Mouthwatering Cheese Tortellini Pepperoni Pizza Casserole

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This casserole brings together two beloved dishes—pizza and pasta—into one effortless meal. It’s quick to prepare, uses simple ingredients, and is incredibly versatile. Perfect for busy weeknights or casual gatherings, it’s a crowd-pleaser with gooey cheese, pepperoni bites, and flavorful sauce. Plus, it reheats beautifully, making it ideal for leftovers.

Ingredients

(Tip: You'll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• Cheese tortellini (fresh or frozen)

• Pepperoni slices

• Pizza sauce

• Mozzarella cheese, shredded

• Parmesan cheese, grated

• Olive oil

• Italian seasoning

• Garlic powder

• Salt and pepper

Directions

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).

2. Cook the tortellini according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.

3. In a mixing bowl, combine the cooked tortellini with pizza sauce, Italian seasoning, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Stir well to coat.

4. Lightly grease a casserole dish with olive oil. Spread half of the tortellini mixture evenly in the dish.

5. Layer half of the shredded mozzarella and pepperoni slices over the tortellini.

6. Add the remaining tortellini mixture on top, followed by the rest of the mozzarella and pepperoni. Sprinkle with grated Parmesan cheese.

7. Cover the casserole with foil and bake for 20 minutes. Then remove the foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbly.

8. Let it cool slightly before serving.

Servings and Timing

This recipe serves 6 people.
Preparation time: 15 minutes
Cooking time: 35 minutes
Total time: 50 minutes

Variations

• Add sautéed vegetables like bell peppers, mushrooms, or spinach for extra nutrition.

• Use a spicy pizza sauce or add crushed red pepper flakes for heat.

• Swap mozzarella with provolone or a blend of Italian cheeses.

• For a gluten-free option, use gluten-free tortellini.

Storage/Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes or until warmed through. Alternatively, microwave individual portions on medium power, checking every 1-2 minutes.

FAQs

What type of tortellini works best for this recipe?

Fresh or frozen cheese tortellini work best because they cook quickly and hold their shape well in the casserole.

Can I make this casserole ahead of time?

Yes, you can assemble it a day ahead, cover, and refrigerate. Bake it fresh when ready to serve.

Is it possible to freeze this casserole?

Yes, after baking, let it cool completely, then freeze in an airtight container for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight before reheating.

Can I use store-bought pizza sauce?

Absolutely! Store-bought pizza sauce is perfect and convenient for this recipe.

What cheese can I substitute for mozzarella?

Provolone, Monterey Jack, or a blend of Italian cheeses are great alternatives.

How spicy is this casserole?

It’s mild by default but you can add crushed red pepper flakes or spicy pepperoni for more heat.

Can I add vegetables?

Yes, vegetables like mushrooms, bell peppers, or spinach can be sautéed and added for extra flavor and nutrition.

How do I prevent the casserole from getting soggy?

Avoid over-saucing the tortellini and ensure proper baking time to achieve a bubbly but not watery casserole.

Can I use dried tortellini instead of fresh or frozen?

Yes, but you’ll need to cook them longer according to package instructions before assembling the casserole.

Conclusion

This Cheese Tortellini Pepperoni Pizza Casserole is an unbeatable comfort dish that’s both simple and satisfying. It combines the best of two worlds—pizza and pasta—into a cheesy, flavorful bake your family will love. With easy prep, adaptable ingredients, and delicious results, it’s sure to become a favorite in your recipe rotation.

Print