This creamy tortellini dish is a winner! Packed with tender pasta, fresh peas, crisp asparagus, and bits of bacon, it’s delicious and filling.
Honestly, the combination of creamy sauce and crispy bacon makes me do a little happy dance in the kitchen! 🕺 I love to serve this for dinner—it’s ready in just 30 minutes!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Tortellini: Cheese tortellini is the star here! Fresh or frozen works well. If you need a gluten-free option, try using gluten-free pasta or whole wheat tortellini for a healthier twist.
Bacon: Bacon adds a yummy crunch and flavor. You can swap it for turkey bacon or even diced pancetta if you want a different taste. For a vegetarian option, try smoked tempeh or mushrooms sautéed in olive oil.
Asparagus: Fresh asparagus brings great texture. If it’s out of season, feel free to use green beans or broccoli florets instead. Both will still taste fantastic!
Heavy Cream: While heavy cream gives richness, half-and-half or coconut cream work as lighter or dairy-free alternatives. Just note that coconut cream will add a slight coconut flavor.
Parmesan Cheese: Freshly grated adds the best flavor, but you can substitute with Pecorino Romano or a dairy-free cheese for a similar taste. Grating your own is a great tip to get that meltiness!
How Do I Cook Bacon Perfectly for This Dish?
Crispy bacon is essential for flavor and texture in this creamy dish. Cooking it right ensures you get that satisfying crunch that pairs beautifully with tortellini.
- Start with a cold skillet. Add chopped bacon and heat over medium. This helps render the fat slowly.
- Cook until crispy, about 5-8 minutes. Stir occasionally to avoid burning.
- Once crispy, use a slotted spoon to remove it from the skillet. Drain it on a paper towel to soak up excess fat. This step keeps your dish from getting greasy.
How to Make Creamy Tortellini with Peas, Asparagus, and Bacon?
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Dish:
- 12 oz cheese tortellini (fresh or frozen)
- 4 slices bacon, chopped
- 1 cup asparagus, chopped into 1-inch pieces
- 1 cup frozen peas
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- Fresh parsley or basil for garnish (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This creamy tortellini dish will take you approximately 30 minutes to prepare. You’ll spend about 10 minutes on prepping the ingredients and cooking, with another 15-20 minutes for the actual cooking process. It’s quick, tasty, and perfect for any day of the week!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Tortellini:
Start by boiling water in a large pot. Cook the cheese tortellini according to the package instructions—this usually takes about 3-5 minutes for fresh tortellini, or a bit longer for frozen. Once cooked, drain the tortellini and set it aside while you prepare the rest of the dish.
2. Sauté the Bacon:
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped bacon and cook it until it’s crispy, which should take about 5-7 minutes. Once done, remove the bacon from the skillet and place it on a paper towel-lined plate to soak up any extra fat. This keeps it crispy!
3. Cook the Vegetables:
In the same skillet with the leftover bacon fat, add the chopped asparagus. Sauté for about 2-3 minutes, just until it starts to get tender. Then, add the minced garlic and cook for about another minute. Stir frequently to prevent the garlic from burning.
4. Make the Cream Sauce:
Pour in the heavy cream and bring it to a gentle simmer. Gradually stir in the grated Parmesan cheese, mixing well until the sauce becomes creamy and smooth. This is where the magic happens!
5. Combine Everything:
Now it’s time to bring it all together! Add the cooked tortellini, frozen peas, and crispy bacon back into the skillet. Gently toss everything together until everything is well mixed and heated through, which should take about 2 minutes.
6. Season and Serve:
Finally, season your creamy tortellini with salt and pepper to taste. Remove the skillet from heat and if you’d like, garnish with fresh parsley or basil for a pop of color. Serve it immediately and enjoy your delicious meal!
Can I Use Frozen Tortellini for This Recipe?
Absolutely! If you’re using frozen tortellini, just follow the package instructions for cooking. There’s no need to thaw them first; you can cook them directly from frozen. Just increase the cooking time slightly to ensure they are heated through.
How Can I Substitute the Heavy Cream?
If you’re looking for a lighter option, you can substitute the heavy cream with half-and-half or whole milk. For a dairy-free alternative, try using coconut cream or a plant-based cream substitute. Just keep in mind that the sauce may not be as thick, so you might need to let it simmer a bit longer to reach your desired consistency.
How to Store Leftovers
Leftover creamy tortellini can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When reheating, add a splash of milk or cream to loosen the sauce, as it may thicken when stored. Heat gently on the stove over low heat, stirring occasionally, until warmed through.
Can I Add Other Vegetables to This Dish?
Definitely! Feel free to get creative with your veggies. Spinach, bell peppers, or even cherry tomatoes make great additions. Just adjust the cooking time slightly, so any new veggies become tender but not overcooked. Add them at the same time as the asparagus for the best results!
