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Creamy Spring Tortellini with Peas, Asparagus, and Bacon Recipe


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4.1 from 10 reviews

  • Author: Eliza
  • Total Time: 30 minutes
  • Yield: 2 servings

Description

This Creamy Spring Tortellini with Peas, Asparagus, and Bacon is a delightful 30-minute meal perfect for celebrating fresh spring produce. Tender three cheese tortellini is cooked and tossed in a rich, creamy sauce made from heavy cream and Parmesan cheese, combined with sautéed peas, asparagus, and crispy bacon for a savory touch. This comforting yet fresh pasta dish is ideal for a quick weeknight dinner or a cozy weekend lunch.


Ingredients

Pasta

  • 9 oz three cheese tortellini

Vegetables

  • 1/2 small yellow onion, thinly sliced
  • 3/4 cup peas (frozen or fresh)
  • 1 cup chopped asparagus
  • 2 large garlic cloves

Dairy

  • 1 cup heavy whipping cream
  • 1/2 cup shaved Parmesan cheese

Meat

  • 0.25 lb crispy slices of bacon (5-6 slices)

Seasoning & Oil

  • Salt, to taste
  • Fresh cracked black pepper, to taste
  • Oil for cooking (2 tablespoons or as needed)


Instructions

  1. Cook Tortellini: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the three cheese tortellini and cook according to the package instructions until tender. Drain well and set aside.
  2. Sauté Onions: Preheat a large cooking pan over medium heat and add a couple of tablespoons of cooking oil. Add the thinly sliced yellow onions and sauté until they become transparent and soft, about 3-4 minutes.
  3. Add Vegetables: Add the peas and chopped asparagus to the pan. Sauté the vegetables until the asparagus begins to soften, approximately 3-4 minutes. Press in the minced garlic cloves and season with salt and freshly cracked black pepper. Stir well to combine and cook the vegetables for another 5 minutes until tender.
  4. Create Creamy Sauce: Pour in the heavy whipping cream while continuously stirring to combine. Add the shaved Parmesan cheese and stir until the cheese melts into a smooth, creamy sauce. Taste the sauce and adjust salt and pepper as necessary.
  5. Combine Tortellini and Sauce: Stir the cooked tortellini into the creamy vegetable sauce, ensuring the pasta is thoroughly coated. Cook for an additional 2 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
  6. Add Bacon: Chop the crispy cooked bacon slices into small pieces and gently fold them into the tortellini mixture right before removing the pan from heat to maintain their crispiness.
  7. Serve: Plate the creamy tortellini hot and enjoy this flavorful spring-inspired dish.

Notes

  • You can use frozen peas if fresh peas are not available—just thaw before adding.
  • If you prefer a lighter sauce, substitute half-and-half for heavy cream, though the sauce will be less rich.
  • For a vegetarian version, omit bacon and add toasted pine nuts or mushrooms for extra flavor and texture.
  • To ensure a crispy bacon texture, cook bacon separately until crunchy and drain on paper towels before adding.
  • Use freshly grated Parmesan for best melting and flavor.
  • Adjust seasoning carefully after adding cream and cheese, as Parmesan adds saltiness.
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 20 minutes
  • Category: Main Course
  • Method: Stovetop
  • Cuisine: Italian