Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Creamy Tortellini with Peas, Asparagus, and Bacon is a comforting, flavor-packed pasta dish that’s both hearty and fresh. Tender cheese-filled tortellini are tossed in a velvety cream sauce with sweet peas, crisp asparagus, and crispy bacon for a balanced blend of rich, salty, and vibrant spring flavors. It’s a perfect one-pan meal for busy weeknights or casual gatherings.

ingredients

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

cheese tortellinithick-cut bacongarlic clovesasparagusbaby peas (fresh or frozen)heavy creamParmesan cheeseolive oilblack peppersalt

directions

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the tortellini according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.

In a large skillet, cook the bacon over medium heat until crispy. Remove with a slotted spoon and set aside, leaving about 1 tablespoon of bacon fat in the pan.

Add a splash of olive oil to the pan, then sauté the garlic for about 1 minute until fragrant.

Add the chopped asparagus and cook for 3–4 minutes until just tender.

Stir in the peas and cook for another 2 minutes.

Pour in the heavy cream and bring to a gentle simmer. Let it cook for 3–4 minutes, allowing it to thicken slightly.

Add the cooked tortellini and crispy bacon back into the pan. Stir to coat everything evenly in the creamy sauce.

Sprinkle in the Parmesan cheese and mix well until melted and creamy.

Season with salt and freshly cracked black pepper to taste.

Serve warm with extra Parmesan on top, if desired.

Servings and timing

This recipe yields approximately 4 servings.
Preparation time: 10 minutes
Cooking time: 20 minutes
Total time: 30 minutes

Variations

Use pancetta or turkey bacon instead of traditional bacon for a twist.

Swap out asparagus for broccoli or green beans based on what’s in season.

Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a spicy kick.

Substitute the cream with half-and-half or a plant-based alternative for a lighter version.

Toss in a handful of spinach or arugula for extra greens.

storage/reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
To reheat, warm on the stovetop over medium-low heat with a splash of cream or milk to loosen the sauce.
Microwave in short bursts, stirring in between to ensure even heating.

FAQs

Can I use frozen tortellini?

Yes, just cook them according to the package instructions before adding to the sauce.

Is this dish kid-friendly?

Absolutely! The creamy sauce and cheesy tortellini make it a hit with kids.

Can I make this vegetarian?

Yes, just omit the bacon or replace it with plant-based bacon or sautéed mushrooms for umami flavor.

How do I avoid overcooking the asparagus?

Keep a close eye and cook just until bright green and slightly tender—about 3–4 minutes.

Can I make it ahead of time?

You can prep the ingredients ahead, but for the best texture, it’s recommended to combine and serve fresh.

Conclusion

Creamy Tortellini with Peas, Asparagus, and Bacon is a deliciously satisfying meal that’s easy enough for weeknights but elegant enough for entertaining. With its creamy texture, savory bacon, and bursts of green vegetables, this pasta brings comfort and freshness to your plate. One bite, and it’ll earn a spot in your regular rotation.