If you love rich, creamy pasta dishes that are packed with flavor, Bacon Tortellini Alfredo is your ultimate comfort food. This dish combines tender cheese-filled tortellini, crispy bacon, and a luscious homemade Alfredo sauce for a decadent, crowd-pleasing meal. Perfect for weeknight dinners, special occasions, or when you want a touch of indulgence, this pasta is sure to become a family favorite.
Why You’ll Love Bacon Tortellini Alfredo
- ✔ Rich and creamy Alfredo sauce
- ✔ Cheesy cheese-filled tortellini
- ✔ Crispy bacon adds a savory crunch
- ✔ Quick and easy to make in under 30 minutes
- ✔ Perfect for family dinners or date nights
Ingredients
For the Pasta
- 1 lb cheese tortellini (fresh or frozen)
- 6 slices of bacon, chopped
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
For the Alfredo Sauce
- 1 cup heavy cream
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- ¼ teaspoon nutmeg (optional, for warmth)
Optional Garnishes
- Chopped fresh parsley
- Extra grated Parmesan cheese
How to Make Bacon Tortellini Alfredo
Step 1: Cook the Tortellini
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook tortellini according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside, reserving ½ cup of pasta water.
Step 2: Cook the Bacon
In a large skillet over medium heat, cook chopped bacon until crispy. Remove bacon and place on paper towels to drain. Reserve a little bacon fat in the skillet for extra flavor.
Step 3: Make the Alfredo Sauce
- In the same skillet, melt butter over medium heat.
- Add minced garlic and sauté for 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Pour in heavy cream and simmer for 2–3 minutes.
- Gradually stir in grated Parmesan cheese until smooth.
- Season with salt, pepper, and nutmeg if using.
- If the sauce is too thick, add a splash of reserved pasta water to reach desired consistency.
Step 4: Combine Pasta, Bacon, and Sauce
- Add cooked tortellini to the Alfredo sauce.
- Toss gently to coat every piece evenly.
- Stir in crispy bacon, reserving a few pieces for garnish.
Step 5: Serve
- Plate the creamy tortellini and sprinkle with reserved bacon, chopped parsley, and extra Parmesan cheese.
- Serve immediately while warm.
Tips for the Best Bacon Tortellini Alfredo
- Use fresh tortellini if possible for extra tenderness.
- Don’t overcook the pasta—al dente tortellini holds up better in creamy sauce.
- Reserve pasta water—it helps thin the sauce and makes it silky.
- Cook garlic lightly—burned garlic will make the sauce bitter.
- Add extra bacon—for a more indulgent flavor.
Variations
1. Chicken Bacon Tortellini Alfredo
Add cooked diced chicken for extra protein.
2. Veggie Version
Include spinach, mushrooms, or peas for a colorful and nutritious twist.
3. Spicy Alfredo
Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a drizzle of hot sauce for a kick.
4. Cheesy Twist
Mix in mozzarella or fontina for an even cheesier, gooey sauce.
Serving Suggestions
- Serve with garlic bread or breadsticks
- Pair with a green salad with vinaigrette
- Sprinkle fresh herbs like basil or parsley for a burst of flavor
- Top with extra Parmesan for a restaurant-style presentation
Storage
- Refrigerator: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a skillet over low heat or microwave, adding a splash of milk to loosen the sauce.
- Freezing: Not recommended—Alfredo sauce can separate when frozen.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use store-bought Alfredo sauce?
Yes! You can replace the homemade sauce with store-bought, but homemade is richer and creamier.
Can I make this ahead of time?
You can cook tortellini and bacon ahead, but combine with the Alfredo sauce just before serving for best results.
Can I use turkey bacon or pancetta?
Absolutely! Turkey bacon works for a lighter version, and pancetta adds extra depth of flavor.
Final Thoughts
Bacon Tortellini Alfredo is the perfect combination of creamy, cheesy, and savory flavors. With tender tortellini, a rich homemade sauce, and crispy bacon, this dish is an easy yet indulgent meal that everyone will love. Quick to make and perfect for family dinners or special occasions, it’s a recipe that deserves a spot on your weekly menu.
Print
Bacon Tortellini Alfredo – Creamy, Cheesy, and Irresistible
Ingredients
• 9 oz refrigerated or frozen cheese tortellini
• 6 slices thick-cut bacon, chopped
• 2 tbsp unsalted butter
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup heavy cream (or full-fat canned coconut milk for dairy-free)
• ¾ cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese (plus extra for serving)
• ¼ tsp freshly ground nutmeg
• Salt & black pepper to taste
• Optional: 1 cup baby spinach, chopped parsley, or sun-dried tomatoes
Instructions
- Cook tortellini according to package directions (usually 2–3 mins for fresh, 5–6 for frozen). Drain, reserving ¼ cup pasta water.
- Meanwhile, cook bacon in a large skillet over medium heat until crisp (5–6 mins). Remove with slotted spoon; set aside. Leave 1 tbsp drippings in pan.
- Add butter and garlic to skillet; sauté 1 min until fragrant (don’t brown!).
- Pour in heavy cream; simmer gently 3–4 mins until slightly thickened. Reduce heat to low.
- Gradually whisk in Parmesan until smooth and velvety. Stir in nutmeg, salt, and pepper.
- Add cooked tortellini and half the bacon; toss to coat. If too thick, add reserved pasta water 1 tbsp at a time.
- Stir in spinach (if using) until wilted.
- Serve immediately, topped with remaining bacon, extra Parmesan, and a sprinkle of black pepper.
PREP TIME & NUTRITION :
Prep Time: 5 mins, Cook Time: 15 mins, Total Time: 20 mins, Servings: 4
Calories: 520, Net Carbs: 32g, Fats: 36g, Protein: 19g
✅ Keto-friendly as-is (net carbs stay ~5g if using low-carb tortellini or zucchini ribbons instead!)