This creamy tortellini dish is full of yummy flavors from peas, crunchy asparagus, and crispy bacon. It’s like a party on your plate, ready to warm you up!
Honestly, who can resist that combination? I love how quick it is to whip up. Perfect for a cozy dinner after a long day—or whenever you just need some comfort food! 😋
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Tortellini: Cheese tortellini is the star here. Fresh ones are great but frozen works just as well. Can’t find cheese-filled? Substitute with spinach or mushroom tortellini for a twist.
Bacon: Bacon adds a nice crunch and flavor to this dish! If you prefer a lighter option or are vegetarian, consider using turkey bacon, pancetta, or even smoked tofu for a unique taste.
Asparagus: Fresh asparagus is crunchy and sweet, but you can swap it out for green beans or broccolini if that’s what you have. Just chop them into similar-sized pieces for even cooking.
Heavy Cream: For a lighter version, you can use half-and-half or even a plant-based cream. I’ve found that coconut cream gives a rich taste without the dairy!
Parmesan Cheese: Freshly grated is best for this recipe, but if you’re in a pinch, try Pecorino Romano or nutritional yeast for a dairy-free version.
How Can I Ensure My Bacon is Crispy?
Getting that perfect crispiness from bacon is key for great texture. Here’s how:
- Start with a cold skillet. This allows the fat to render out slowly, making it crisp without burning.
- Cook over medium heat to avoid splattering and uneven cooking. Keep an eye on it as it cooks!
- Remove the bacon once it’s golden and crispy. Drain it on paper towels to absorb extra grease.
These steps help achieve that delicious crunch, adding a nice contrast to the creamy sauce!
How to Make Creamy Tortellini with Peas, Asparagus, and Bacon
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Main Ingredients:
- 12 oz cheese tortellini (fresh or frozen)
- 4 slices of bacon, chopped
- 1 cup asparagus, trimmed and cut 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
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious creamy tortellini dish takes about 15-20 minutes to prepare. This includes cooking the tortellini and layering on all those yummy flavors. Get ready to enjoy a tasty dinner in no time!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Tortellini:
Begin by cooking the tortellini according to the package instructions in a large pot filled with salted water. Once cooked, drain the tortellini well and set it aside for later.
2. Crispy Bacon Time:
In a large skillet over medium heat, add the chopped bacon. Cook until it’s crispy and golden brown. Once done, use a slotted spoon to remove the bacon and let it drain on paper towels, keeping about 1 tablespoon of the tasty bacon grease in the skillet for flavor.
3. Sauté the Asparagus:
In the same skillet, if there’s not enough grease left, add a tablespoon of olive oil. Then, add the asparagus and sauté for about 3-4 minutes until it’s slightly tender. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute, just until you can smell that yummy garlic fragrance!
4. Add the Peas:
Now, toss in the frozen peas with the asparagus and garlic mixture, stirring everything together. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes to warm the peas through.
5. Make the Creamy Sauce:
Lower the heat and gently pour in the heavy cream. Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese until the sauce becomes creamy. Don’t forget to season with salt and pepper to taste!
6. Combine Tortellini and Bacon:
Add the cooked tortellini and the crispy bacon back into the skillet, gently tossing everything together so that all the pasta is coated in that delicious creamy sauce. Heat through for about 1-2 minutes.
7. Garnish and Serve:
Finally, remove the skillet from heat and sprinkle fresh chopped parsley on top before serving. Enjoy your creamy tortellini dish warm!
Enjoy cooking this flavorful and creamy pasta!
Can I Use Different Types of Pasta?
Absolutely! While cheese tortellini works beautifully, you can substitute it with other pasta shapes like fettuccine, penne, or even gluten-free pasta. Just adjust the cooking time according to the type you choose and ensure it’s al dente before adding it to the sauce.
What Can I Substitute for Heavy Cream?
If you’re looking to lighten things up, you can use half-and-half or whole milk mixed with a tablespoon of cornstarch to mimic the thickness of heavy cream. For a dairy-free option, try coconut cream or cashew cream, keeping in mind it will alter the flavor a bit.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of cream or water to keep it from becoming too thick or dry.
Can I Add Other Vegetables?
Yes, feel free to mix in other vegetables like spinach, bell peppers, or cherry tomatoes! Just adjust the cooking time slightly to ensure everything is cooked through but still vibrant. Add spinach at the end, just before incorporating the tortellini, as it wilts quickly.
