Cheese Tortellini Pepperoni Pizza Casserole: A Pizza Lover’s Dream

This Cheese Tortellini Pepperoni Pizza Casserole is a delicious fusion of pizza and pasta, combining cheesy tortellini, savory pepperoni, and rich pizza sauce into a comforting casserole. With melty mozzarella and a sprinkle of Parmesan on top, this casserole is a family favorite that’s perfect for any occasion. It’s an easy and satisfying dish that brings together the best of both worlds—pizza and pasta—in one bite!

The rich combination of cheese tortellini, pizza sauce, mozzarella, and pepperoni makes for a hearty and flavorful casserole. The Italian seasonings add extra depth, and the melted cheese brings it all together for a comforting meal.

Perfect for Pizza Lovers

If you love pizza, you’ll love this casserole. It takes all the familiar pizza flavors and turns them into a cheesy, pasta-filled dish. The pepperoni gives it a classic pizza twist, making it a hit with everyone, especially kids!

This casserole is easy to prepare and requires minimal ingredients, making it perfect for busy nights when you want something delicious without much effort. It’s ready to bake in just 15 minutes, and dinner will be on the table in less than an hour.

Ingredients & Substitutions

• 1 lb (450g) cheese tortellini: Cheese tortellini provides a creamy, cheesy base for the casserole. You can substitute with other types of pasta like penne, rigatoni, or rotini if you prefer.
• 1 1/2 cups pizza sauce: Pizza sauce is the heart of this casserole. You can use marinara sauce or even a homemade pizza sauce for a more personalized flavor.
• 1 1/2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese: Mozzarella adds the perfect melt and gooey texture. You can use any melting cheese, such as provolone or cheddar, if you prefer.
• 1 cup sliced pepperoni: Pepperoni adds a savory flavor and crispy texture. You can use turkey pepperoni or replace it with sausage or even vegetarian pepperoni if desired.
• 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano: Oregano enhances the Italian flavor. You can also use fresh oregano or basil for a more vibrant taste.
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder: Garlic powder adds a savory depth to the sauce. You can use fresh garlic (about 1 clove) if you prefer.
• Salt and pepper to taste: Season the casserole to your liking.
• 2 tablespoons grated Parmesan cheese: Parmesan adds a nice sharpness on top. You can omit it or use a different hard cheese like Pecorino Romano if preferred.

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Preheat the oven: Set your oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
2. Cook the tortellini: Cook the cheese tortellini according to the package directions. Once cooked, drain the pasta and set it aside.
3. Prepare the casserole mixture: In a large bowl, combine the cooked tortellini, pizza sauce, shredded mozzarella cheese, sliced pepperoni, dried oregano, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Stir everything together until the tortellini is evenly coated with the sauce and cheese.
4. Assemble the casserole: Transfer the tortellini mixture into the prepared baking dish and spread it out evenly. If using, sprinkle the grated Parmesan cheese over the top for added flavor.
5. Bake the casserole: Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly and the casserole is golden brown on top.
6. Serve: Remove the casserole from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy!

How to Serve

This casserole is a satisfying meal on its own, but you can serve it with a side of garlic bread, a simple green salad, or steamed vegetables to round out the meal. It also pairs well with a chilled drink, like iced tea or lemonade.

Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, microwave individual portions or bake in the oven at 350°F for about 10-15 minutes until heated through. You can also freeze this casserole for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight and reheat in the oven.

Pro Tips from the Chef

Customize the protein: You can add cooked sausage, chicken, or bacon to the casserole for extra protein.

Use fresh herbs: If you have fresh herbs like basil or oregano, add them for an extra burst of flavor.

Extra cheesy: For a cheesier casserole, add extra mozzarella or a layer of provolone cheese in the middle before baking.

Add vegetables: Sneak in some veggies like bell peppers, mushrooms, or spinach for added nutrition and flavor.

Make it ahead: You can assemble the casserole ahead of time, cover it, and store it in the fridge for up to 24 hours before baking.

Variations

• Vegetarian Version: Omit the pepperoni and add more veggies, like bell peppers, zucchini, or mushrooms, for a veggie-packed casserole.
• Spicy Version: Add some crushed red pepper flakes or spicy sausage for a bit of heat.
• Cheesy Garlic Version: Mix garlic butter into the sauce for a more intense garlic flavor.

FAQs

Can I use regular pasta instead of tortellini?
Yes, you can use any pasta shape, such as penne, rigatoni, or fusilli, if you don’t have tortellini.

Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the casserole ahead of time, cover it, and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours before baking.

Can I freeze this casserole?
Yes, this casserole freezes well. Let it cool completely, then cover it with foil or plastic wrap and freeze for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw it overnight and bake at 350°F for about 20 minutes.

This Cheese Tortellini Pepperoni Pizza Casserole is the ultimate comfort food—cheesy, savory, and full of delicious pizza-inspired flavors. It’s a perfect dinner for busy nights when you want something hearty and easy to make. Whether you’re feeding the family or entertaining guests, this casserole is sure to be a hit!

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