Description

Craving a rich, indulgent meal that’s quick enough for a busy weeknight but feels like a restaurant treat? The Tortellini Carbonara recipe is your answer! This dish combines cheesy tortellini with crispy bacon, a velvety cream sauce, and fresh parsley for a decadent yet simple pasta dinner.

Ingredients

To make Tortellini Carbonara for 4 servings, you’ll need these key ingredients. Each one adds a layer of flavor or texture to this decadent dish:

Refrigerated Cheese Tortellini (1 package, 9 oz): Tender pasta filled with cheese for a hearty base.
Bacon Strips (8, chopped): Adds smoky, crispy richness.
Heavy Whipping Cream (1 cup): Creates a velvety, rich sauce.
Grated Parmesan Cheese (½ cup): Brings nutty, savory depth.
Chopped Fresh Parsley (½ cup): Adds a fresh, herbaceous finish.

Substitutions and Variations:

Tortellini: Swap with refrigerated spinach, mushroom, or meat-filled tortellini, or use ravioli or dried tortellini (adjust cooking time).
Bacon: Replace with pancetta, turkey bacon, or plant-based bacon for a vegetarian option.
Heavy Cream: Substitute with half-and-half for a lighter sauce or a dairy-free cream alternative.
Parmesan: Use Pecorino Romano, Grana Padano, or a dairy-free cheese alternative.
Add-Ons: Include sautéed mushrooms, peas, spinach, or garlic for extra flavor.

Why These Ingredients Matter: The tortellini and bacon provide protein and heartiness, while the cream and Parmesan create a rich, indulgent sauce. The parsley adds freshness, making this a balanced yet decadent meal perfect for comfort food lovers.

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Instructions

Step 1: Cook the Tortellini

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook 1 package (9 oz) refrigerated cheese tortellini according to package directions (typically 4–7 minutes until al dente).
Drain and set aside.

Tip: Reserve ¼ cup pasta water before draining in case you need to thin the sauce later.

Step 2: Cook the Bacon

In a large skillet, cook 8 chopped bacon strips over medium heat for 5–7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until crisp.
Remove bacon with a slotted spoon to a paper towel-lined plate to drain.
Pour off the bacon drippings from the skillet, leaving a clean pan (or reserve 1 tsp for extra flavor if desired).

Tip: Chop bacon into small pieces for even cooking, and stir occasionally to prevent sticking.

Step 3: Make the Carbonara Sauce

In the same skillet, combine 1 cup heavy whipping cream, ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese, ½ cup chopped fresh parsley, and the cooked bacon.
Heat over medium heat for 2–3 minutes, stirring gently, until the sauce is warmed through and slightly thickened.

Tip: Stir constantly to melt the Parmesan smoothly, and avoid boiling to prevent the cream from curdling.

Step 4: Combine and Serve

Add the drained tortellini to the skillet and toss gently to coat in the sauce.
If the sauce is too thick, add a splash of reserved pasta water to reach desired consistency.
Serve immediately in bowls or on plates.

Tip: Serve hot to enjoy the creamy sauce and tender tortellini at their best.