Ingredients
Here’s everything you’ll need to bring this casserole to life:
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1 package (9 oz) cheese tortellini (fresh or frozen)
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1 jar (24 oz) pizza sauce
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1 cup sliced pepperoni
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2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
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1 cup shredded Italian cheese blend (optional but highly recommended for extra flavor)
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1 teaspoon Italian seasoning (optional, enhances the classic pizza flavor)
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1/2 teaspoon garlic powder (optional, adds depth)
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1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for a spicy kick)
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Fresh basil or parsley for garnish (optional, for a pop of color and freshness)
Instructions
Step 1: Preheat Your Oven
Set your oven to 375°F (190°C). While it heats, grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with cooking spray or a bit of olive oil to prevent sticking.
Step 2: Cook the Cheese Tortellini
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Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil.
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Add the tortellini and cook according to the package instructions (typically 3–5 minutes if fresh, longer if frozen).
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Drain the tortellini and set aside to cool slightly while you prepare the sauce mixture.
Pro Tip: Don’t overcook the tortellini—they’ll continue cooking in the oven, and you don’t want them mushy.
Step 3: Mix the Casserole Base
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In a large bowl, combine:
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Cooked tortellini
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Pizza sauce
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Half of the shredded mozzarella
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Sliced pepperoni
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Italian seasoning, garlic powder, and red pepper flakes (if using)
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Stir everything together until well mixed and the tortellini are evenly coated.
Step 4: Assemble the Casserole
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Pour the mixture into your prepared baking dish and spread it out evenly.
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Top with the remaining mozzarella cheese and the Italian cheese blend (if using).
Variation Idea: Layer extra pepperoni or mushrooms on top for an extra pizza-like finish.
Step 5: Bake to Perfection
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Place the casserole in the oven and bake for 20–25 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbling and golden brown.
Step 6: Cool and Serve
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Remove the casserole from the oven and let it rest for 5 minutes.
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Garnish with freshly chopped basil or parsley.
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Serve warm, ideally with garlic bread or a crisp green salad.
Notes
While fresh tortellini cooks quicker, frozen tortellini is equally effective and often more budget-friendly. Just make sure to boil it thoroughly before mixing it into the casserole. Also, resist the urge to over-sauce; this recipe balances moisture and richness, but too much sauce can result in a soupy texture.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
Nutrition
- Calories: 480
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 950mg
- Fat: 26g
- Carbohydrates: 35g
- Protein: 22g