Tortellini Alfredo with Prosciutto and Peas
Tortellini Alfredo with Prosciutto and Peas is a dish that truly tempts the senses. Picture this: steaming, cheese-filled tortellini enveloped in a velvety Alfredo sauce, kissed by the sweetness of fresh peas, and finished with the rich, crispy goodness of prosciutto. The golden charm of freshly grated Parmesan and a sprinkle of vibrant parsley only enhance the inviting presentation. Every bite is a burst of creamy, savory flavor that transports you to a cozy Italian trattoria, no matter where you are.
Table of Contents
I first stumbled upon this magnificent pairing during a family gathering. My aunt, a culinary wizard, served it as an unassuming but exquisite centerpiece. The laughter, chatter, and clinking of forks became a delightful backdrop as we all delighted in the luxurious creaminess, while the crisp of prosciutto brought a perfect balance. Fast forward to today, and I can confidently whip this up even on the busiest weeknights or for entertaining friends. The allure of Tortellini Alfredo with Prosciutto and Peas always ensures it’s a hit!
Why This Is The Best Tortellini Alfredo with Prosciutto and Peas Recipe
This recipe stands out for its effortless elegance. You’ll only need 10 minutes of prep and about 25 minutes of cooking time, so you can have dinner on the table without any fuss. With its creamy Alfredo sauce mingling perfectly with tender tortellini and vibrant peas, the flavor profile is to die for—think rich, savory, and a subtle hint of sweetness. It looks just as incredible as it tastes, making it an impressive dish for any occasion, from casual dinners to festive gatherings. Plus, you can easily adjust ingredients to fit various dietary needs, making it versatile beyond measure.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Prosciutto: This Italian dry-cured ham adds a crispy, savory finish that contrasts beautifully with the creamy sauce. If you can’t find prosciutto, pancetta or bacon can work as substitutes.
Cheese-filled Tortellini (20 ounces): I recommend using refrigerated tortellini for the best texture. Opt for a high-quality brand for more pronounced cheese flavor. If you’re feeling adventurous, you can make your own pasta from scratch!
Extra virgin olive oil (1 teaspoon): This adds depth and richness to the garlic. You can substitute it with unsalted butter if you prefer.
Garlic (2 cloves, minced): Fresh garlic infuses your dish with aromatic flavors. Feel free to adjust the amount based on your garlic love.
Alfredo sauce (15 ounces): While a jarred sauce makes this recipe quick and easy, homemade Alfredo is fantastic if you have the time. It typically involves heavy cream, butter, and more cheese for a richer flavor.
Frozen peas (1 cup): Their bright sweetness pops in every bite, but fresh peas can be used when in season.
Parmesan cheese: Shredded for garnish, the nuttiness complements the dish exceptionally well. You can substitute it with Pecorino Romano for a sharper taste.
Fresh parsley: Finely minced for garnish, it adds a pop of color and freshness. You could also use basil for a different herbal note.
How to Make Tortellini Alfredo with Prosciutto and Peas
Preheat and Prepare
Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F. This temperature is just perfect for getting your prosciutto nice and crispy while you handle the rest of the components. Lay the prosciutto slices on a parchment paper-lined baking sheet, ensuring a little space between each piece. This helps them crisp evenly, giving you that delightful crunchy texture.
Bake the Prosciutto
Place your prosciutto in the preheated oven for about 10 minutes. You’ll know it’s ready when it darkens in color and becomes crispy—this will transform the otherwise tender ham into a wonderfully crispy topping for your dish. Keep a close eye on it; you want it just right, not too burnt!
Cook the Tortellini
While the prosciutto crisps, fill a large pot with salted water and bring it to a hearty boil. Cook the tortellini according to the package instructions, usually about 5-7 minutes until it’s al dente. This texture gives the pasta the right chewiness, perfectly complementing the Alfredo sauce. Once done, drain the tortellini and set it aside while you get the sauce ready.
Sauté the Garlic
In a separate saucepot, add a drizzle of extra virgin olive oil over medium heat. Toss in your minced garlic and cook it for 30-60 seconds, just until it’s fragrant. You want to avoid browning the garlic; it should be gently sautéed to release its aromatic oils without becoming bitter.
Heat the Sauce
Next, stir in your Alfredo sauce, whether you chose store-bought or homemade. Allow it to heat through gently, stirring occasionally to ensure an even temperature. You’ll notice the creamy texture enveloping the garlic, and the aroma will have you dreaming of Italian dinners.
Combine Tortellini and Peas
Once your sauce is warmed, add the cooked tortellini back into the saucepot along with the frozen peas. Stir everything together until the peas are heated through and everything is evenly coated in that rich sauce. This is the moment where all the flavors unify, and you’re just moments away from digging in.
Serve with Elegance
For the grand reveal, serve bowls filled with the tortellini and peas, topped generously with the crispy prosciutto. Don’t forget the finishing touches: a shower of freshly grated Parmesan cheese and minced parsley. This not only adds flavor but elevates the dish visually, making it the perfect centerpiece for your table.
Tips for Success
- Avoid overcooking the tortellini; it should be al dente for the best texture.
- If making homemade Alfredo, don’t skimp on the cheese! Quality ingredients yield better flavor.
- Keep an eye on the prosciutto while it bakes to prevent burning; every oven runs a little differently.
- If using frozen peas, there’s no need to thaw them first; they’ll cook perfectly in the hot pasta.
- Consider adding freshly cracked black pepper for a little heat or a squeeze of lemon juice for brightness.
Serve It With
Pair Tortellini Alfredo with Prosciutto and Peas with a crisp green salad dressed in a light vinaigrette for a refreshing counterbalance to the creaminess of the pasta. A glass of cool, white wine—like Pinot Grigio—would also complement the dish beautifully. For something more casual, crusty garlic bread makes for an excellent side to mop up all that indulgent sauce!
How To Store & Reheat Leftovers
If you find yourself blessed with leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Simply reheat in the microwave for a quick meal or place in a baking dish and warm in the oven at 350°F until heated through. You can freeze the dish for up to 3 months, but keep in mind that cream sauces may not have the same texture once thawed. When reheating from frozen, let them thaw overnight in the fridge first.
Tips & Variations
- For added flavor, try incorporating sautéed mushrooms or spinach into the mix.
- Need it gluten-free? Look for gluten-free tortellini options.
- Swap prosciutto for turkey bacon or omit it for a lighter dish.
- Experiment with different cheeses, like adding a bit of goat cheese for tangy depth.
- For a richer sauce, stir in heavy cream or a splash of white wine while warming the Alfredo.
Recipe FAQs
Can I make this recipe vegetarian?
Absolutely! Just omit the prosciutto and replace it with sautéed vegetables like spinach or mushrooms for extra flavor and texture.
What other proteins can I add?
You can easily add cooked chicken, shrimp, or even crispy pancetta for a different twist on the dish. Simply sauté these in the olive oil before adding the garlic.
Can I use homemade Alfredo sauce?
Definitely! A homemade sauce made with butter, cream, and freshly grated cheese will elevate this dish further, adding layers of flavor that you can’t get from jarred sauces.
How can I make this dish lighter?
Swap the Alfredo sauce with a lighter béchamel or a cauliflower-based sauce. You can also reduce the amount of cheese or use low-fat versions for a healthier spin.
The luxurious experience of Tortellini Alfredo with Prosciutto and Peas embodies comfort food at its finest. It’s an impressive yet simple dish perfect for both weeknight dinners and special occasions alike. Experimenting with this recipe gives you a chance to create your own memories, so gather the family, set the table, and enjoy every bite!
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📖 Recipe Card
Tortellini Alfredo with Prosciutto and Peas
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking and Boiling
- Cuisine: Italian
Description
This Tortellini Alfredo with Prosciutto and Peas is a perfect blend of creamy goodness and savory flavors, making it an ideal choice for a quick and impressive meal.
Ingredients
- Prosciutto
- 20 ounces cheese-filled Tortellini
- 1 teaspoon extra virgin olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 15 ounces Alfredo sauce
- 1 cup frozen peas
- Parmesan cheese, shredded for garnish
- Fresh parsley, finely minced for garnish
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F.
- Arrange prosciutto on a baking sheet and bake for about 10 minutes until crispy.
- Boil salted water and cook tortellini according to package instructions.
- In a pot, heat olive oil and sauté garlic until fragrant.
- Add Alfredo sauce to the garlic and warm it up.
- Combine the cooked tortellini and frozen peas with the Alfredo sauce, stirring well.
- Serve topped with crispy prosciutto, Parmesan cheese, and parsley.
Notes
Avoid overcooking the tortellini; it should be al dente.
For extra flavor, add sautéed mushrooms or spinach.
Consider using gluten-free tortellini if needed.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 550
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 900mg
- Fat: 30g
- Saturated Fat: 15g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 20g
- Cholesterol: 80mg
