With the holidays comes a lot of food. And while we tend to overeat on the holiday, we're usually left with a lot of food afterwards. I love recipes that can use up some of those leftovers, like this recipe for Cheesy Ham and Peas Tortellini. While this recipe is best made around the holidays, it can be made anytime of year as ham is easily found at all times. If you want a creamy, cheesy, tortellini recipe, scroll down!
I love repurposing leftovers. Some of my other favorites include Ham Mac and Cheese, Creamy Ham Tetrazzini, Cheesy Ham and Peas Tortellini, and Ham and Peas Penne Pasta.
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How to use up leftover ham
Ham and Peas Tortellini can use up a good amount of your leftover ham. Ham on the bone will be easiest to use. Removed meat from the bone, then cube into small ½ inch cubes. If using spiral cut ham, cut ham off the bone, then slice into strips. Either variety can be used in this recipe, however for either cut omit and dried or hardened portions of the hame from this recipe.
What to use if not using leftovers
If you are making this at a time of year where you don't have leftovers on hand, substitute the leftover ham with a ham steak. Ham steaks can be found at most grocery stores and are fairly inexpensive. Heat ham steak on both sides until warmed though in a large pan. Let cool slightly, then cut into cubes.
What type of tortellini to use in Ham and Pea Tortellini
This recipe calls for cheese tortellini however you can use whichever variety of tortellini that you have on hand. I lean more towards using cheese based tortellini and would not recommend using meat or artisanal flavors so that the taste does not conflict with the ham. For this recipe I used dried tortellini, however you could use fresh or frozen tortellini as well so long as you cook tortellini per package instructions.
What to use instead of ham
Sometimes you just don't have ham on hand but you can substitute it for another add in:
- Chicken
- Turkey
- Beef
- Tuna
- Spinach
Ingredients Needed
- 1 Tbsp Butter
- 1 Cup Onion Diced
- 1 ½ Cups Ham Cubed
- 1 Cup Chicken Stock
- 9 Oz Cheese Tortellini
- ¾ Cup Frozen Peas
- ¼ Cup Heavy Cream
- 1 Cup Shredded Cheddar Cheese
- Pepper To taste
- Salt To taste
Equipment Needed
- Saucepan
- Colander
- Wooden Spoon
- Saute Pan
Storage Tips
Fridge: Place Tortellini in an airtight container and serve in the fridge for up to 4 days. If using leftover ham, store for up to 2 days. To reheat, place in the microwave and cook until warmed through. Tortellini can be reheated on the stovetop by placing in a saucepan and heating on low until warmed through.
Freezer. Place tortellini in an airtight container and leave in freezer for up to 2 months. To reheat defrost in the microwave until warmed through.
Ham and Peas Tortellini
Equipment
Ingredients
- 1 Tbsp Butter
- 1 Cup Onion Diced
- 1 ½ Cups Ham Cubed
- 1 Cup Chicken Stock
- 9 Oz Cheese Tortellini
- ¾ Cup Frozen Peas
- ¼ Cup Heavy Cream
- 1 Cup Shredded Cheddar Cheese
- Pepper To taste
- Salt To taste
Instructions
- Cook tortellini per package instructions. Drain and set aside.
- Melt butter in a large pan on medium heat. Add onion and cook until softened. Add ham and cook until heated through.
- Add chicken stock, heavy cream and tortellini. Bring to a simmer, then stir in cheese.
- Add peas and stir to fully incorporate. Season to taste with salt and pepper. Cook until sauce has thickened, 3-5 minutes. Serve warm and enjoy!
Notes
Nutrition
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About Michelle
Hello! I'm Michelle Boulé. I'm a photography nerd, cat mom and all around foodie. Join me in making some of my favorite comfort foods!
Jenn says
I'm always on the hunt for easy ways to jazz up tortellini and this recipe is right up my alley!
Michelle says
I love this! The cheddar instead of swiss is a yummy idea!
Kay says
I love how creamy and gooey the cheese sauce is, enjoying all your comfort dishes, keep them coming 🙂
Mahy says
I think I could make this tortellini over and over again. They have the perfect creaminess that I love and use my favorite ingredients, too!
Biana says
Looks so delicious and cheesy, this is perfect comfort food! Will be making it very soon.