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Tortellini Carbonara
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Looking for a quick, delicious meal? Try our Tortellini Carbonara! This creamy pasta dish combines crispy bacon, cheese tortellini, and a rich, savory sauce. Perfect for busy weeknights, this easy recipe will become a family favorite.
Follow our easy guide below to make this recipe with step-by-step photos and directions. We include pro tips and tricks to help you perfect this dish. Plus, check out the most frequently asked questions and their answers!
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Looking for a mouthwatering dish that's ready in just 30 minutes? Our Tortellini Carbonara is perfect for dinner, potlucks, or special occasions. The creamy sauce, crispy bacon, and tender cheese tortellini create an irresistible combination. Try this recipe today and wow your family and friends with its rich, savory flavor.
Ingredients
What you'll need to make this Tortellini Carbonara recipe:
- 1 pound of tortellini
- 5 bacon slices, diced
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 2 whole eggs
- 2 egg yolks
- ½ cup of grated parmesan cheese
- ½ cup of heavy whipping cream
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Pro Tip
Using a high-quality cheese rather than any processed grated cheese in the shaker container for this recipe will give you the best results.
Substitutions and Additions
Personalize your Tortellini Carbonara recipe by swapping out ingredients and adding tasty extras! These simple changes can make your dish uniquely yours. Here are some top substitutions and additions:
- Substitute Bacon: Use pancetta or turkey bacon for a different flavor in your Tortellini Carbonara.
- Add Vegetables: Mix in peas, spinach, or mushrooms to add extra nutrition and flavor to your Tortellini Carbonara.
- Use Different Cheese: Swap Parmesan with Pecorino Romano or Asiago for a new twist on the classic cheese flavor.
- Add Protein: Include grilled chicken or shrimp to make your Tortellini Carbonara even more satisfying.
How to Make Tortellini Carbonara
Follow along with our pictures and step-by-step instructions to make this delicious carbonara. Don't miss the tips and tricks listed below. Let's get started!
FIRST STEP: Bring a large pot of water with salt to a boil. Add the tortellini to the boiling water and cook according to the package directions until al dente.
Drain the pasta and set it aside.
Pro Tip
Before draining the pasta, reserve some of the pasta water in a separate container. This water can be used to thin out the sauce if it becomes too thick.
SECOND STEP: In a large skillet, cook bacon over medium heat until it becomes crispy. Be sure to drain any extra bacon grease using a ladle or paper towels.
Add the minced garlic and cook until it becomes fragrant.
THIRD STEP: In a small bowl, whisk together the raw eggs, egg yolks, parmesan cheese, and heavy cream until the egg mixture is well combined.
FOURTH STEP: Add the cooked tortellini to the skillet with the cooked bacon and garlic, and toss all the ingredients to combine.
FIFTH STEP: Remove the skillet from heat, wait about ten seconds, then add the cream mixture. Stir the ingredients constantly to coat the tortellini.
The residual heat of the pasta and bacon will cook the eggs and create a creamy sauce.
SIXTH STEP: Season with salt and black pepper to taste. Garnish your cheese tortellini with chopped fresh parsley, if desired.
SEVENTH STEP: Serve your delicious hot pasta immediately, and enjoy!
Pro Tip
This pasta must be served hot and immediately after preparing it. It does not keep or reheat well.
How to Serve Tortellini Carbonara
You can serve Tortellini Carbonara at family dinners, parties, or special occasions. It's perfect for any season and loved by both kids and adults.
- Family Dinners: Tortellini Carbonara makes a fantastic family dinner. Kids love the creamy sauce and cheesy tortellini. Serve with a side of garlic bread and a fresh green salad for a complete meal.
- Parties and Special Occasions: Impress your guests with this elegant yet easy dish. Tortellini Carbonara is perfect for potlucks, birthdays, or celebrations. Pair it with a charcuterie board and a light dessert life a fluff salad.
- Seasonal Enjoyment: This dish works well in any season, whether it's a cozy winter meal or a summer gathering. Serve with roasted vegetables in winter or a chilled cucumber salad in summer.
Why You'll Love This Tortellini Carbonara Recipe
Tortellini Carbonara is a beloved favorite for several delightful reasons:
- A Symphony of Flavors: This recipe beautifully combines creamy sauce, crispy bacon, and cheesy tortellini. Each bite offers a perfect balance of rich, savory goodness.
- Evokes Warm Memories: Tortellini Carbonara brings to mind cozy family dinners and festive gatherings. Its comforting taste makes it a classic choice for any occasion.
- More Than Just Pasta: Beyond a simple pasta dish, Tortellini Carbonara is an experience of enticing textures and flavors. From the tender tortellini to the creamy, bacon-infused sauce, it delights the senses.
This pasta isn't just delicious—it's a comforting and joyful dish that enhances any occasion.
Recipe FAQ
Can I use fresh tortellini instead of frozen?
Yes, you can use fresh tortellini. Be sure they are cooked to el dente before adding them to the sauce.
What type of bacon works best for Tortellini Carbonara?
Thick-cut bacon works best. It adds a satisfying crunch and rich flavor to the creamy sauce.
How do I prevent the sauce from curdling?
Stir the sauce constantly over low heat and add the eggs gradually to avoid curdling.
Can I make Tortellini Carbonara ahead of time?
Yes, you can make it ahead. Reheat gently over low heat, stirring frequently to maintain the creamy texture.
Serving FAQ
How do I plate Tortellini Carbonara for a dinner party?
Use a large serving platter, garnishing with fresh parsley and extra grated Parmesan for an elegant presentation.
What wine pairs well with Tortellini Carbonara?
A crisp white wine like Pinot Grigio or Chardonnay pairs beautifully with the creamy sauce and bacon.
How can I serve Tortellini Carbonara at a potluck?
Keep it warm in a slow cooker on the "warm" setting, stirring occasionally to maintain the creamy texture.
What garnish works best for Tortellini Carbonara?
Freshly chopped parsley or basil, along with a sprinkle of grated Parmesan, adds a vibrant touch and extra flavor. You can also add a sprinkle of bacon on top.
Storage FAQ
Follow the directions, tips, and tricks below for optimal storage of your carbonara recipe. From making ahead to reheating, we've got you covered.
Can I prepare Tortellini Carbonara ahead of time?
Yes, cook the tortellini and prepare the sauce separately. Store them in airtight containers in the fridge for up to a day.
What's the best way to store leftover Tortellini Carbonara?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge. They will keep well for up to three days.
Is it possible to freeze Tortellini Carbonara?
While freshest is best, you can freeze cooked tortellini and sauce in an airtight container for up to one month.
How do I thaw and reheat frozen Tortellini Carbonara?
Thaw the dish in the fridge overnight. Reheat gently in a skillet or microwave, stirring occasionally until heated through.
How should I reheat Tortellini Carbonara when ready to serve?
Reheat and combine the pasta and sauce when ready to serve. You can reheat gently in a skillet on medium-low heat.
Can I reheat this pasta in the microwave?
Yes, for quick reheating, use the microwave in 30-second increments, but be careful not to overcook.
Tortellini Carbonara
Ingredients
- 1 pound tortellini
- 5 bacon slices (diced)
- 3 garlic cloves (minced)
- 2 whole eggs
- 2 egg yolks
- ½ cup grated parmesan cheese
- Salt and black pepper (to taste)
- Fresh parsley (chopped optional)
DIRECTIONS
- Bring a large pot of water with salt to a boil. Add the tortellini to the boiling water and cook according to the package directions until al dente. Drain the pasta and set it aside.
- In a large skillet, cook bacon over medium heat until it becomes crispy. Be sure to drain any extra bacon grease using a ladle or paper towels. Add the minced garlic and cook until it becomes fragrant.
- In a small bowl, whisk together the raw eggs, egg yolks, parmesan cheese, and heavy cream until the egg mixture is well combined.
- Add the cooked tortellini to the skillet with the cooked bacon and garlic, and toss all the ingredients to combine.
- Remove the skillet from heat, wait about 10 seconds, then add the cream mixture. Stir the ingredients constantly to coat the tortellini. The residual heat of the pasta and bacon will cook the eggs and create a creamy sauce.
- Season with salt and black pepper to taste. Garnish your cheese tortellini with chopped fresh parsley, if desired.
- Serve your delicious hot pasta immediately, and enjoy!
Notes
- Using a high-quality cheese rather than any processed grated cheese in the shaker container for this recipe will give you the best results.
- Before draining the pasta, reserve some of the pasta water in a separate container. This water can be used to thin out the sauce if it becomes too thick.
- This pasta must be served hot and immediately after preparing it. It does not keep or reheat well.
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