As much as my family and I have our long list of favorite pastas, we are always looking to try to new recipes. I came across this recipe on Pinterest some time ago and bookmarked it. This tortellini al forno is easy to make, comes together quickly, and presents itself by looks and flavor like a five star dish. Make it and I will wish you luck on leaving leftovers of this filling yet delectable meal! Enjoy!
Tortellini Al Forno
Ingredients
- 20 oz. refrigerated Tortellini, (I like “Giovanni Rana” brand, and I prefer cheese stuffed!)
- 6 slices bacon, uncooked
- 2 teaspoons garlic, minced
- 2 Tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 1 pint half and half, (equivalent to 2 cups), you can sub whole milk.
- Salt/pepper, to taste
- ½ teaspoon dried Italian seasoning
- ¼ cup Parmesan, shredded
- ¼ Asiago cheese, shredded (can also use more Parmesan instead)
- ½ cup mozzarella cheese, shredded
- ¾ cup spinach, finely shredded (optional)
Prepare
- First, use kitchen shears to cut the bacon into 2-3 inch pieces so that they equally cover the pan and cook evenly.
- In a large skillet, cook the bacon slowly on low heat. *Low and slow is best for bacon*.
- Once the bacon is nearly cooked and crisp on each side, cook the tortellini in a large pot according to package instructions. Set aside.
- Remove the cooked bacon from the pan, set aside to cool, and leave 2 Tablespoons of bacon grease in the pan. Keep the heat on low and add the garlic to the pan, cooking for about one minute.
- Increase the heat to medium. Gradually whisk in the flour, stirring constantly, until all flour is incorporated and the grease has thickened.
- Gradually add the half and half (keep stirring). Bring the mixture to a boil and add the salt/pepper and Italian seasoning. Reduce the heat back to low and stir for about 2 more minutes.
- Add the Parmesan, Asiago, and mozzarella cheeses. Stir until well incorporated and thick. Toss in the spinach and the Tortellini and use a rubber spatula to carefully incorporate it into the sauce.
- Once the spinach has wilted (about 1 minute), turn off the heat. Crumble the cooled bacon into smaller pieces and sprinkle over the Tortellini. Serve and enjoy!
