Bacon Tortellini Alfredo is a rich, creamy pasta dish that combines the deliciousness of cheesy tortellini with the savory crunch of crispy bacon, all smothered in a luscious Alfredo sauce. It’s perfect for a comforting weeknight meal or a special occasion. Here’s a simple recipe to make it:
Ingredients:
- 1 package (about 9 oz) refrigerated cheese tortellini (or frozen)
- 6 slices of bacon, chopped
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 teaspoon Italian seasoning (optional)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions:
- Cook the tortellini:
- Cook the cheese tortellini according to the package instructions. Once done, drain and set aside, reserving a little pasta water (about 1/4 cup) in case you need to thin the sauce later.
- Cook the bacon:
- While the tortellini is cooking, heat a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped bacon and cook until crispy, about 5-7 minutes. Once cooked, remove the bacon from the skillet and set it aside on a plate lined with paper towels to drain.
- Make the Alfredo sauce:
- In the same skillet, remove some of the bacon fat if there’s too much, leaving about 1 tablespoon in the pan. Add the butter to the skillet and melt it over medium heat.
- Add the minced garlic and cook for about 1 minute until fragrant, being careful not to burn the garlic.
- Pour in the heavy cream and bring it to a simmer. Let it simmer for 3-4 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the cream begins to thicken.
- Add the cheese:
- Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese and Italian seasoning (if using), continuing to stir until the cheese has melted and the sauce becomes smooth. Taste the sauce and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper.
- Combine the tortellini and bacon:
- Add the cooked tortellini to the Alfredo sauce and toss gently to coat the pasta in the sauce. If the sauce seems too thick, add a little reserved pasta water to reach your desired consistency.
- Stir in the crispy bacon, mixing it into the pasta.
- Serve:
- Serve the Bacon Tortellini Alfredo immediately, garnished with freshly chopped parsley and extra Parmesan cheese, if desired.
Tips:
- Creaminess: For an even creamier sauce, you can add a splash of milk or more cream, depending on your preferences.
- Flavor Boost: Add a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes for a little heat or a squeeze of lemon juice for a tangy balance to the richness of the Alfredo.
- Vegetable option: You can add spinach or peas to the dish for some added veggies.
This Bacon Tortellini Alfredo is an indulgent and satisfying dish that brings together the best of both bacon and pasta in a creamy, comforting sauce. Enjoy!