Tortellini with cream sauce

Tortellini with cream sauce - a refined and comforting recipe, perfect for a family dinner or a special occasion. This dish combines the velvety texture of tortellini with a creamy sauce flavored with ham and Brie cheese, creating a culinary feast that will delight your taste buds.

Total preparation time: 30 minutes
Cooking time: 20 minutes
Number of servings: 4

Ingredients

- 250 g fresh tortellini (preferably filled with ham)
- 1 large tub of cream (approximately 400 g)
- 2 tablespoons of milk
- 100 g raw ham (thinly sliced)
- 1 small onion
- 2-3 tablespoons of olive oil
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- A pinch of nutmeg
- 100 g Brie cheese (cut into pieces)
- Fresh parsley leaves, for garnish

Preparation

1. Boiling the tortellini: In a large pot, add salted water and bring to a boil. When the water is boiling, add the tortellini and let them cook for about 10 minutes, according to the package instructions. These fresh pasta are delicate, and cooking them properly is essential for achieving the perfect texture.

2. Preparing the sauce: While the tortellini are boiling, finely chop the onion and slice the ham. In a large skillet, add the olive oil and heat it over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté for 3-4 minutes until it becomes translucent and changes color. Here, I advise you to be careful with the oil temperature to avoid burning the onion, which could negatively affect the sauce's flavor.

3. Adding the ham: Once the onion is softened, add the slices of ham and continue to sauté for another 3-4 minutes, stirring constantly. This step will release the flavors from the ham, and the sauce will acquire a savory taste.

4. Creating the creamy sauce: In a small bowl, whisk the cream together with the 2 tablespoons of milk. This will help achieve a smoother texture for the sauce. Once the mixture is homogeneous, pour it into the skillet over the ham and onion. Reduce the heat to low and stir constantly. Here it is important to be patient and allow the sauce to thicken slightly.

5. Seasoning the sauce: Add salt, pepper, and a pinch of nutmeg. The nutmeg will add a subtle note of warmth and complexity. Continue to simmer the sauce until it reaches the desired consistency, being careful not to let it boil too hard.

6. Finishing the sauce: Turn off the heat and add the pieces of Brie cheese to the hot sauce, stirring gently until the cheese melts completely. The Brie will add exceptional creaminess and a rich flavor, transforming the sauce into a true delicacy.

7. Combining with tortellini: When the tortellini are ready, drain them well and add them to the skillet, stirring carefully to coat them evenly with the creamy sauce. This step is crucial for ensuring that each piece of pasta is infused with the rich flavors of the sauce.

8. Serving: Plate the tortellini and garnish with fresh parsley leaves. These not only add a pleasing appearance but also a note of freshness. Serve the dish hot to enjoy all its aroma and texture.

Practical tips

- Choosing the tortellini: If you prefer to experiment, you can choose tortellini with different fillings, such as ricotta or spinach. Each variant will bring a distinct note to the dish.
- Brie cheese: If you don't have Brie on hand, an excellent alternative would be goat cheese or mozzarella, which melt easily and add a delicious taste.
- Sauce variations: You can add sautéed mushrooms or vegetables. These will not only enrich the sauce but also add extra nutrients.
- Recommended drinks: This dish pairs excellently with a dry white wine or a prosecco aperitif, which will perfectly complement the rich flavors of the sauce.

Nutritional benefits

Tortellini with cream sauce is a hearty dish that offers carbohydrates from the pasta, protein from the ham and cheese, as well as healthy fats from the cream. It also contains vitamins and minerals from the onion and parsley. A serving has approximately 600-700 calories, depending on the ingredients used, and the intake may vary based on individual portions.

Frequently asked questions

1. Can I use frozen tortellini? Yes, frozen tortellini are a convenient alternative. Boil them according to the package instructions, and the rest of the recipe remains unchanged.

2. How can I make the sauce lighter? You can use light cream or Greek yogurt to reduce the fat content while maintaining a creamy texture.

3. What are the best side dishes to accompany tortellini? A fresh green salad or grilled vegetables are excellent side dishes that will complement this rich dish.

4. How can I store leftovers? Tortellini with cream sauce stores well in the refrigerator for 2-3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a little milk or cream to restore its creaminess.

This tortellini with cream sauce is a recipe that not only delights the taste but also brings a sense of comfort and warmth, perfect for evenings when you want to indulge yourself. Enjoy!