Bacon Tortellini Alfredo Cream

This bacon tortellini Alfredo is pure comfort in a bowl with a tangy cream cheese sauce, crispy bacon, and plenty of parmesan. It is the kind of dish I turn to when I want a weeknight treat that feels special but comes together quick. Whether served as a main course or a rich side, it always disappears fast at my table.

I remember preparing this for a last-minute family gathering. No one could believe how easy it was and now my brother requests it whenever he visits.

Ingredients

• Refrigerated cheese tortellini: gives the dish an extra tender and cheesy bite Look for fresh tortellini in the deli section for the best texture
• Bacon: delivers that irresistible smoky crunch Use thick sliced bacon for bigger flavor and easy cutting with kitchen shears
• Garlic: brings a delicate aromatic boost Use fresh cloves and mince just before cooking for potent flavor
• Chicken broth: brightens up the rich sauce Opt for a low sodium variety to control salt
• Heavy or whipping cream: makes the sauce lavishly creamy Full fat cream is best here for silky results
• Cream cheese: tempers the sauce with tang and extra smoothness Philadelphia brand is my favorite
• Freshly grated parmesan cheese: melts in better than pre shredded Add extra for topping at the end
• Salt and black pepper: round out the flavors Taste as you go and adjust to your preference

Step-by-Step Instructions

Boil the Tortellini:

Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil Give the tortellini a quick stir after adding and cook just until they float and become tender This usually takes a couple minutes so cook them once your sauce is ready to avoid mushiness

Cook the Bacon:

Slice bacon into small pieces using kitchen shears Place in a cold skillet over medium high heat and let the fat render out Stir occasionally until the bacon is evenly crispy and golden brown About ten minutes is perfect

Drain the Bacon and Reserve Fat:

Use a slotted spoon to transfer cooked bacon to a paper towel lined plate Carefully pour off the bacon fat from the pan leaving behind about one tablespoon Discard the rest to prevent the sauce from being greasy

Build the Cream Sauce:

Add minced garlic to the bacon fat in the pan and allow it to release fragrance but not brown Pour in chicken broth heavy cream and add the softened cream cheese Place the pan back over medium heat Stir gently allowing the cream cheese to melt and the sauce to become creamy and smooth Watch for gentle bubbles and keep stirring for about five minutes until the sauce thickens

Finish with Parmesan and Bacon:

Turn off the heat and quickly stir in freshly grated parmesan until melted Scatter the cooked bacon back in Taste and add salt and pepper if needed

Toss with Tortellini and Serve:

Transfer cooked and drained tortellini into the skillet Toss everything together so each pasta piece is coated in sauce If your sauce looks too thick add a couple spoonfuls of reserved hot pasta water to loosen it up Serve right away while hot and creamy

Save

My favorite part of this recipe is always the bacon I love how the salty crunch contrasts the pillowy tortellini Every time I make this with my niece we compete for the crispy bits left in the pan and that tradition makes each bite more special

Storage Tips

This dish keeps well in the fridge for up to three days Make sure to store in a tightly covered container Reheat gently over low heat with a splash of cream or milk to loosen the sauce You can also freeze leftovers though the texture of the pasta may soften a bit after thawing

Ingredient Substitutions

You can swap out cheese tortellini for spinach or meat stuffed tortellini without trouble Smoked turkey or pancetta can be substituted for bacon for a different flavor kick Half and half can work in place of heavy cream but the sauce will not be quite as thick Feel free to add a handful of frozen peas or baby spinach to the sauce for a little veg

Save

Serving Suggestions

Serve this bacon tortellini Alfredo as a main dish on its own or alongside a crisp arugula salad and a simple vinaigrette Warm garlic bread or a side of roasted broccoli round out the meal nicely For a more elegant presentation sprinkle extra parmesan and chopped parsley over the top

Recipe FAQs

→ What kind of tortellini works best?

Refrigerated cheese tortellini is ideal for a tender bite and quick cooking time. Fresh or frozen varieties can also be used, adjusting the boiling time as needed.

→ Can I substitute the bacon?

Yes, pancetta or prosciutto can be used for similar savory flavor, or try turkey bacon for a lighter option.

→ How do I make the sauce smoother?

Let the cream cheese soften before melting and whisk the sauce constantly until there are no lumps. Add pasta water to loosen if the sauce thickens too much.

→ What side dishes pair well?

Crisp green salads, roasted vegetables, or a simple garlic bread make great accompaniments to balance the rich flavors.

→ How can I store leftovers?

Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat gently with a splash of milk or cream to keep the sauce creamy.