Tortellini Al Forno (with a kick)

5 from 19 votes

Tortellini Al Forno (with a kick)

This tortellini al forno uses a luscious cream sauce with cheese-filled tortellini topped with bacon. The added pepper Jack cheese adds a delightful spicy kick that takes the flavor up a notch.

Prep Time5

Cook Time30

Total Time35

Course: Main Course, pasta, Side Dish

Cuisine: American, Italian

Servings: servings

Calories: 1000kcal

Author: Sally

Ingredients

6-8 slices bacon , lean, cut in 1-inch pieces
2 teaspoon dry basil
2 tablespoon garlic , minced (about 3 garlic cloves)
3 tablespoon lemon juice (juice from 1 large lemon)
2-½ cups chicken stock (or broth)
20 ounces tortellini , cheese filled (refrigerated)
½ cup cream
½ cup parmesan cheese , shredded or grated
½ cup pepper Jack cheese , shredded
4 ounces cream cheese
½ cup baby spinach (packed down)

US Customary - Metric

Instructions

Heat Dutch oven on medium heat (5).
Cook bacon (about 10 minutes or until browned). Remove to drain on paper towels.
Discard all but 2 tablespoons of bacon fat.
With Dutch oven still on medium heat, add basil and garlic. Stir and cook 1-2 minutes, taking care to not scorch.
Add lemon juice and stir. Cook for 1 minute (which reduces the lemon juice liquid a bit).
Add stock/broth and bring to a boil on high heat (watching closely).
Add tortellini, reduce heat to low (2-3), and cook 10 minutes (uncovered).
Turn off heat and add cream, cheeses, and spinach. Stir and let sit uncovered about 5 minutes to thicken.
Crumble bacon over top and serve right away.

Notes

Don't overcook your tortellini. It's a bit fragile due to the pinching together process, so cook it gently. This is a quick dish, so be prepared to stand by and observe so it doesn't overcook.

Bring the broth to a boil before adding the tortellini. You don't want the tortellini to boil too vigorously that it breaks apart during the cooking phase.

The lemon juice is important for flavor. You won't end up with tart lemon flavor - just enhanced flavor - trust me on this! You can also use dry white wine in the same amount - a different flavor, but just as delicious.

Nutrition