This creamy tortellini dish is a winner! With tasty peas, bright asparagus, and crunchy bacon, it’s comfort food at its best. Plus, it’s ready in no time!
I love how the flavors come together, especially with that crispy bacon! 🥓 It’s perfect for a cozy dinner. Just toss it all in the pot, and you’re good to go!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Tortellini: Cheese-filled tortellini really makes this dish special. If you can’t find cheese tortellini, use spinach or mushroom tortellini for a different flavor. You could also swap in other pasta shapes, but the texture won’t be the same.
Bacon: I love using thick-cut bacon for extra crunch. Turkey bacon or pancetta are great alternatives if you’re looking for something lighter. You can even skip the bacon for a vegetarian option and increase the amount of asparagus or peas.
Asparagus: Fresh asparagus gives a lovely crunch and taste. If it’s not in season, frozen asparagus works too! You could substitute with green beans or broccoli if you prefer those flavors.
Heavy cream: While heavy cream gives that rich, creamy texture, you can use half-and-half for a lighter version or unsweetened cashew cream for a dairy-free option. Just keep in mind that the taste will change slightly.
Parmesan cheese: Freshly grated Parmesan brings in a great flavor. If you don’t have it, Pecorino Romano is a nice substitute. Nutritional yeast can give a cheesy flavor if you’re vegan.
How Do I Get That Perfectly Creamy Sauce?
Making a creamy sauce sounds tricky, but it’s simpler than you think! The key is to let the ingredients blend well without boiling for too long. Here’s how to get it just right:
- After adding the garlic, don’t let it burn! It’s best to stir for only one minute. Garlic can turn bitter quickly.
- Once you pour in the heavy cream, keep stirring to combine. Bring it to a gentle simmer but avoid boiling, which can cause it to separate.
- When adding the cheese, make sure to stir it in until fully melted. This is what makes the sauce super creamy!
- If it seems too thick, a splash of pasta water can help loosen it up without losing creaminess.
Follow these tips, and you’ll have a deliciously creamy sauce everyone will love!
How to Make Creamy Tortellini with Peas, Asparagus, and Bacon
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Pasta and Meats:
- 12 ounces cheese tortellini (fresh or frozen)
- 4 slices bacon, chopped
Vegetables:
- 1 cup asparagus, cut into 1-inch lengths
- 1 cup frozen peas
For the Sauce:
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Garnish:
- Chopped parsley (for garnish, optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 20 minutes total: 10 minutes for prep and cooking the tortellini, and an additional 10 minutes to cook the bacon and veggies. In no time, you’ll have a creamy and delicious meal on your table!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Tortellini:
Start by bringing a pot of water to a boil. Add the cheese tortellini and cook according to the package instructions. Once they’re tender, drain them in a colander and set aside. It’s that simple!
2. Cook the Bacon:
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped bacon to the skillet and cook it until it’s crispy and golden, about 5 to 7 minutes. Once done, transfer the bacon to a paper towel-lined plate to soak up any extra grease.
3. Sauté the Asparagus:
In the same skillet (with all that yummy bacon flavor), add the cut asparagus. Sauté them for about 3 to 4 minutes, or until they become tender. Then, add the minced garlic and sauté for an additional minute, stirring frequently to keep the garlic from burning.
4. Add the Peas:
Next, toss in the frozen peas and cook everything for another 2 minutes until the peas are warmed through and bright green.
5. Make the Creamy Sauce:
Pour in the heavy cream and bring the mix to a gentle simmer. Add the grated Parmesan cheese and stir it all together until the cheese melts and your sauce is nice and creamy. Taste and sprinkle in some salt and pepper to your liking.
6. Combine Everything:
Now, add the cooked tortellini and the crispy bacon back into the skillet. Toss everything gently to combine, making sure the tortellini gets well coated with that delicious, creamy sauce. Heat it through so it’s warm and inviting.
7. Garnish and Serve:
Remove the skillet from the heat and, if you like, sprinkle some chopped parsley on top for a fresh touch. Serve your creamy tortellini warm and enjoy every bite!
Can I Use Frozen Tortellini Instead of Fresh?
Absolutely! Frozen tortellini can be used in this recipe without any adjustments, simply follow the package instructions for cooking time. Just remember to cook it until it’s tender, then drain and add to the skillet as directed.
What Can I Substitute for Heavy Cream?
If you’re looking for a lighter option, you can substitute heavy cream with half-and-half or whole milk for a less creamy sauce. For a dairy-free alternative, coconut cream or a cashew cream blend can work well, but keep in mind that it will change the flavor profile a bit.
Can I Make This Recipe Vegetarian?
Yes! To make this dish vegetarian, simply omit the bacon and replace it with sautéed mushrooms or extra vegetables for added flavor. You can use a bit of smoked paprika to add a smoky touch without the meat!
How to Store Leftovers?
Leftovers should be stored 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 or milk if the sauce has thickened too much.
