Ham and Cheese Tortellini
User Reviews
5
Ham and Cheese Tortellini
Description
The Ham and Cheese Tortellini recipe features cheese tortellini cooked gently in chicken broth with diced ham, sautéed onions, and garlic for a foundation of savory flavor. Baby peas and heavy cream are stirred in at the end to add sweetness and richness. Half the cheese is melted into the filling, while the remaining pepper jack cheese is broiled on top to form a bubbly, slightly browned crust. The butter and sautéed onion base lend a mild sweetness that balances the savory ham and mildly spicy pepper jack cheese.
This dish cooks entirely in an oven-proof skillet, simmering the tortellini tender in flavorful broth. The broiler finish crisps the cheese topping without drying out the pasta underneath. The combination of soft pasta filled with creamy cheese and the slightly crisp cheese topping creates contrasting textures in every bite. The peas add a pop of color and a hint of sweetness along with the savory meat and cheese.
It works well as a standalone pasta dinner or paired with a crisp green salad for a complete meal. Watch the broiler carefully to avoid burning the cheese as it melts and browns on top.
The recipe allows for frozen tortellini to be used without thawing first, which can save time. Adjust seasoning to taste during the simmering phase, and serve immediately for the best texture and flavor.
Ingredients
- 1 Tablespoon butter
- 1/2 cup yellow onion diced
- 2 cloves garlic minced
- 8 ounces ham diced, deli
- 2 cups chicken broth
- salt to taste
- black pepper to taste
- 2 bags (9 ounces, each) cheese tortellini see note, refrigerated
- 1/2 cup baby peas frozen
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1 ½ cups pepper jack cheese divided, or mozzarella cheese, shredded
Instructions
- Melt butter in a large oven-proof skillet over medium heat. Add diced onion and cook until onion is translucent. Add garlic and stir for 30 seconds. Add ham. Cook and stir about 5 minutes.
- Add chicken broth and tortellini. Season with salt and pepper. Stir to combine and let mixture come to a boil. Cover with lid, then reduce heat to low. Simmer 10 minutes or until tortellini is tender. Remove lid; stir in peas and cream. Remove from heat. Stir in 1/2 cup of the cheese.
- Sprinkle remaining cheese evenly over the top. Place under broiler in oven until cheese is melted. (Watch closely the entire time so you don't burn it!) Serve and enjoy!
Notes
- Frozen tortellini may be used directly without thawing prior to cooking.
- During broiling, keep a close eye to prevent the cheese from burning.
- Adjust salt and pepper to individual taste when simmering the tortellini.
User Reviews
Overall Rating
5
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