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
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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