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Coming up with fresh dinner ideas that work for busy weeknights can feel like a real puzzle. Most of us want something that’s both filling and nutritious, but we don’t always have the time or energy to tackle complicated recipes after a long day at work. That’s why I’m excited to share this tortellini with brussels sprouts recipe – it’s the kind of meal that comes together quickly while still feeling like you made something special. The combination of pasta and vegetables gives you the best of both worlds: comfort food that also happens to be good for you.
Possible Ingredient Alternatives
Brussels sprouts can be replaced with broccoli florets or shredded cabbage for a similar texture and nutritional profile. These alternatives offer comparable fiber and vitamin content while providing a milder flavor. Adjust cooking time as needed to ensure proper tenderness. Tortellini can be substituted with ravioli or gnocchi to maintain the pasta element. For a gluten-free option, use gluten-free pasta or cauliflower gnocchi. Heavy cream can be replaced with coconut cream or cashew cream for a dairy-free version. These plant-based alternatives provide a similar richness and can be used in a 1:1 ratio. If using cashew cream, blend soaked cashews with water until smooth for the right consistency.
| Preparation Time | 10-15 minutes |
| Cooking Time | 20-25 minutes |
| Total Time | 30-40 minutes |
| Level of Difficulty | Medium |
Estimated Nutrition
Estimated nutrition for the whole recipe (without optional ingredients):
- Calories: 1500-1700
- Protein: 60-70 g
- Fat: 100-110 g
- Carbohydrates: 90-100 g
Ingredients
- 12 oz brussels sprouts
- 2 cups uncooked tortellini
- 10 slices bacon, cooked and chopped
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup shredded parmesan cheese
- 1/2 cup milk
Step 1: Prepare Brussels Sprouts
Begin by bringing a large pot of water to a boil.
While waiting for the water to boil, cut the stems off the Brussels sprouts and halve each one.
Once the water is boiling, add the halved Brussels sprouts and cook them for 5 minutes.
After boiling, remove them using a slotted spoon and set aside.
Step 2: Cook the Tortellini
In the same pot of boiling water used for the Brussels sprouts, cook the tortellini according to the package instructions.
Once cooked, drain the tortellini thoroughly and set aside.
Step 3: Prepare the Cream Sauce with Brussels Sprouts and Bacon
In a large skillet, combine the cooked Brussels sprouts, half of the chopped cooked bacon, heavy cream, and 1/4 teaspoon of salt.
Bring this mixture to a boil, then continuously stir as you gradually add shredded Parmesan cheese to the boiling cream.
Keep stirring until the cheese melts and coats the Brussels sprouts and bacon.
Reduce the heat to a simmer, and continue to stir to prevent the cheese from sticking to the skillet.
If needed, gradually add milk to thin out the sauce, incorporating it fully.
Step 4: Combine Tortellini and Finish Dish
Add the cooked tortellini and the remaining half of chopped cooked bacon to the skillet with the cream sauce.
Ensure the skillet is on low heat to maintain a gentle simmer.
Stir everything together until the tortellini is well coated in the sauce.
Taste the dish and add more salt if needed.
Serve hot and enjoy your meal!
