Spicy Tortellini

Name: Spicy Tortellini
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 40 min
Yield: 2 servings.
Ingredients: 2 bacon strips, diced; 1/3 cup sliced celery; 1/4 cup chopped onion; 2 garlic cloves, minced; 1 tablespoon cornstarch; 1 can (14-1/2 ounces) beef broth; 1 can (5-1/2 ounces) spicy hot V8 juice; 1 teaspoon chili powder; 1/2 teaspoon sugar; Dash pepper; 1 cup dried cheese tortellini; Shredded Asiago cheese, optional

Spicy V8 juice is the surprise ingredient behind this savory Test Kitchen creation. Tortellini takes a cue from stew and is served up in a sauce that’s brimming with flavor.

Ingredients

2 bacon strips, diced
1/3 cup sliced celery
1/4 cup chopped onion
2 garlic cloves, minced
1 tablespoon cornstarch
1 can (14-1/2 ounces) beef broth
1 can (5-1/2 ounces) spicy hot V8 juice
1 teaspoon chili powder
1/2 teaspoon sugar
Dash pepper
1 cup dried cheese tortellini
Shredded Asiago cheese, optional

Directions

In a small saucepan, cook bacon over medium heat until crisp. Using a slotted spoon, remove to paper towels. In the drippings, saute the celery, onion and garlic until tender.
Combine cornstarch and broth until smooth; stir into celery mixture. Add the V8 juice, chili powder, sugar and pepper. Bring to a boil; cook for 1-2 minutes or until slightly thickened.
Add tortellini. Reduce heat; cover and simmer for 15-20 minutes or until tortellini is tender. Sprinkle with bacon. Garnish with Asiago cheese if desired.