Step 1: Cook the Tortellini

Start by boiling a pot of salted water. Once the water is boiling, add the tortellini and cook them according to the package instructions. Fresh tortellini usually takes around 3-5 minutes to cook, while frozen tortellini may take a little longer. The tortellini will float to the surface when they’re done. Drain them and set them aside. Be careful not to overcook the tortellini, as they can become mushy.

Step 2: Cook the Bacon

In a large skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped bacon and cook for about 5-7 minutes, or until the bacon becomes crispy and golden. Stir occasionally to prevent burning. Once the bacon is perfectly crispy, use a slotted spoon to transfer it onto a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess grease.

Step 3: Prepare the Cream Cheese Sauce

In the same skillet where you cooked the bacon, you’ll find some leftover bacon grease. This will add extra flavor to the sauce. Add the minced garlic to the skillet and sauté for about 1 minute, just until the garlic is fragrant. Next, add the softened cream cheese, heavy cream, and grated Parmesan cheese. Stir everything together until the sauce becomes smooth and creamy. Let it simmer for a few minutes to thicken up. If the sauce feels too thick, you can thin it out with a little bit of pasta water or more cream, depending on your preference. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Step 4: Combine the Tortellini and Bacon

Once your sauce is creamy and smooth, add the cooked tortellini to the skillet. Gently toss the tortellini in the sauce, ensuring each piece is well-coated. Sprinkle the crispy bacon over the top and stir gently to combine. If you’ve chosen to include spinach or mushrooms, toss them in at this point. Once everything is combined, garnish with fresh chopped parsley for a burst of color and flavor.