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Creamy One Pan Bacon and Spinach Tortellini served with Parmesan cheese.

One Pan Bacon and Spinach Tortellini

A quick and comforting one-pan dinner featuring creamy cheese tortellini, crispy bacon, and fresh spinach.
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Total Time 25 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Dinner, Main Course
Cuisine: Italian
Calories: 450

Ingredients
  

Main Ingredients
  • 1 package refrigerated cheese tortellini (about 18 to 20 oz)
  • 6 to 8 slices bacon, chopped
  • 2 to 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 3 to 4 cups fresh spinach (or thawed and squeezed frozen spinach) If using frozen, squeeze out excess water.
  • 2 cups chicken broth (or veggie broth)
  • 1 cup half and half (or heavy cream for extra richness)
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese, plus more to finish
  • Salt and black pepper To taste

Method
 

Cooking Steps
  1. Put a deep skillet on medium heat. Add the chopped bacon and cook until it is crisp.
  2. Scoop out the bacon and set it aside, keeping about 1 to 2 tablespoons of the bacon fat in the pan.
  3. Add the minced garlic to the pan and stir for about 30 seconds until fragrant, but not browned.
  4. Pour in the chicken broth and half and half. Bring to a gentle simmer, then add the tortellini. Stir to prevent sticking.
  5. Let the tortellini cook according to package directions, usually about 5 to 7 minutes, stirring occasionally.
  6. Once the tortellini is tender, stir in the spinach. It may seem like too much initially, but it shrinks quickly.
  7. Turn the heat down low and stir in the grated Parmesan. The sauce will thicken as it rests.
  8. Stir most of the cooked bacon back into the dish, then sprinkle some on top for garnish. Taste and adjust seasoning with black pepper and salt.

Notes

Feel free to add extras like shredded rotisserie chicken, cooked sausage, cherry tomatoes, or a squeeze of lemon for added flavor. Serve with a side salad or crispy bread for a complete meal. If using frozen spinach, make sure to thaw and squeeze out excess water to avoid a watery sauce.