As the leaves change color and the air turns crisp, there’s nothing quite like the rich, inviting aroma of a warm meal wafting from the kitchen. Recently, I uncovered a delightful recipe that embodies the essence of fall: One-Pan Creamy Tortellini with Butternut Squash, Kale, and Bacon. This dish seamlessly blends the savory crunch of crispy bacon with the subtle sweetness of roasted butternut squash and the vibrant texture of fresh kale. It’s not only delicious but also incredibly easy to whip up—perfect for those busy weeknights when you crave comfort without the fuss.
Imagine gathering around the table, savoring each creamy bite of three-cheese tortellini enveloped in a smooth sauce while sharing laughter and stories with loved ones. With minimal cleanup required and maximum flavor delivered, this is one recipe you’ll want to make again and again. Let’s dive into this cozy heartwarming meal that’s sure to become a favorite!
Why Is One Pan Creamy Tortellini Perfect?
Simplicity at Its Best: This dish requires just one pan, making it an easy choice for weeknight dinners without the hassle of multiple pots and pans.
Comforting Flavor Combination: The blend of creamy tortellini, sweet butternut squash, and crunchy bacon creates a symphony of tastes that will warm your heart and soul.
Versatile Ingredients: Switch out kale for spinach or omit bacon for a delicious vegetarian take, allowing for a customizable meal to cater to everyone’s preferences.
Quick and Efficient: With prep and cooking time totaling around 30 minutes, you can enjoy a gourmet-style meal in no time—perfect for busy schedules!
Crowd-Pleasing Appeal: Whether feeding a family or entertaining friends, this dish is sure to impress, making it ideal for gatherings along with a side of crusty bread.
Storage-Friendly: Leftovers store well in the fridge, so you can relish this indulgent comfort food for days—consider it a warm hug in a bowl!
One Pan Creamy Tortellini Ingredients
For the Dish
- Bacon – Adds savory flavor and a satisfying crunch; substitute with turkey bacon for a lighter option.
- Yellow Onion – Provides aromatic sweetness; shallots can be a delightful alternative if available.
- Butternut Squash – Offers a natural sweetness and creamy texture; opting for pre-cut squash can save you prep time.
- Minced Garlic – Enhances flavor depth; fresh garlic will yield the best taste in your One Pan Creamy Tortellini.
- Low-Sodium Chicken Broth – Supplies moisture and flavor; for a vegetarian dish, vegetable broth works beautifully.
- Fresh Sage and Thyme – These herbs elevate the dish’s taste; a poultry herb blend can be a practical substitute.
- Nutmeg – Adds warmth and a hint of sweetness; a pinch goes a long way to enhance your dish!
- Salt and Pepper – Essential for balancing flavors; adjust to suit your personal taste.
- Half and Half – Infuses creaminess into the recipe; heavy cream can be used for an indulgent touch, while milk offers a lighter choice.
- Three Cheese Tortellini – The star of the show, look for a kind with a quick cook time of 7-10 minutes.
- Kale – Delivers health benefits and texture; feel free to swap in spinach for a milder flavor profile.
- Parmesan Cheese – Adds richness and a tangy finish; Grana Padano is a great substitute if you’re out of Parmesan.
How to Make One Pan Creamy Tortellini
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Cook the Bacon: In a large 12-inch non-stick skillet, heat over medium-high heat. Add chopped bacon and cook until crispy, about 5-7 minutes. Once done, drain excess fat and leave a bit for flavor.
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Sauté the Vegetables: In the same skillet, add yellow onion and sauté for around 3 minutes, until translucent. Then, toss in the butternut squash and minced garlic, cooking for an additional 2 minutes until fragrant.
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Simmer: Pour in the low-sodium chicken broth, add fresh sage, thyme, nutmeg, and season with salt and pepper. Bring to a boil, then cover and reduce to a simmer for 10-12 minutes until the squash is almost tender.
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Add Cream and Tortellini: Stir in half and half, and then add the three cheese tortellini and kale. Cover the skillet and let it simmer for 8 minutes, stirring halfway through, until the tortellini is cooked to perfection.
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Finish and Serve: Remove from heat and mix in Parmesan cheese, along with half of the cooked bacon. Top with the remaining bacon, garnish if desired, and serve this warm, comforting dish to your delighted guests!
Optional: Sprinkle with additional Parmesan cheese for an extra cheesy finish!
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Expert Tips for One Pan Creamy Tortellini
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Flavor Boost: Add a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes for a gentle kick that enhances the overall taste of your One Pan Creamy Tortellini.
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Herb Substitutes: If using dried herbs instead of fresh, remember to use a heaped 1/4 teaspoon of each to maintain the dish’s fragrant flavor.
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Cooking Times: Always check the tortellini package for specific cooking instructions; adjusting simmering time accordingly ensures perfectly cooked pasta every time.
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Prep Shortcut: To save time, use pre-cut butternut squash and kale—this will make your cooking process quicker without sacrificing flavor.
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Texture Check: For a creamier sauce, add a splash of chicken or vegetable broth while reheating leftovers to restore the rich consistency of your One Pan Creamy Tortellini.
Make Ahead Options
These One Pan Creamy Tortellini with Butternut Squash, Kale, and Bacon are perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time! You can chop the butternut squash and cook the bacon up to 24 hours in advance, storing them separately in the refrigerator to maintain their texture and flavor. Additionally, the sauce components, such as sautéed onions and garlic, can be prepared ahead and refrigerated for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to enjoy your meal, simply combine the prepped ingredients in a skillet, add the broth, and let it simmer until everything is heated through. This way, you’ll be savoring a delicious homemade dish with minimal effort on busy weeknights!
What to Serve with One Pan Creamy Tortellini with Butternut Squash, Kale, and Bacon?
To create an unforgettable dining experience, consider these delightful pairings that complement the warmth and richness of your meal.
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Crusty Bread: Perfect for sopping up the creamy sauce, a fresh loaf adds a satisfying texture to each bite.
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Garlic Parmesan Roasted Brussels Sprouts: The natural earthiness of roasted Brussels sprouts with garlic enhances the comfort of your dish.
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Simple Arugula Salad: A light, peppery salad with lemon vinaigrette balances the creamy richness and adds a refreshing crunch.
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Apple Cider: The sweet tartness of this seasonal beverage complements the savory notes in the tortellini beautifully.
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Homemade Pumpkin Spice Muffins: These sweet treats bring a taste of fall that pairs perfectly with the savory components of your dinner.
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Chocolate Chip Cookies: End your meal on a sweet note with warm cookies for a cozy, comforting dessert everybody loves.
Each of these options is designed to enhance your meal experience, bringing out the best in your One Pan Creamy Tortellini!
Storage Tips for One Pan Creamy Tortellini
Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. This will keep the dish fresh while allowing the flavors to meld beautifully.
Freezer: If you want to enjoy this comforting meal later, freeze it in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Make sure to cool it completely before sealing.
Reheating: When ready to enjoy, reheat gently on the stove with a splash of broth, which will help restore the creamy texture of your One Pan Creamy Tortellini.
Serving: Consider enjoying the dish right after reheating for the best taste experience.
One Pan Creamy Tortellini Variations
Feel free to get creative with this dish, as there are endless ways to customize it!
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Sausage Swap: Replace bacon with cooked sausage for a hearty, different protein option that adds robust flavor.
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Sweet Potato: Swap butternut squash for sweet potatoes for a sweeter, earthy taste that pairs beautifully with the creamy sauce.
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Veggie Boost: Toss in bell peppers or zucchini to amp up the nutrition and color, making each bite more delightful and vibrant.
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Plant-Based: Use mushroom or coconut cream instead of half and half, and omit the bacon for a delicious vegan option without sacrificing flavor.
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Cheese Change: Try a different cheese tortellini flavor, like spinach or ricotta, for a unique twist and added nutrients.
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Fresh Herbs: Experiment with fresh basil or oregano in place of sage and thyme. These herbs will impart a delightful freshness to the dish.
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Spice It Up: Add crushed red pepper flakes for an enticing heat that beautifully balances the creaminess—tailored for those who love a kick!
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Nutty Finish: Top with toasted pine nuts or walnuts to add a satisfying crunch and earthy flavor that complements the creamy tortellini beautifully.
One Pan Creamy Tortellini with Butternut Squash, Kale, and Bacon Recipe FAQs
What type of butternut squash should I use?
You can use either whole butternut squash, which you’ll need to peel and cube, or pre-cut butternut squash to save time. If using whole squash, select one that feels heavy for its size and has a smooth skin without dark spots or blemishes.
How long can I store leftovers of this dish?
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Just make sure to cool it completely before sealing. When reheating, add a splash of broth to restore the creamy texture.
Can I freeze One Pan Creamy Tortellini with Butternut Squash, Kale, and Bacon?
Absolutely! You can freeze this dish for up to 2 months. To do this, allow the dish to cool to room temperature, then transfer it to a freezer-safe container. When you’re ready to enjoy it, thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat gently on the stove, adding a bit of broth to help bring back its creamy consistency.
What should I do if the tortellini is overcooked?
If you find that your tortellini has become overcooked and mushy, there’s still hope! You can try adding a bit more broth to the skillet and gently stirring to help restore some of the texture. Alternatively, you can consider using a fresh batch of tortellini to serve on the side for a more appealing texture, making this dish versatile and adaptable!
Is this recipe suitable for vegetarians?
While this recipe features bacon for a savory touch, it’s very easy to tailor it to a vegetarian diet. Simply omit the bacon and replace the chicken broth with vegetable broth. You can enhance the flavor with additional spices or herbs to make it just as tasty!
How can I make this dish spicier?
If you’re looking to add a bit of heat to your One Pan Creamy Tortellini, I recommend incorporating crushed red pepper flakes or freshly chopped chili peppers. Start with a pinch and adjust to taste as it can quickly elevate the flavors to your preference!
One Pan Creamy Tortellini with Butternut Squash Kale and Bacon Bliss
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a large skillet, heat over medium-high heat. Add chopped bacon and cook until crispy, about 5-7 minutes. Drain excess fat, leaving a bit for flavor.
- Add yellow onion and sauté for around 3 minutes, until translucent. Toss in the butternut squash and minced garlic, cooking for an additional 2 minutes until fragrant.
- Pour in the chicken broth, add fresh sage, thyme, nutmeg, and season with salt and pepper. Bring to a boil, then cover and reduce to a simmer for 10-12 minutes until the squash is almost tender.
- Stir in half and half, then add the tortellini and kale. Cover and let it simmer for 8 minutes, stirring halfway through, until the tortellini is cooked to perfection.
- Remove from heat and mix in Parmesan cheese, along with half of the cooked bacon. Top with the remaining bacon and serve while warm.