Bacon Cream Cheese Tortellini
This Bacon Cream Cheese Tortellini combines cheese-filled pasta with crispy bacon and a silky cream cheese sauce, creating an irresistible comfort dish that’s ready in just 20 minutes.
Bacon Cream Cheese Tortellini Ingredients
For this decadent yet simple pasta dish, you’ll need:
- 1 package (20 oz) refrigerated cheese tortellini
- 8 slices bacon, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 oz cream cheese, softened and cubed
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup reserved pasta water
- 1/2 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese, plus more for serving
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
- 1 tablespoon fresh basil, chopped (optional)
- 1 tablespoon butter
The star ingredients working together create a luxurious sauce that coats each tortellini perfectly. The cream cheese adds tanginess while the bacon brings a smoky crunch that elevates this dish to restaurant quality.
Tools Used to Make Bacon Cream Cheese Tortellini
Having the right tools on hand makes this recipe even easier:
- Large pot for boiling pasta
- Colander for draining
- Large skillet or sauté pan
- Wooden spoon or spatula
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Grater for the Parmesan cheese
- Sharp knife and cutting board
These basic kitchen tools are all you need to create this impressive dish in minutes. The large skillet is particularly important as it allows the sauce to come together perfectly without overcrowding.
How to Make Bacon Cream Cheese Tortellini
Follow these simple steps for pasta perfection:
- Cook the tortellini: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the tortellini according to package directions until al dente. Before draining, reserve 1/2 cup of pasta water. Drain tortellini and set aside.
- Prepare the bacon: While the pasta cooks, add chopped bacon to a large skillet over medium heat. Cook until crispy, about 5-7 minutes. Transfer about 1/4 of the bacon to a paper towel-lined plate for garnish.
- Make the sauce: Reduce heat to medium-low. Add minced garlic to the remaining bacon and drippings, cooking for 30 seconds until fragrant. Add cubed cream cheese, stirring until it begins to melt.
- Create the cream sauce: Slowly pour in the heavy cream while stirring continuously. Let the mixture simmer for 2-3 minutes until slightly thickened.
- Add the pasta: Gently fold in the cooked tortellini, adding splashes of reserved pasta water as needed to reach your desired sauce consistency.
- Finish the dish: Stir in the Parmesan cheese, butter, red pepper flakes, salt, and pepper. Cook for another minute until everything is well combined and the cheese has melted.
- Serve: Transfer to serving bowls, top with reserved crispy bacon, fresh herbs, and additional Parmesan cheese.
The entire process takes about 20 minutes from start to finish, making this an ideal weeknight meal that tastes like you spent hours in the kitchen!
Variations of Bacon Cream Cheese Tortellini
This versatile recipe can be customized in several delicious ways:
- Protein Additions: Add grilled chicken, sautéed shrimp, or Italian sausage for extra protein.
- Vegetable Boost: Mix in spinach, peas, sun-dried tomatoes, or sautéed mushrooms for added nutrition and flavor.
- Different Tortellini: Try spinach, mushroom, or chicken-filled tortellini for a flavor twist.
- Lighter Version: Use light cream cheese and half-and-half instead of heavy cream.
- Spicy Kick: Increase the red pepper flakes or add a dash of cayenne pepper.
- Herb Variations: Experiment with different herbs like thyme, oregano, or sage.
Each variation brings a unique twist while maintaining the creamy, comforting essence of the original dish.
Serving Bacon Cream Cheese Tortellini
This rich pasta dish pairs beautifully with:
- Fresh Spring Salad with Herb Vinaigrette to balance the richness
- Garlic bread or crusty Italian bread for soaking up extra sauce
- Roasted vegetables like asparagus, broccoli, or Brussels sprouts
- A glass of crisp white wine such as Pinot Grigio or Sauvignon Blanc
For an elegant presentation, serve in warmed pasta bowls with a sprinkle of additional Parmesan, fresh herbs, and a few turns of black pepper. This dish is equally perfect for a casual family dinner or entertaining guests.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make Bacon Cream Cheese Tortellini ahead of time?
While best enjoyed fresh, you can prepare the components ahead of time. Cook the bacon and refrigerate it separately from the tortellini. When ready to serve, reheat the bacon in a skillet, make the cream sauce, and add freshly cooked tortellini.
How do I store leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. The sauce may thicken when chilled. When reheating, add a splash of milk or cream and warm gently over low heat, stirring frequently.
Can I freeze this dish?
Freezing isn’t recommended as cream-based sauces tend to separate when thawed and the tortellini texture can become mushy.
What can I substitute for heavy cream?
Half-and-half or whole milk can work, though the sauce won’t be as thick. If using milk, consider adding an extra tablespoon of butter to help with richness and thickening.
Can I use dried herbs instead of fresh?
Yes, but reduce the amount to 1/3 of what the recipe calls for with fresh herbs, as dried herbs are more concentrated in flavor.
What type of bacon works best?
Regular cut bacon works perfectly. For a smokier flavor, try applewood or hickory smoked bacon. For less fat, turkey bacon can be substituted, though the drippings will be minimal.
Final Thoughts
This Bacon Cream Cheese Tortellini transforms simple ingredients into a restaurant-quality meal in minutes. Perfect for busy families or date nights, it’s sure to become your new go-to comfort food recipe!
More Recipes to Try!
If you enjoyed this creamy pasta dish, you’ll love these other comforting recipes: