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Cheese Tortellini Pepperoni Pizza Casserole


  • Author: Laura
  • Total Time: 40 minutes

Ingredients

Here’s everything you’ll need to bring this casserole to life:

  • 1 package (9 oz) cheese tortellini (fresh or frozen)

  • 1 jar (24 oz) pizza sauce

  • 1 cup sliced pepperoni

  • 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese

  • 1 cup shredded Italian cheese blend (optional but highly recommended for extra flavor)

  • 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning (optional, enhances the classic pizza flavor)

  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder (optional, adds depth)

  • 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for a spicy kick)

  • 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

  • Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil.

  • Add the tortellini and cook according to the package instructions (typically 3–5 minutes if fresh, longer if frozen).

  • 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

  • In a large bowl, combine:

    • Cooked tortellini

    • Pizza sauce

    • Half of the shredded mozzarella

    • Sliced pepperoni

    • Italian seasoning, garlic powder, and red pepper flakes (if using)

Stir everything together until well mixed and the tortellini are evenly coated.

Step 4: Assemble the Casserole

  • Pour the mixture into your prepared baking dish and spread it out evenly.

  • 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

  • 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

  • Remove the casserole from the oven and let it rest for 5 minutes.

  • Garnish with freshly chopped basil or parsley.

  • 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