cheese: This cheese gives depth with its salty flavor. If you’re looking for a vegan option, nutritional yeast can add a cheesy taste without dairy.

How Do You Get the Perfectly Crispy Bacon?

Crispy bacon is key for flavor and texture. Here’s how to make it perfect:

• Start with a cold skillet: add chopped bacon and gradually heat it over medium. This renders the fat and helps the bacon cook evenly.
• Let it sizzle without stirring too much, until golden brown. This usually takes about 6-8 minutes.
• Once crispy, transfer it to paper towels to absorb extra grease.

Remember, bacon should be crispy but not overcooked. It should maintain a nice chew! This will elevate your tortellini dish substantially.

How to Make Creamy Tortellini with Bacon, Asparagus & Peas

Ingredients You’ll Need:

For the Pasta:

• 1 package (about 9 oz) refrigerated cheese tortellini

For the Sauce and Vegetables:

• 6 slices bacon, chopped
• 1 bunch asparagus, trimmed and cut into 1-inch pieces
• 1 cup frozen peas, thawed
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced

For the Creamy Sauce:

• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
• 1 tablespoon olive oil or butter

For Garnish:

• Fresh basil or parsley, chopped

How Much Time Will You Need?

This dish will take about 20 minutes to prepare and cook. You’ll be enjoying a deliciously creamy and flavorful meal in no time!

Step-by-Step Instructions:

1. Cook the Tortellini:

Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Once boiling, add the refrigerated cheese tortellini and cook according to package directions until al dente. After cooking, drain the tortellini and set it aside for later.

2. Cook the Bacon:

In a large skillet over medium heat, add the chopped bacon. Cook it until crispy, which should take about 6-8 minutes. Once done, use a slotted spoon to remove the bacon and place it on paper towels to drain. Make sure to keep about 1 tablespoon of the bacon fat in the skillet for flavor!

3. Sauté the Aromatics:

If there isn’t enough bacon fat, add a little olive oil or butter to the skillet. Now, add the finely chopped onion and sauté until it becomes translucent, about 3 minutes. Next, add the minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds, just until it starts to smell amazing!

4. Add the Asparagus:

Add the trimmed asparagus pieces to the skillet. Sauté them for about 4-5 minutes until they are tender but still have a nice crispness. Stirring occasionally helps.

5. Mix in the Peas:

Now it’s time for the peas! Stir them in and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes to warm them through and get everything nicely combined.

6. Create the Creamy Sauce:

Pour in the heavy cream and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese until melted and smooth. Season with salt, pepper, and the optional crushed red pepper flakes for a little heat.

7. Combine Everything:

Return the crispy bacon and the cooked tortellini to the skillet. Toss everything together gently to combine and warm through for another 2-3 minutes. This blends all the delicious flavors!

8. Garnish and Serve:

Remove the skillet from heat. Garnish your dish with fresh basil or parsley for an extra pop of color and flavor. Serve immediately and enjoy every creamy bite of this delightful meal!

Can I Use Different Types of Pasta?

Absolutely! While the recipe calls for cheese tortellini, you can use any type of pasta you prefer, such as fettuccine or penne. Just adjust the cooking time according to the pasta you choose!

Can I Make This Recipe Vegetarian?

Yes! Simply omit the bacon and add some extra veggies such as mushrooms or spinach for flavor. You can also replace the chicken broth with vegetable broth in the creamy sauce for depth.

How Do I Store Leftovers?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of cream to loosen the sauce if needed.

Can I Freeze This Dish?

While you can freeze the creamy tortellini dish, be aware that the texture may change upon thawing. To freeze, let it cool completely, then place it in a sealed container. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating, and add a bit of cream as needed.