This Cheese Tortellini Pepperoni Pizza Casserole is the ultimate comfort food that combines the cheesy goodness of tortellini with the bold flavors of pizza. It’s a hearty, family-friendly dish that’s quick to assemble and sure to be a hit at your dinner table.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick & Easy: Simple ingredients and minimal prep time.
- Crowd-Pleaser: Perfect for pizza lovers and pasta enthusiasts alike.
- Customizable: Add your favorite pizza toppings to make it your own.
Ingredients
- 1 package (20 oz) cheese tortellini (fresh or frozen)
- 2 cups marinara or pizza sauce
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 ½ cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 cup sliced pepperoni
- ½ cup diced bell peppers (optional)
- ½ cup sliced black olives (optional)
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh basil or parsley (for garnish)
Instructions
Step 1: Preheat Oven
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
Step 2: Cook Tortellini
Cook the tortellini according to the package instructions. Drain and set aside.
Step 3: Prepare the Sauce
In a medium saucepan, combine the marinara or pizza sauce, heavy cream, Italian seasoning, and garlic powder. Heat over medium heat until warmed through.
Step 4: Combine Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, toss the cooked tortellini with the prepared sauce. Add 1 cup of mozzarella cheese and ¼ cup of Parmesan cheese, stirring gently to coat the pasta evenly.
Step 5: Assemble the Casserole
Pour the tortellini mixture into the prepared baking dish. Top with the remaining mozzarella and Parmesan cheeses. Arrange the pepperoni slices over the top, along with any optional toppings like bell peppers or olives.
Step 6: Bake
Bake in the preheated oven for 20–25 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden.
Step 7: Garnish and Serve
Remove from the oven and let the casserole rest for 5 minutes. Sprinkle with fresh basil or parsley before serving.
Cooking Notes
- Tortellini Options: Use your favorite tortellini filling, such as spinach and ricotta or meat, for a unique twist.
- Make Ahead: Assemble the casserole up to 24 hours in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Bake when ready to serve.
- Leftovers: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave.
Variations
- Vegetarian: Omit the pepperoni and add more vegetables like mushrooms, zucchini, or spinach.
- Spicy Kick: Add crushed red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños for a spicier version.
- Meat Lover’s: Add cooked Italian sausage, ground beef, or bacon for extra protein.
- Low-Carb Option: Replace the tortellini with zucchini noodles or cauliflower florets for a keto-friendly version.
FAQs
Can I use frozen tortellini?
Yes! Just cook the frozen tortellini according to the package instructions before using it in the recipe.
What’s the best cheese for this casserole?
Mozzarella is a classic choice for its meltability, but you can also mix in provolone or cheddar for added flavor.
Can I freeze the casserole?
Absolutely! Assemble the casserole and freeze it (unbaked) for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before baking.
Cheese Tortellini Pepperoni Pizza Casserole is a delightful combination of creamy pasta and zesty pizza flavors. With its cheesy layers, savory pepperoni, and customizable toppings, this dish is guaranteed to satisfy your cravings. Serve it as a weeknight dinner or a comforting weekend meal, and watch as everyone comes back for seconds.
Try this recipe tonight, and make pizza night even more exciting!
