Name: Creamy Tortellini Carbonara Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 25 min
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 18 oz Tortellini (cheese-stuffed or preferred filling); 2 large Eggs; 1 cup Parmesan Cheese (grated, plus extra for garnish); 6 oz Pancetta or Bacon (diced); 2 cloves Garlic (minced, optional); To taste Black Pepper (freshly ground); To taste Salt; 2 tbsp Fresh Parsley (chopped, for garnish, optional)

Jump to Recipe

If you’re looking for a pasta dish that’s rich, comforting, and just a touch luxurious for even the busiest weeknight, this Creamy Tortellini Carbonara Recipe is about to become your go-to favorite. Combining the classic flavors of carbonara with pillowy cheese-stuffed tortellini, this dish brings together silky sauce, crispy pancetta or bacon, and plenty of cheesy goodness. It’s quick to make, deeply satisfying, and perfect for sharing with family or friends over a cozy dinner table.

Creamy Tortellini Carbonara Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

This Creamy Tortellini Carbonara Recipe is all about simplicity and big Italian flavors. Each ingredient serves a special purpose, from the savory pork to the luscious sauce, and the entire lineup comes together with almost no fuss. Here’s what you’ll need, plus a few tips to make every element shine:

Tortellini (18 oz, cheese-stuffed or any filling): The heart of the dish, these stuffed pasta pillows soak up every drop of creamy sauce.
Eggs (2 large): Whisked with cheese, they’re the secret to the authentic, silky carbonara sauce—no heavy cream required!
Parmesan Cheese (1 cup, grated plus extra for garnish): Gives the sauce a nutty, salty backbone; grate it fresh for the best melt and flavor.
Pancetta or Bacon (6 oz, diced): Adds a hit of savory crunch and smokiness—use whichever you prefer or have on hand.
Garlic (2 cloves, minced, optional): For a gentle aromatic kick; add it only if you love the way garlic elevates pasta.
Black Pepper (to taste, freshly ground): A must for authentic carbonara; grind generously right before serving.
Salt (to taste): For seasoning both the pasta water and the final dish—taste as you go!
Fresh Parsley (2 tbsp, chopped, optional for garnish): Adds fresh color and a burst of herby brightness on top.

How to Make Creamy Tortellini Carbonara Recipe

Step 1: Cook the Tortellini

Start by bringing a big pot of salted water to a rolling boil—don’t skimp on the salt, because it infuses the pasta. Add your tortellini and cook according to the package until they’re perfectly al dente. Don’t forget to reserve about a quarter cup of pasta water before you drain them; this starchy liquid will help make your sauce extra silky later on.

Step 2: Prepare the Sauce Mixture

While the tortellini bubbles away, whisk together the eggs and grated parmesan in a bowl until completely smooth and combined. This simple step forms the base of your creamy sauce, relying on quality ingredients and a little technique for maximum flavor—no cream needed!

Step 3: Cook the Pancetta or Bacon

Heat a large skillet over medium and cook your diced pancetta or bacon until it’s golden and just the right amount of crispy, which should take about five to seven minutes. If you’re a garlic fan, toss in the minced cloves during the last minute to infuse all that gorgeous fat with a hint of garlicky aroma. When everything is crispy and fragrant, take the skillet off the heat so nothing burns.

Step 4: Combine Pasta and Sauce

Add your freshly drained tortellini straight into the skillet with the pancetta or bacon. Immediately pour the egg and cheese mixture over the top, stirring constantly and briskly. The heat from the tortellini and pan will gently cook the sauce, creating a creamy coating—just keep things moving to avoid scrambling the eggs. Add a splash of reserved pasta water at a time to get your sauce as creamy or loose as you like.

Step 5: Season and Serve

Finish with a generous grinding of black pepper and a pinch of salt if you think it needs more. Pile the Creamy Tortellini Carbonara Recipe high on plates, and don’t forget to shower it with extra parmesan and fresh parsley if you have some. Serve immediately while it’s irresistibly warm and lush!

How to Serve Creamy Tortellini Carbonara Recipe

Garnishes

The perfect garnish for Creamy Tortellini Carbonara Recipe is a flurry of freshly grated parmesan cheese and a sprinkle of chopped parsley, which brings a pop of freshness and color to each serving. If you’re feeling extra fancy, a crack of black pepper over the top adds just the right amount of bite.

Side Dishes

Pair this rich pasta with something bright and crisp to balance the meal. A simple arugula salad with lemon vinaigrette or steamed green vegetables like asparagus or peas will cut through the richness beautifully. Warm, crusty bread also makes a fantastic companion, perfect for mopping up every last bit of sauce.

Creative Ways to Present

For a fun twist, try serving individual portions in small pasta bowls or even mini cast iron pans straight from the oven (just heat them gently to serve, never bake the pasta in them). Garnish each bowl with a parmesan crisp or a scatter of toasted pine nuts for added flair and crunch—ideal for a special dinner party or a cozy date night at home.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you find yourself with a little extra Creamy Tortellini Carbonara Recipe, just pop it in an airtight container in the fridge. It’ll keep well for up to three days. For best results, spoon it in while it’s still warm, to help keep the sauce from separating as it cools.

Freezing

Although this dish is at its very best fresh, you can freeze leftovers if needed. Place cooled portions in freezer-safe bags or containers and freeze for up to a month. Keep in mind the sauce might separate a bit upon thawing, but a stir and a gentle reheat will help bring it back together.

Reheating

When you’re ready to enjoy your pasta again, reheat it gently in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of milk or reserved pasta water to loosen the sauce. Stir frequently and avoid high heat to prevent the eggs from scrambling. In a pinch, you can microwave it in short bursts, stirring each time, but stovetop is always the best bet.

FAQs

Can I use a different kind of filled pasta?

Absolutely! While cheese-stuffed tortellini is classic for this Creamy Tortellini Carbonara Recipe, feel free to swap in spinach & ricotta, mushroom, or any other favorite filling you love.

Is it safe to eat the eggs in the sauce if they’re not fully cooked?

Yes—as long as you combine the eggs with the hot pasta and pan off the heat, their residual warmth will cook the eggs just enough to create a creamy, dreamy sauce without scrambling or leaving them raw.

Can I make the Creamy Tortellini Carbonara Recipe with only bacon or only pancetta?

Definitely! Both pancetta and bacon bring their own unique flavor. Use whichever you have on hand, or even mix both for extra depth—just make sure it gets browned and crispy for the best texture.

What can I use instead of parmesan cheese?

Pecorino Romano is a traditional, sharp alternative for carbonara, or you can even experiment with Grana Padano. Each brings its own twist on flavor, but all will melt into a gorgeous sauce.

Can I make Creamy Tortellini Carbonara Recipe vegetarian?

You sure can! Skip the pancetta or bacon and amp up the umami by adding sautéed mushrooms or sun-dried tomatoes to the mix. It won’t be traditional carbonara, but it will absolutely be delicious.

Final Thoughts

There’s just something magical about a simple, comforting pasta dish, and this Creamy Tortellini Carbonara Recipe brings together everything you love in one pan—creamy, cheesy, and satisfyingly savory. Don’t be surprised if it ends up in your regular dinner rotation! Treat yourself and your loved ones, and give this recipe a try—you’ll be glad you did.

Creamy Tortellini Carbonara Recipe

★★★★★

5.3 from 10 reviews

Author: lina
Total Time: 25 minutes
Yield: 4 servings 1x
Diet: Vegetarian

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Description

Indulge in a decadent twist on the classic carbonara with this Creamy Tortellini Carbonara recipe. Cheese-stuffed tortellini is enveloped in a rich, creamy sauce with crispy pancetta, Parmesan cheese, and a hint of garlic. This dish is a comforting and satisfying meal that is sure to impress.

Ingredients

Scale

Tortellini:

18 oz Tortellini (cheese-stuffed or preferred filling)

Sauce Mixture:

2 large Eggs
1 cup Parmesan Cheese (grated, plus extra for garnish)

Pancetta or Bacon:

6 oz Pancetta or Bacon (diced)
2 cloves Garlic (minced, optional)

Seasoning:

To taste Black Pepper (freshly ground)
To taste Salt

Garnish:

2 tbsp Fresh Parsley (chopped, for garnish, optional)

Instructions

Cook the Tortellini: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the tortellini and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1/4 cup of pasta water before draining.
Prepare the Sauce Mixture: In a medium bowl, whisk together the eggs and grated Parmesan cheese until smooth and well-combined. Set aside.
Cook the Pancetta or Bacon: In a large skillet, cook the diced pancetta or bacon over medium heat until crispy, about 5-7 minutes. Add the garlic during the last minute of cooking for additional flavor, if desired. Remove the skillet from the heat.
Combine Pasta and Sauce: Add the drained tortellini to the skillet with the pancetta. Pour the egg and cheese mixture over the pasta, stirring constantly to prevent the eggs from curdling. The residual heat will create a creamy sauce. Add reserved pasta water, a tablespoon at a time, until the sauce reaches your desired consistency.
Season and Serve: Season with freshly ground black pepper to taste, and add salt if needed. Garnish with extra Parmesan and fresh parsley if desired. Serve immediately and enjoy!

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Category: Main Dish
Method: Stovetop
Cuisine: Italian