Tortellini Skewers with Pepperoni and Olives

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These tortellini skewers are an easy recipe that's perfect for sharing. Whether you're prepping a quick snack for a weekend playdate, a summer picnic, or a birthday party buffet, these bite-sized snacks are one of the best and easiest appetizers you'll ever make.

Three tortellini skewers on a plate, each with an olive, cheese cube, folded pepperoni, green tortellini, all neatly arranged.

Each skewer has a perfect balance of flavors: creamy cheese, tangy olives, zesty pepperoni, and tender tortellini. They’re served cold, so you can make them ahead and not stress when guests arrive. That’s my kind of recipe!

If you love fun, handheld snacks like these, be sure to check out my Simple Antipasto Skewers—they’re loaded with classic Italian flavors! Or try something a little more refreshing with my Cantaloupe Prosciutto Skewers—a sweet and savory combo that’s perfect for warmer days.

Close-up photo of tortellini skewers on a plate, each featuring an olive, cheese cube, folded pepperoni, and green tortellini, neatly arranged.

Ingredients

Green Olives: Add a tangy pop of flavor to each bite.
Pepperjack Cheese: Creamy with a hint of spice, perfect for a little kick.
Pepperoni Slices: Bring that classic deli-style taste.
Tortellini: Makes each skewer hearty and satisfying.

See recipe card for quantities.

How to Make Tortellini Skewers

Cheese tortellini being added to a saucepan for cooking.

Cook the tortellini following the instructions on the package.

Sliced cheese cut into cubes, with a knife placed beside it on a cutting board.

Slice the cheese into 18 pieces by cutting 3 across and 6 down.

A green olive being threaded onto a skewer as the first ingredient.

Start by adding an olive to your appetizer skewer.

A cheese cube and a green olive skewered together on a skewer, ready to be added to the appetizer.

Add a cube of cheese.

A person holding a slice of pepperoni, folding it lengthwise in preparation for skewering.

Fold one pepperoni in half, then fold another, alternating the folds—one facing forward, the other facing backward.

A skewer with a cube of cheese, folded pepperoni, and a green olive,.

Slide the folded pepperoni onto the skewer.

A single finished tortellini skewer with cheese, folded pepperoni, an olive, and a tortellini, ready to serve.

Add a tortellini to the skewer.

Three tortellini skewers on a plate, each featuring an olive, cheese cube, folded pepperoni, and green tortellini, neatly arranged. The skewers are also displayed on a board before being served

Serve right away or chill in the fridge until ready to enjoy.

Hint: Drizzle a little Italian dressing over the top just before serving for an extra burst of flavor—it gives them that zesty, tangy touch and makes them taste like mini antipasto salads.

Substitutions & Variations

Swap out pepperjack for mozzarella, cheddar, or even gouda—whatever your family loves!
If you don't have pepperoni, try salami, turkey pepperoni, or even prosciutto.
Not a fan of green olives? Use black olives or skip them entirely.
Any stuffed tortellini works—cheese, spinach, or even meat-filled varieties all pair wonderfully.

💭Crucial Success Tips

Cool the tortellini completely before assembling so the cheese doesn't get soft or melty.
Use firm cheese so it holds its shape on the pick.
Alternate folds in the pepperoni for a cute ruffled look that adds texture.
If you're short in time. Buy pre-cooked tortellini from the deli section.

FAQ

Can I make these the night before?

Yes! Just assemble, cover tightly, and store in the fridge. Drizzle with dressing right before serving.

Can I use a different pasta?

Tortellini works best because it’s small and stuffed, but you could try mini ravioli—just make sure they’re firm and not too soft.

How do I stop the cheese from sliding off?

Use a dry cheese and make sure it's cubed firmly—not too small, not too big. A 1-inch cube works well.

What kind of skewers should I use?

Appetizer picks or short wooden skewers work best—about 4 inches long.

Are they good for kids?

Absolutely! Just be mindful of the olives if you’re serving toddlers, and cut any large pieces smaller for safety.

📖 Recipe

18 servings

Tortellini Skewers

Prep Time: 15 minutes

Total Time: 15 minutes

These tortellini skewers are the ultimate bite-sized snack—packed with cheese, savory pepperoni, and a juicy olive, all threaded together with a flavorful green tortellini. Perfect as a cold appetizer or a fun party treat, they're sure to impress with every bite.

Ingredients

18 Green olives
8 oz block Pepperjack cheese
36 Pepperoni slices
18 Tortellini

Instructions

Cook the tortellini following the instructions on the package.
Slice the cheese into 18 pieces by cutting 3 across and 6 down.
Start by adding an olive to your appetizer skewer.
Add a cube of cheese.
Fold one pepperoni in half, then fold another, alternating the folds—one facing forward, the other facing backward.
Slide the folded pepperoni onto the skewer.
Add a tortellini to the skewer.
Serve right away or chill in the fridge until ready to enjoy.

Nutrition Information:

Yield:

Serving Size:

1
Amount Per Serving: Calories: 320Total Fat: 12gSaturated Fat: 6gTrans Fat: 0gUnsaturated Fat: 5gCholesterol: 49mgSodium: 510mgCarbohydrates: 38gFiber: 2gSugar: 1gProtein: 15g

How to Store Tortellini Skewers

Pop the assembled skewers in an airtight container and keep them refrigerated. They’ll stay fresh for up to 2 days. If you're using dressing, add it right before serving so everything stays crisp and fresh.