Tortellini Carbonara With Ham
Creamy tortellini with ham and Parmesan offers comforting flavors, perfect for a quick weeknight meal or a satisfying family dinner.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Place 3 quarts of water in a 4 1/2-quart soup pot or Dutch oven.
- Cover, place over high heat, and bring the water to a boil.
- Add tortellini and cook according to the package instructions (5 to 6 minutes).
- When pasta is done, drain well and set aside.
- In a large skillet, heat 1 teaspoon of olive oil over medium heat.
- Add 1 1/2 cups of chopped cooked ham and cook until heated through.
- Pour in 1 1/2 cups of half and half and bring to a gentle simmer.
- Stir in 1/2 cup of grated Parmesan cheese until melted and well combined.
- Add cooked tortellini to the skillet and toss to coat evenly.
- Serve immediately garnished with extra Parmesan if desired.
Tips & Substitutions
For added flavor, consider sautéing some minced garlic in the olive oil before adding the ham. If you don't have half and half, a mix of milk and cream can be used. You can also swap the ham for cooked bacon or pancetta for a different taste. Adjust the Parmesan to your liking, or try using Pecorino Romano for a sharper flavor.
Serving Suggestions
This dish is best served immediately for optimal texture. Complement your meal with a side of Garlic Bread Twists for a delightful crunch. A light salad with a zesty Italian dressing or Brushetta can also enhance your dining experience. For dessert, consider pairing it with Aunt Goldie'S Biscotti for a sweet finish.
Storage & Reheating
To store leftovers, place the tortellini carbonara in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to three days. When reheating, add a splash of milk or cream to loosen the sauce and warm it gently on the stovetop over low heat to prevent the sauce from separating.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Tortellini Carbonara With Ham contains roughly 819 calories, with 18g protein, 113g carbohydrates, and 38g fat. It is an excellent source of dietary fiber (45% of the Daily Value), iron (42% of the Daily Value), and calcium (42% of the Daily Value). It also contributes 13g of dietary fiber toward your daily target.
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use frozen tortellini instead of refrigerated?
Yes, you can use frozen tortellini. Just increase the cooking time according to the package instructions, typically around 8 to 10 minutes. Make sure to check for doneness before draining.
How can I make this recipe vegetarian?
To make a vegetarian version, replace the ham with sautéed mushrooms or roasted vegetables. You can also add spinach for extra nutrition and flavor. Adjust the cooking time as needed based on your vegetable choice.
What can I do if the sauce is too thick?
If your sauce turns out too thick, simply add a little more half and half or some reserved pasta water to achieve your desired consistency. Stir it in gradually while heating to ensure a smooth texture.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).