Dinner

Ham and Cheese Tortellini Skillet Recipe

ByThomas Greene November 1, 2025November 1, 2025

Introduction

This Ham Tortellini recipe is a comforting and flavorful dish that comes together quickly on the stovetop. With tender cheese tortellini, savory ham, and a creamy sauce, it makes a satisfying meal perfect for busy weeknights.

This image shows a white plate filled with about three layers of food. The bottom and main layer is yellow tortellini pasta with a smooth, slightly shiny texture. Mixed within the pasta and on top are medium-sized cubes of pink ham, providing a bit of color contrast and texture variation. Scattered over the dish are small bits of green chopped herbs and thin white shreds of cheese, adding freshness and lightness. The plate rests on a white marbled surface, with a fork partially visible in the background. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

2 teaspoons olive oil
1/2 cup onion (finely chopped)
2 cups diced ham (approximately 1 pound)
2 cloves garlic (minced)
1 pound frozen cheese tortellini
1 cup low sodium chicken broth
1 teaspoon crushed red pepper
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
1 cup Monterey Jack cheese (shredded)
1/3 cup heavy cream
Fresh parsley (for garnish)
Shredded Parmesan cheese (for topping)

Instructions

Step 1: In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the diced ham and chopped onions, sautéing for 5-6 minutes until the onions are tender and the ham is lightly browned.
Step 2: Stir in the minced garlic and cook for 1 minute, until fragrant.
Step 3: Add the frozen cheese tortellini, chicken broth, crushed red pepper, salt, and black pepper. Bring to a boil, then cover and reduce heat to a simmer. Cook for 8-10 minutes until the tortellini is fully cooked.
Step 4: Stir in the shredded Monterey Jack cheese and heavy cream. Continue stirring until the cheese melts and the sauce is creamy.
Step 5: Serve immediately, garnished with fresh parsley and shredded Parmesan cheese if desired.

Tips & Variations

For a spicier dish, increase the crushed red pepper or add a pinch of cayenne pepper.
Swap Monterey Jack for mozzarella for a milder cheese flavor.
Add a handful of spinach or kale in step 3 for extra greens and nutrients.
Use whole wheat tortellini to boost fiber content.

Storage

Store leftover ham tortellini in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of chicken broth or cream to loosen the sauce and keep it creamy.

How to Serve

The image shows a close-up of cooked tortellini pasta covered in creamy white sauce with a smooth texture. The tortellini pieces are golden yellow with soft, rounded shapes and delicate folded edges. Small, pale pink cubes of ham are spread evenly throughout, and fresh green parsley leaves are sprinkled on top adding a bright touch. The food is in a black pan resting on a white marbled surface with a white cloth that has black dots underneath. A black spoon lifts a spoonful of the pasta, sauce, ham, and herbs. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use fresh tortellini instead of frozen?

Yes, fresh tortellini works well too. Adjust the cooking time, as fresh tortellini usually cooks faster—typically 3-5 minutes instead of 8-10.

Is there a substitute for heavy cream in this recipe?

You can use half-and-half or whole milk as a lighter alternative, but the sauce will be less rich and creamy. To maintain thickness, consider adding a teaspoon of flour mixed into the milk before stirring it in.