The Ultimate Cheese Tortellini Pepperoni Pizza Casserole
Craving both pizza and pasta? Why not have both—at the same time! This irresistibly cheesy, meaty, and saucy casserole is the perfect marriage of two comfort food classics. It’s family-friendly, weeknight-easy, and guaranteed to become a regular on your dinner table.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Pizza meets pasta — in the best possible way.
- Ready in under 45 minutes, making it a perfect weeknight meal.
- Make-ahead and freezer friendly for busy days.
- Kid-approved and customizable with your favorite toppings.
- Crowd-pleaser that works for potlucks, gatherings, or picky eaters.
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Preheat the Oven
Set your oven to 375°F (190°C) and lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with cooking spray or a bit of olive oil.
2. Cook the Tortellini
Boil the tortellini in salted water according to the package instructions, just until al dente. Drain well and set aside.
3. Mix the Main Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, combine:
- Cooked tortellini
- Pizza sauce
- Half of the shredded mozzarella
- Pepperoni slices
- (Optional) Italian seasoning, garlic powder, and red pepper flakes for added flavor
Stir until everything is evenly coated with sauce and cheese.
4. Assemble the Casserole
Pour the mixture into the prepared baking dish. Sprinkle the remaining mozzarella (and Italian cheese blend, if using) evenly on top. Add extra pepperoni on top for a crispy, golden finish.
5. Bake to Perfection
Place in the preheated oven and bake for 20–25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and slightly golden around the edges.
6. Garnish and Serve
Remove from the oven and let it sit for 5 minutes. Sprinkle chopped basil or parsley for a fresh, colorful touch before serving.
Customization Ideas
Make this recipe your own with easy swaps:
- Add veggies: Sautéed mushrooms, onions, bell peppers, or black olives work great.
- Swap the protein: Use cooked sausage, grilled chicken, or even vegetarian pepperoni.
- Spice it up: Add jalapeños or hot sauce to the mix.
- Make it creamy: Stir in 1/4 cup of ricotta or cream cheese before baking for a creamier texture.
Storage & Reheating
- Refrigerator: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Freezer: Freeze baked or unbaked casserole, tightly wrapped, for up to 1 month.
- To Reheat: Warm in a 350°F (175°C) oven or microwave until heated through.
FAQ – You Asked, We Answered
Can I use dry tortellini instead of fresh/frozen?
Yes, but adjust the cooking time and ensure it’s fully cooked before mixing.
What’s the best type of sauce for this?
Pizza sauce works best, but you can also use marinara or even a spicy arrabbiata.
Can I make this ahead?
Absolutely! Assemble it the night before, refrigerate, and bake when ready.
Pro Cooking Tip:
Want that crispy golden top layer? Broil the casserole for 2–3 minutes at the end — just keep an eye on it!
Final Thoughts
This Cheese Tortellini Pepperoni Pizza Casserole isn’t just dinner — it’s comfort in a dish. Easy to prep, fun to eat, and endlessly adaptable. Whether you’re feeding picky kids or hungry adults, this dish satisfies every time. Potsticker Soup with Mushrooms Bok Choy