Cheesy Tortellini with Ham and Peas

Why this recipe is a dinner winner!

For another easy tortellini dinner recipe, try Spinach Alfredo Tortellini or Tortellini Pasta in Pink Sauce.

Ingredients and substitutions

Tortellini - I love using fresh pasta that is widely available in the refrigerated section at the supermarket. Frozen or dried tortellini can also be used. Be sure to follow the cooking instructions on the package.

I prefer cheese tortellini in this recipe. Other varieties can be used, but look for pasta with fillings that won't compete with the other ingredients in this dish.

Ham - This dish is an ideal way to use up leftover ham. Just slice and dice. If you don't have leftover ham, you can purchase a ham steak. Canadian bacon can also be used.

Alternatively, chicken is a great option. Slice up last night's leftovers or add rotisserie chicken. For a meat-free meal, add spinach or broccoli instead.

Cheese - I love Gruyere. It pairs so well with ham and melts beautifully. White cheddar or Parmesan are also delicious options.

Peas - Frozen peas are a great staple to keep in your freezer. They can be added to dishes at the last minute adding ease and convenience.

Shallots provide a mild onion flavor in the sauce. You can also use sweet yellow onion.

Step-by-step instructions

See the recipe card for complete instructions and ingredient amounts.

1. Bring a large pot of water to a boil. Season the water with 1-2 teaspoons of salt. Cook the pasta according to package directions. Drain, reserving ½ cup of the pasta water.
2. Meanwhile, add the butter to a skillet set over medium heat.
3. Add the shallot and cook until soft and translucent, about 5-6 minutes. Season with a pinch or two of pepper. Add the flour and stir to incorporate. Cook for 1-2 minutes to get rid of the raw flour taste.

4. Add the milk, stirring to incorporate. Cook for 2-4 minutes until slightly thickened. Add the cheese and stir until melted. Fold in the tortellini.

5. Add the ham and peas. Stir in pasta water to thin out the sauce as needed. Season to taste with salt and pepper.

Recipe tips

• Cook the pasta in well-salted water. This is the only way to infuse the pasta itself with flavor. For 10 ounces of pasta, add about 2 teaspoons of salt to the boiling water.
• Reserve some pasta water to thin out the cheese sauce as necessary.
• Use freshly grated cheese. It melts better and creates a smoother sauce.
• Wait to season with salt until the end. Both the ham and cheese contain salt, so salting the individual layers will likely lead to an over-salted dish.

What to serve with tortellini

Round out a complete meal with Ciabatta garlic bread and a garden salad or fruit salad.

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