30-Minute Creamy Tortellini Carbonara Recipe



Creamy Tortellini Carbonara is a rich and comforting pasta dish that puts a delicious twist on the classic Italian carbonara. Cheese-filled tortellini are coated in a silky sauce made from eggs and Parmesan, combined with crispy pancetta or bacon and plenty of black pepper. Ready in just 30 minutes, this recipe is perfect for an easy yet indulgent weeknight meal.



 Time & Yield

  • Prep Time: 10 minutes

  • Cook Time: 20 minutes

  • Total Time: 30 minutes

  • Servings: 4 servings



 Ingredients

  • Cheese-filled tortellini (fresh or refrigerated)

  • 2 large eggs

  • 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese (plus extra for garnish)

  • 6 oz pancetta or bacon, diced

  • 2 cloves garlic, minced (optional)

  • Salt, to taste

  • Freshly ground black pepper, to taste

  • Fresh parsley, chopped (optional garnish)

  • Reserved pasta cooking water (as needed)



 Instructions

  1. Cook the Tortellini
    Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the tortellini according to package directions until al dente. Reserve some pasta water, then drain.

  2. Prepare the Sauce Base
    In a bowl, whisk together the eggs and grated Parmesan until smooth and creamy.

  3. Cook the Meat
    In a large skillet, cook the pancetta or bacon over medium heat until crispy. Add garlic during the last minute if using. Remove the skillet from heat.

  4. Combine Everything
    Add the drained tortellini to the skillet with the pancetta. Quickly pour in the egg and cheese mixture, stirring constantly so the heat of the pasta creates a creamy sauce without scrambling the eggs. Add a little reserved pasta water if needed to loosen the sauce.

  5. Season & Serve
    Season generously with black pepper and salt if needed. Garnish with extra Parmesan and parsley. Serve immediately.



 Tips & Variations

  • Remove the pan from heat before adding eggs to prevent curdling

  • Use freshly grated Parmesan for best texture

  • Add peas, mushrooms, or spinach for extra flavor

  • For extra richness, mix in a small knob of butter at the end

 Storage & Reheating

  • Refrigerator: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days

  • Reheat: Gently reheat on the stovetop with a splash of water or milk to loosen the sauce

 Approximate Nutrition (per serving)

  • Calories: ~600–650 kcal

  • Protein: ~28 g

  • Carbohydrates: ~45 g

  • Fat: ~35 g



Conclusion

This Creamy Tortellini Carbonara is a quick, satisfying pasta dish that delivers rich flavor with minimal effort. The combination of cheesy tortellini, crispy pancetta, and a silky egg-Parmesan sauce makes it a perfect comfort meal that feels both simple and elegant—ideal for busy nights or casual entertaining.

Comments