Print
clock clock iconcutlery cutlery iconflag flag iconfolder folder iconinstagram instagram iconpinterest pinterest iconfacebook facebook iconprint print iconsquares squares iconheart heart iconheart solid heart solid icon

Easy Tortellini Carbonara – Easy Dinners for Beginner Cooks


5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

No reviews

Description

Discover a fuss‑free way to enjoy a classic Italian favorite by swapping spaghetti for cheese‑filled tortellini. This dish brings together crispy pancetta, silky egg‑Parmesan sauce, and tender pasta pillows for a weeknight dinner that feels delightfully indulgent.


Ingredients

Scale
  • 18 oz cheese‑filled tortellini (any variety you love)
  • 2 large eggs
  • 1 cup freshly grated Parmesan (plus extra for sprinkling)
  • 6 oz diced pancetta or thick‑cut bacon
  • 2 garlic cloves, minced (optional)
  • Salt, to taste
  • Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
  • 2 Tbsp chopped fresh parsley (optional garnish)


Instructions

  1. Boil the Pasta
    • Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil.
    • Cook the tortellini just until al dente (follow the package timing).
    • Before draining, scoop out ¼ cup of the starchy cooking water and set it aside.
  2. Whisk the Creamy Base
    • In a bowl, whisk together the eggs and grated Parmesan until completely smooth.
  3. Crisp the Pork
    • Heat a skillet over medium heat. Add the pancetta or bacon and cook until golden and crunchy, about 5–7 minutes.
    • Stir in the garlic during the last minute, if using, then remove the pan from the heat.
  4. Marry Pasta & Sauce
    • Transfer the drained tortellini to the skillet with the pancetta.
    • Pour the egg‑Parmesan mixture over the hot pasta, tossing constantly to coat without scrambling the eggs.
    • Drizzle in reserved pasta water, one tablespoon at a time, until the sauce becomes luxuriously smooth and coats each tortellini.
  5. Season & Garnish
    • Taste and adjust salt and pepper as needed.
    • Top with extra Parmesan and a sprinkle of parsley for color.
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 20 minutes
  • Category: Dinner

Nutrition

  • Calories: 650 kcal