This creamy tortellini dish is a perfect blend of cheesy pasta, fresh peas, crisp asparagus, and crunchy bacon. It’s hearty and comforting, making it a family favorite!
You know it’s a hit when the kids ask for seconds! I love how quick it comes together—just cook, mix, and enjoy. Perfect for a weeknight dinner!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Tortellini: Cheese tortellini is essential for this dish; it adds a delicious flavor and texture. You can substitute with meat or spinach tortellini if you prefer, or even use other pasta shapes like farfalle or fettuccine.
Bacon: The bacon contributes a nice crunch and smokiness. If you’re looking for a healthier option, turkey bacon works well, or for a vegetarian option, try using smoked paprika to mimic the flavor without the meat.
Asparagus: Fresh asparagus is great for its texture and taste. If it’s out of season, you could replace it with green beans or zucchini, both of which add a nice crunch.
Heavy cream: For a lighter version, you can use half and half or even evaporated milk. Just keep in mind that the sauce will be less rich.
Parmesan cheese: Grated Parmesan adds depth to the sauce. If you’re dairy-free, consider using nutritional yeast or a dairy-free cheese alternative to keep that cheesy flavor.
How Do I Cook the Perfect Asparagus?
Cooking asparagus quickly helps to keep it tender yet crisp, which is ideal for this dish. Here’s how to do it:
- Start with fresh asparagus. Snap off the woody ends, and cut them into 1-inch pieces as called for.
- In your skillet, heat it over medium-high. Add a bit of olive oil if there’s not enough bacon fat.
- Sauté the asparagus for about 3-4 minutes, just until it turns bright green and is fork-tender. Overcooking can make it mushy, so keep an eye on it!
Adding the garlic right after will enhance the flavor without burning it. Enjoy the puff of aroma; it’s one of my favorite cooking moments!
How to Make Creamy Tortellini with Peas, Asparagus, and Bacon
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Dish:
- 1 (9 oz) package cheese tortellini
- 6 slices of bacon, diced
- 1 cup fresh asparagus, 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
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 20 minutes in total. You’ll spend about 10 minutes cooking the tortellini and preparing the sauce, then about another 10 minutes sautéing the vegetables and combining everything. It’s a quick and delicious meal for any night!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Tortellini:
Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Once it’s boiling, add the cheese tortellini and cook according to the package instructions until they are al dente. This will usually take about 3-5 minutes. Once done, drain the tortellini and set them aside for later.
2. Prepare the Bacon:
While the tortellini cooks, take a large skillet and heat it over medium heat. Add the diced bacon and cook it until it’s crispy, which should take about 5-7 minutes. After the bacon is crispy, use a slotted spoon to remove it from the skillet and place it on paper towels to drain. Make sure to leave the bacon fat in the skillet—this adds great flavor!
3. Sauté Asparagus and Garlic:
In the same skillet, check if you need to add some olive oil (if there isn’t enough bacon fat left). Then, add the asparagus pieces and sauté them for about 3-4 minutes, until they are tender but still a little crisp. Next, add the minced garlic and let it cook for an additional minute. Stir things around to get all the flavors mixed!
4. Add Peas and Create the Sauce:
Now it’s time to add the frozen peas to the skillet. Stir them in and let them heat through for a minute or so. Then pour in the heavy cream and bring everything to a gentle simmer. Add in the grated Parmesan cheese and stir until the cheese melts into a creamy sauce. Season this delicious mixture with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Combine Everything:
Take the cooked tortellini and crispy bacon, and gently toss them into the skillet with the creamy sauce and vegetables. Mix everything thoroughly so that the tortellini is nicely coated in that rich sauce. Let it heat through for a minute more if needed.
6. Serve and Enjoy:
Once everything is combined and heated, it’s time to serve! Dish out the creamy tortellini into bowls or plates, and sprinkle with freshly chopped parsley for a lovely garnish. Enjoy your delicious meal!
Can I Use Other Types of Pasta in This Recipe?
Absolutely! While cheese tortellini adds a delicious flavor, you can substitute it with any pasta shape you like, such as penne or farfalle. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time based on the pasta type to ensure it cooks to al dente.
How Can I Make This Dish Vegetarian?
To make this creamy dish vegetarian, simply omit the bacon. You can add some sautéed mushrooms or extra veggies like bell peppers or zucchini for additional flavor and texture. Consider using smoked paprika to add a hint of smokiness!
Can I Prepare This Recipe Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can prep the ingredients ahead of time! Cook the tortellini and chop your ingredients in advance, then refrigerate them. However, it’s best to cook and combine everything when you’re ready to eat to maintain the freshest taste and texture.
How Should 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 over low heat, adding a splash of cream or milk if the sauce has thickened too much. Stir occasionally for even heating!
