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Bacon Tortellini Alfredo is a rich, creamy, and satisfying dish that brings together smoky bacon, tender cheese tortellini, and a luxurious Alfredo sauce. It’s the kind of comfort food that turns a regular dinner into something indulgent and memorable. Perfect for busy weeknights or when you’re craving something decadent, this recipe is both easy to make and absolutely delicious.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Bacon Tortellini Alfredo is a total crowd-pleaser. The crispy bacon adds the perfect savory crunch, while the cheese-filled tortellini makes each bite satisfyingly hearty. The creamy Alfredo sauce ties it all together with a buttery, garlicky richness that makes this dish feel like a restaurant-quality meal right from your kitchen. It’s quick to prepare, family-friendly, and endlessly customizable.

ingredients

this Recipe

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• Cheese tortellini
• Bacon
• Butter
• Garlic
• Heavy cream
• Parmesan cheese
• Salt
• Black pepper
• Fresh parsley (optional, for garnish)

directions

1. Cook the tortellini according to package directions. Drain and set aside.
2. Cook the bacon in a large skillet over medium heat until crispy. Remove and place on a paper towel-lined plate. Discard excess bacon fat, leaving about 1 tablespoon in the skillet.
3. Add butter and garlic to the skillet and sauté for 1 minute until fragrant.
4. Pour in heavy cream, stirring constantly. Let simmer for 3–4 minutes.
5. Add grated Parmesan cheese, and continue stirring until the sauce thickens. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Add the cooked tortellini to the sauce and stir to coat.
7. Crumble the cooked bacon and stir most of it into the pasta, reserving a bit for topping.
8. Serve hot, garnished with remaining bacon and fresh parsley if desired.

Servings and timing

This recipe makes about 4 servings.
Prep time: 10 minutes
Cook time: 20 minutes
Total time: 30 minutes

Variations

• Add veggies: Toss in some sautéed spinach, peas, or sun-dried tomatoes for a pop of color and nutrition.
• Switch the tortellini: Use meat-filled or spinach tortellini instead of cheese for a different flavor profile.
• Spice it up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the Alfredo sauce for a hint of heat.
• Protein boost: Add grilled chicken or shrimp along with the bacon for a meatier version.

storage/reheating

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
To reheat, place in a saucepan over low heat with a splash of milk or cream to loosen the sauce, stirring until warmed through. You can also reheat it in the microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring in between, until hot.

FAQs

How do I keep the Alfredo sauce from separating when reheating?

Add a splash of milk or cream while reheating over low heat and stir continuously to help the sauce emulsify again.

Can I use store-bought Alfredo sauce?

Yes, store-bought Alfredo sauce works fine for convenience, though homemade offers better flavor and freshness.

What kind of tortellini is best for this dish?

Cheese tortellini is classic, but meat or spinach-filled tortellini are great alternatives depending on your taste preference.

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Yes, you can make it ahead and reheat it later, though it’s best served fresh for optimal texture and flavor.

Is this dish freezer-friendly?

It’s not ideal for freezing, as cream-based sauces can separate when thawed and reheated.

How can I make it lighter?

Use half-and-half instead of heavy cream and reduce the amount of bacon or use turkey bacon.

Can I add mushrooms?

Absolutely. Sautéed mushrooms pair wonderfully with Alfredo sauce and bacon.

What can I use instead of Parmesan cheese?

You can use Romano or Asiago cheese, but Parmesan is preferred for its classic flavor in Alfredo sauce.

How do I know when the sauce is thick enough?

It should coat the back of a spoon and leave a trail when you run your finger through it.

Can I make this gluten-free?

Use gluten-free tortellini and ensure all other ingredients (especially the bacon and cheese) are certified gluten-free.

Conclusion

Bacon Tortellini Alfredo is the ultimate comfort food—creamy, cheesy, and packed with flavor. Whether you’re cooking for family, friends, or just treating yourself, this dish is easy to make and sure to impress. Try it once and it’ll become a regular in your weeknight rotation.

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