Bacon Tortellini Alfredo

• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
• Extra grated Parmesan cheese
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Instructions

Step 1: Cook the Tortellini

Start by cooking the cheese tortellini according to the package directions. This usually involves boiling it in salted water for 2–3 minutes if you’re using fresh tortellini, or about 7–9 minutes if it’s frozen. Once cooked, drain the tortellini and set it aside.

Step 2: Cook the Bacon

While the pasta is cooking, heat a large skillet over medium heat and add the chopped bacon. If your bacon is particularly lean, you may want to add a tablespoon of olive oil to prevent sticking. Cook the bacon until it becomes crispy and golden brown, about 5–7 minutes. Once done, transfer the bacon to a plate lined with paper towels to drain any excess grease.

Leave a little bit of the bacon fat in the skillet to flavor the sauce—this will add extra richness to the dish. If there’s too much fat, you can drain some off, but make sure a bit remains.

Step 3: Make the Alfredo Sauce

In the same skillet with the bacon fat, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for 1–2 minutes until fragrant and golden. Be careful not to burn the garlic.

Next, pour in the heavy cream and whole milk, stirring to combine. Bring the mixture to a simmer, and cook for 3–5 minutes, allowing the sauce to thicken slightly. Stir occasionally to prevent it from sticking to the pan.

Once the sauce has thickened, slowly whisk in the grated Parmesan cheese, continuing to stir until the cheese has fully melted into the sauce. Taste and season with salt and pepper to your liking. If you enjoy a little heat, sprinkle in a pinch of red pepper flakes.

Step 4: Combine Everything

Add the cooked tortellini and crispy bacon to the skillet with the Alfredo sauce. Stir gently to coat the pasta and bacon with the creamy sauce. If the sauce seems too thick, you can add a little extra milk to reach your desired consistency.

Continue to cook for another 2–3 minutes, allowing the pasta to heat through and absorb some of the sauce.

Step 5: Serve and Garnish

Once everything is well combined, transfer the Bacon Tortellini Alfredo to a serving dish or individual plates. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley and extra grated Parmesan cheese for an added touch of flavor and color.

Tips for Success

• Bacon Variations: If you prefer, you can substitute turkey bacon or pancetta for the traditional pork bacon to change up the flavor. However, regular bacon does add a nice smoky depth that complements the creamy Alfredo sauce.
• Fresh vs. Frozen Tortellini: Fresh tortellini cooks faster and is often a bit softer, while frozen tortellini may require a few extra minutes to cook. Either option works well in this recipe, so feel free to use what you have on hand.
• Make It Extra Creamy: For an even richer sauce, you can use half-and-half or replace the milk with extra cream. The more dairy, the creamier the result!
• Add Veggies: For a little extra color and nutrition, try adding some sautéed spinach, mushrooms, or peas to the dish. This is a great way to sneak in some vegetables without sacrificing flavor.
• Leftovers: Bacon Tortellini Alfredo makes delicious leftovers! Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2-3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop, adding a splash of milk to bring the sauce back to life.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

1. Quick and Easy: This recipe comes together in less than 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights or when you’re craving something indulgent without spending hours in the kitchen.
2. Creamy and Flavorful: The combination of bacon, cheese tortellini, and Alfredo sauce creates a creamy, rich dish that’s full of flavor. The crispy bacon adds the perfect salty crunch that complements the smooth, cheesy sauce.
3. One-Pan Wonder: With minimal cleanup, you can cook everything in one skillet, making the process both easy and efficient.
4. Family-Friendly: The creamy and cheesy nature of this dish makes it a hit with kids and adults alike. It’s a comforting meal that everyone will enjoy!

Conclusion

Bacon Tortellini Alfredo is the ultimate comfort food, bringing together the creamy richness of Alfredo sauce with the satisfying texture of cheese tortellini and the irresistible crunch of bacon. It’s quick, easy, and packed with flavor—perfect for a busy evening or any time you want to indulge in a delicious, satisfying meal. With just a few simple ingredients, you can create a dish that feels both luxurious and comforting. Enjoy every creamy, cheesy bite!