Why You’ll Love This Recipe

I love this dish because it combines the richness of creamy sauce with the delightful bite of tortellini. Ham adds a savory depth of flavor that complements creaminess, making each bite irresistible. It’s simple, fast, and incredibly flavorful, which makes it ideal for those nights when I crave something indulgent but don’t want to spend too much time in the kitchen. Plus, it’s so versatile, allowing me to tweak it with different ingredients if I want!

Ingredients

500g Tortellini (cheese-filled or your favorite variety)
150g Schinken (ham), diced
200ml Sahne (cream)
1 small Zwiebel (onion), finely chopped
1 EL Butter (butter)
1-2 Knoblauchzehen (garlic cloves), minced
100ml Brühe (broth)
1 TL Senf (mustard)
Salz und Pfeffer (salt and pepper) to taste
Frische Petersilie (fresh parsley), chopped (optional)

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

I begin by cooking tortellini in a large pot of boiling salted water, following package instructions until they are al dente.
While tortellini cooks, I heat a large pan over medium heat and melt butter. I add diced onion and sauté until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
Next, I add minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds until fragrant.
I stir in diced ham and cook for a few minutes until it starts to brown slightly.
Now, I add cream and broth to the pan, stirring to combine. I let it simmer for 5-7 minutes, allowing sauce to thicken slightly.
To add a bit of tang and extra flavor, I stir in a teaspoon of mustard and season with salt and pepper to taste.
Once tortellini is done, I drain it and add it to the pan with sauce. I gently toss everything together to coat pasta in creamy sauce.
For a finishing touch, I sprinkle some fresh parsley on top if I want an added burst of color and freshness.

Servings and Timing

Servings: 4
Prep time: 10 minutes
Cook time: 15 minutes
Total time: 25 minutes

Variations

Vegetarian Version: I can swap ham for mushrooms or spinach for a lighter, vegetarian version.
Chicken Option: For a heartier meal, I sometimes substitute ham with diced chicken breast.
Cheese Tortellini: While recipe uses cheese-filled tortellini, I could also opt for other types like meat-filled or spinach tortellini to change the flavor profile.

Storage/Reheating

Storage: Leftover tortellini alla panna can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
Reheating: To reheat, I place it in a pan over low heat, adding a splash of cream or broth to help bring sauce back to its creamy consistency. I can also microwave it, stirring occasionally to ensure even heating.

FAQs

How do I know when tortellini is done cooking?

I cook tortellini according to package instructions. Usually, fresh tortellini cooks in about 3-4 minutes, while dried ones might take longer, typically around 7-8 minutes. I taste one to make sure it’s al dente – tender but still firm to the bite.

Can I use frozen tortellini for this recipe?

Yes! I often use frozen tortellini, and it works just as well. I simply cook it according to package instructions. No need to thaw it first!

Can I make sauce ahead of time?

Yes, I sometimes prepare sauce ahead of time. I make it in the morning and refrigerate it until I’m ready to cook tortellini. I then just reheat sauce and toss it with freshly cooked pasta.

Is there a dairy-free version of this dish?

Yes, for a dairy-free version, I can use coconut milk or a plant-based cream alternative. I would also choose dairy-free tortellini, or make my own.

How can I add more vegetables to this recipe?

To make it more veggie-friendly, I add spinach, peas, or roasted bell peppers. Adding sautéed mushrooms or zucchini also enhances flavor and makes dish more nutritious.

Conclusion

Tortellini alla Panna with Schinken Sahne Soße is one of my go-to comfort food recipes. It’s incredibly quick, easy to make, and packed with delicious creamy flavors that everyone will love. Whether I’m in the mood for something indulgent or need a meal that’s both simple and satisfying, this dish never disappoints!