Cheese Tortellini Pepperoni Pizza Casserole
This Cheese Tortellini Pepperoni Pizza Casserole is a delicious fusion of classic pizza flavors and cheesy tortellini pasta. It’s the ultimate comfort food that combines the richness of marinara sauce, melty mozzarella, savory pepperoni, and perfectly cooked cheese tortellini. With its gooey cheese and hearty ingredients, this casserole is sure to satisfy everyone at the table. Whether you’re serving it for dinner or bringing it to a potluck, it’s a guaranteed hit that’s quick, easy, and absolutely delicious.
Ingredients:
- 1 package of cheese tortellini (about 9-12 ounces)
- 1 jar of marinara sauce (about 24 ounces)
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 package of pepperoni slices (about 3-4 ounces)
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with cooking spray or butter.
- Cook the cheese tortellini according to the package instructions, then drain and set aside.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked tortellini, marinara sauce, mozzarella cheese, grated Parmesan, pepperoni slices, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Stir until everything is evenly mixed.
- Pour the mixture into the prepared baking dish, spreading it out evenly.
- Top with additional mozzarella cheese and arrange extra pepperoni slices on top for extra flavor and a crispy texture.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and golden brown on top.
- Remove from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy!
Storage and Reheating Tips:
- Storage: Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
- Freezing: This casserole can be frozen for up to 3 months. Be sure to wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil before freezing.
- Reheating: To reheat, microwave individual portions or place the entire casserole in the oven at 350°F for 15-20 minutes until heated through. If reheating from frozen, bake at 350°F for 40-45 minutes, covering with foil for the first 20 minutes, then removing the foil to allow the top to crisp.
20 FAQs:
- Can I use a different type of pasta instead of tortellini?
- Yes, you can substitute cheese tortellini with other pasta shapes like penne, rotini, or even ravioli.
- Can I use homemade marinara sauce?
- Absolutely! Homemade marinara works great for this dish and will give it an extra burst of flavor.
- Can I make this casserole vegetarian?
- Yes, omit the pepperoni and replace it with more vegetables such as bell peppers, mushrooms, or olives.
- Can I add more cheese?
- Yes, feel free to add extra mozzarella, Parmesan, or even cheddar for more cheesy goodness.
- Can I make this dish ahead of time?
- Yes, assemble it ahead of time, cover it, and refrigerate it for up to a day before baking.
- How can I make this dish spicier?
- Add crushed red pepper flakes or spicy sausage in place of the pepperoni for a spicy kick.
- Can I freeze this casserole?
- Yes, this casserole freezes well! Just make sure it’s fully cooled before wrapping and storing it in the freezer.
- How do I reheat this casserole from frozen?
- Bake at 350°F for 40-45 minutes, covered with foil for the first 20 minutes, and uncovered for the remainder to get the cheese bubbly and golden.
- Can I add extra protein to this casserole?
- Yes, you can add cooked ground beef, Italian sausage, or grilled chicken to make it more filling.
- Can I use a low-fat cheese?
- Yes, you can substitute with low-fat mozzarella or Parmesan if you prefer a lighter version.
- Can I use a different type of pepperoni?
- Yes, turkey pepperoni or even veggie pepperoni are great alternatives.
- How can I make this casserole less greasy?
- Opt for leaner pepperoni or blot the slices with a paper towel before adding them to the casserole.
- Can I make this dairy-free?
- Yes, you can substitute the cheese with dairy-free alternatives and use a dairy-free marinara sauce.
- How can I make this casserole more saucy?
- Add an extra half cup of marinara sauce to make it saucier, or drizzle a little extra sauce on top before baking.
- Is this recipe good for kids?
- Yes, this casserole is perfect for kids as it combines cheesy pasta and pepperoni, two kid-friendly favorites!
- Can I add vegetables to this casserole?
- Yes, feel free to add vegetables like spinach, bell peppers, or onions to the casserole for added flavor and nutrition.
- Can I use gluten-free pasta?
- Yes, gluten-free tortellini or any gluten-free pasta works perfectly in this casserole.
- What if I don’t like pepperoni?
- No problem! You can use other pizza toppings like sausage, bacon, or even cooked chicken instead of pepperoni.
- Can I make this casserole without baking it?
- The casserole is best when baked, but you can also prepare it stovetop if you’re short on time—just heat everything in a skillet and cover with cheese until melted.
- Can I use a smaller baking dish?
- Yes, you can use an 8×8-inch baking dish for a thicker casserole, but adjust the baking time as needed.
20 Best Tips to Make It:
- Pre-cook your tortellini slightly al dente so it doesn’t get too soft while baking.
- Use fresh mozzarella for the best melt—it gives a creamier texture than pre-shredded.
- Season your sauce: Add garlic powder, onion powder, or a pinch of crushed red pepper to the marinara for extra flavor.
- Layer your pepperoni: Instead of just topping with it, mix some into the casserole and place extra on top for a crispy, flavorful layer.
- Sprinkle some Parmesan cheese over the casserole before serving for an extra burst of flavor.
- Cover with foil while baking to keep the casserole moist, then uncover in the last 10 minutes to get a crispy top.
- Use a high-quality marinara sauce for the best taste—avoid overly sweet or watered-down varieties.
- Let the casserole rest for a few minutes after baking so it sets and holds its shape when serving.
- Mix in some cooked onions or bell peppers for added flavor and a touch of sweetness.
- Use pepperoni that’s sliced thinly for better distribution throughout the casserole.
- Try adding some fresh basil or oregano on top after baking for a fresh, aromatic finish.
- Consider adding a drizzle of olive oil on top of the casserole before baking for added richness.
- Increase the amount of pepperoni if you love its flavor; it can be used generously in this casserole.
- To make it extra cheesy, layer the cheeses (mozzarella and Parmesan) between the pasta mixture.
- Make sure to grease your baking dish well to avoid sticking when serving.
- Mix in some ricotta or cream cheese for a creamy texture throughout the casserole.
- If you like a little crunch, top with a handful of crushed croutons or breadcrumbs before baking.
- Use a large enough bowl to mix so that all the ingredients combine evenly.
- Don’t skip the Italian seasoning—it ties the whole dish together with that classic pizza flavor.
- Serve with a side of garlic bread for an extra indulgent meal everyone will love.
This Cheese Tortellini Pepperoni Pizza Casserole is a family-friendly dish that combines the best of both worlds—pizza and pasta—into one easy, comforting bake. It’s cheesy, flavorful, and sure to become a favorite in your meal rotation
