If you love the rich, indulgent flavors of traditional carbonara, you’re going to fall head over heels for this Creamy Tortellini Carbonara. Instead of classic spaghetti, we’re using pillowy cheese-filled tortellini tossed in a velvety cream sauce with crispy bacon, Parmesan, and a touch of garlic. It’s an easy weeknight dinner that feels like a restaurant-worthy dish!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Creamy & Comforting – A luxurious sauce that coats every bite.
- Easy Yet Impressive – Only a handful of ingredients, ready in under 30 minutes.
- Family-Friendly – Kids and adults alike will devour it.
- Elevated Twist – Tortellini adds extra cheesy goodness to the classic carbonara style.
Ingredients
- 20 oz cheese tortellini (fresh or refrigerated)
- 6 slices bacon (or pancetta), diced
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 2 large egg yolks
- 1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt & black pepper, to taste
- Fresh parsley, for garnish
Instructions
- Cook the Tortellini – Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook tortellini according to package instructions. Reserve ½ cup pasta water, then drain.
- Crisp the Bacon – In a large skillet, cook bacon over medium heat until golden and crispy. Remove and set aside, leaving about 1 tbsp of drippings in the pan.
- Sauté Garlic – Add garlic to the skillet and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
- Make the Sauce – In a bowl, whisk together heavy cream, egg yolks, and Parmesan cheese. Slowly pour mixture into the skillet, whisking continuously over low heat to prevent curdling.
- Combine – Add cooked tortellini and bacon into the skillet, tossing gently to coat. If the sauce is too thick, stir in a splash of reserved pasta water.
- Finish & Serve – Season with salt and black pepper, garnish with parsley, and serve immediately.
Variations & Add-Ins
- Vegetarian – Swap bacon for sautéed mushrooms or roasted zucchini.
- Protein Boost – Add grilled chicken or shrimp for a heartier meal.
- Spicy Kick – Sprinkle with red pepper flakes for a little heat.
- Lighter Option – Use half-and-half instead of heavy cream.
Serving Suggestions
Pair your Creamy Tortellini Carbonara with:
- A crisp side salad 🥗
- Garlic bread or focaccia 🍞
- A chilled glass of white wine 🍷
Storage & Reheating
- Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Reheat gently on the stove with a splash of cream or milk to loosen the sauce.
- Avoid microwaving too long as it can cause the sauce to separate.
This Creamy Tortellini Carbonara is the ultimate comfort food—cheesy, indulgent, and bursting with flavor. Whether it’s a cozy weeknight meal or a special dinner, this dish will become a family favorite in no time!