Pin it
This cheesy tortellini pepperoni pizza casserole combines two family favorites into one irresistible dish. The magic happens when tender cheese tortellini meets zesty pizza sauce and pepperoni, all baked under a blanket of melted cheese. It's the ultimate comfort food that satisfies both pasta and pizza cravings simultaneously.
I first created this recipe when my children couldn't decide between pizza and pasta for dinner. The compromise became our most requested weeknight meal, appearing on our table at least twice a month during busy school seasons.
Ingredients
- Cheese tortellini: fresh delivers the best texture but frozen works perfectly in a pinch
- Pizza sauce: choose a high quality jar for best flavor or use homemade if you have it
- Sliced pepperoni: the star flavor maker that brings authentic pizza taste
- Mozzarella cheese: fresh shredded melts more evenly than pre packaged varieties
- Italian cheese blend: adds complexity and depth to the flavor profile
- Italian seasoning: elevates the dish with classic Mediterranean herbs
- Garlic powder: provides subtle savory notes throughout the casserole
- Red pepper flakes: adds a gentle heat that complements the rich cheese
- Fresh basil or parsley: brightens the finished dish with color and freshness
How To Make Cheese Tortellini Pepperoni Pizza Casserole
- Preheat the oven:
- Set your oven to 375°F and prepare your baking dish by lightly greasing it with cooking spray or olive oil. This temperature allows the cheese to melt perfectly without burning while ensuring the casserole heats through completely.
- Cook the tortellini:
- Bring a large pot of water to a rolling boil and add a generous pinch of salt. Cook the tortellini for exactly one minute less than the package instructions indicate. The pasta will continue cooking in the oven, so keeping it slightly undercooked prevents mushiness in the final dish.
- Mix the components:
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the drained tortellini with pizza sauce, ensuring every piece gets coated. Fold in half the mozzarella and most of the pepperoni, reserving some pieces for the top. The cheese inside the mixture creates pockets of gooey goodness throughout the casserole.
- Layer in baking dish:
- Transfer the mixture to your prepared baking dish, spreading it into an even layer. Sprinkle the remaining mozzarella cheese over the top, followed by the Italian cheese blend if using. Arrange the reserved pepperoni pieces decoratively across the surface for that classic pizza appearance.
- Bake to perfection:
- Place the casserole in the center of your preheated oven and bake for 20 to 25 minutes. Watch for the cheese to bubble around the edges and develop golden brown spots across the top. These caramelized bits of cheese provide delicious texture contrast.
- Rest before serving:
- Allow the casserole to rest for 5 minutes after removing from the oven. This brief resting period helps the sauce thicken slightly and makes serving neater. Sprinkle with fresh herbs just before bringing to the table.
Pin it
The cheese tortellini is truly what makes this dish special. While regular pasta would work, the pockets of cheese inside each tortellini create an extra dimension of flavor. I discovered this happy accident when trying to use up leftover tortellini from another meal, and now I purposely buy tortellini just for this recipe.
Make It Ahead
This casserole works beautifully as a make ahead meal. Prepare everything up to the baking step, cover tightly with foil, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. When ready to serve, remove from the refrigerator 30 minutes before baking to take the chill off, then bake as directed, adding about 5 extra minutes to the cooking time.
Customization Options
Think of this recipe as a blank canvas for your favorite pizza toppings. For a supreme version, add sautéed bell peppers, mushrooms, and black olives to the mix. Meat lovers can incorporate cooked Italian sausage or ground beef. Vegetable enthusiasts might enjoy spinach, diced zucchini, or roasted broccoli folded into the sauce. Just ensure any vegetables are pre cooked to remove excess moisture before adding to the casserole.
Serving Suggestions
This hearty casserole pairs perfectly with a simple green salad dressed with Italian vinaigrette. For a complete meal, serve alongside garlic bread or breadsticks for dipping into any extra sauce. A small side of steamed vegetables adds nutrition and color to the plate. For entertaining, portion into individual ramekins for an impressive presentation that prevents messy serving.
Storage And Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. For best results when reheating, add a splash of water or extra pizza sauce before covering with microwave safe wrap and heating on medium power. This prevents the pasta from drying out. Alternatively, reheat in a 350°F oven covered with foil until heated through, about 15 minutes.
Pin it
Frequently Asked Questions
- → Can I use frozen cheese tortellini?
Yes, frozen tortellini works perfectly. Cook it according to the package instructions before using it in the recipe.
- → What can I substitute for pepperoni?
You can use cooked sausage, diced ham, or even a vegetarian alternative like mushrooms or bell peppers for similar results.
- → Can I add vegetables to this dish?
Absolutely! Sautéed vegetables like mushrooms, spinach, or bell peppers make great additions to add more flavor and nutrients.
- → How do I store leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave until warmed through.
- → What cheese blend works best for the topping?
The Italian cheese blend adds great flavor, but you can use just mozzarella or a mix of cheeses like cheddar and Parmesan for variety.
- → Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes! You can assemble the casserole up to a day in advance, cover tightly, and store it in the fridge. Bake it just before serving.