Cheese Tortellini with Ham and Peas

Cheese tortellini with ham and peas is the type of meal that my kids fall off their chairs over. I can’t say that they quite have that same reaction when I’m serving up roasted veggies and grilled chicken. To keep everyone happy, I need to throw them a bone once in a while too, right?! This quick and easy dinner is a favorite in Courtney’s house as well.

I mean, really….who doesn’t love cheese tortellini? And when you mix it up with the smoky flavors of ham and a little bit of cream,it’s pretty much irresistible. Add in some frozen peas and you have a one-dish meal, which is the same as winning the dinner lottery.

This dinner might be one of our easiest dinners to date. Minus the time it takes to boil the water, this dinner can literally be on your table in 5 minutes. Sound easy enough? We like to buy the fresh tortellini, you can find it in the refrigerated section in the grocery store, usually by the cheeses.

While the tortellini is boiling away, you have 5 minutes to make your sauce. This simply consists of melting 1 Tbsp of butter, sautéing the ham to bring out the flavors and then adding in the cream and peas and bringing everything to a very low simmer for a few minutes. Drain the tortellini, toss in the sauce and top with a sprinkle of cheese. You can do this, weeknight dinner made easy!!!

What to Eat with this Cheese Tortellini with Ham and Peas?

Cheese Tortellini with Ham and Peas is so creamy, I love it with tomato soup, I really not remember why I love it with this soup, maybe the tangy tomato flavors mix so great with the cheesy, creamy flavors of the pasta, You can also try serving it with some garlic bread or dinner rolls. A simple green salad with Italian dressing adds a fresh, crunchy contrast.

You can also enjoy it alongside grilled chicken as a side of it in your dinner, and don’t forget some nice drinks like a regular lemonade.

Ingredients

• 20 oz package fresh cheese tortellini (refrigerated section)
• 1 tablespoon butter
• 1 cup chopped ham
• 1 cup frozen peas
• ½ cup cream
• ⅓ cup quattro formaggio cheese or parmesan cheese
• Ground pepper

How to Make Cheese Tortellini with Ham and Peas?

Step 1:

Bring salted water to a boil in a large pot. Add fresh tortellini and boil for approx 5 minutes or according to package directions.

Step 2:

While tortellini is boiling heat a large skillet over medium heat. Melt butter and add chopped ham, cook for 3 minutes. Add cream and frozen peas, bring to a low simmer – do not boil.

Step 3:

Drain pasta. Mix tortellini with the cream, peas and ham. Sprinkle with cheese and top with fresh cracked pepper. Serve immediately.

Kitchen Equipment Needed

• Large pot
• Large skillet
• Spoon or spatula
• Measuring cups
• Knife
• Cutting board
• Colander

How to Store Leftovers,

If you have leftovers, let the tortellini cool down first. Then, put them in an airtight container and store them in the fridge. They will stay good for about 2 days.

FAQ

What kind of tortellini should I use?

I always use fresh cheese tortellini from the refrigerated section.

Can I use canned peas instead of frozen?

Yes, but drain them well first.

What kind of ham is best?

Any cooked ham works, diced ham steaks are great.

Can I make this recipe without ham?

Of course.

Can I freeze Cheese Tortellini with Ham and Peas?

It’s better fresh, but you can freeze it.

What can I use instead of cream?

You can use half-and-half as I did sometimes.

How do I make it spicier?

Add some red pepper flakes if you want.

Can I add more veggies?

Sure, Broccoli, spinach, or even little pieces of carrots

Cheese Tortellini with Ham and Peas is an easy meal that’s perfect for family dinners, Don’t forget to sprinkle a little extra cheese if you love it cheesy, If you enjoyed this recipe, please share it with your friends and family, and don’t forget to subscribe to my blog for more delicious recipes.