Cheese Tortellini Pepperoni Pizza Casserole is a delightful fusion of two favorite comfort foods: pizza and pasta. This easy-to-make casserole combines cheesy tortellini with savory pepperoni, rich pizza sauce, and a blend of Italian seasonings to create a mouthwatering dish that’s perfect for family dinners or potlucks. Packed with flavor and simple to prepare, this casserole is sure to become a household favorite.
Ingredients
- 1 (20 ounce) package of refrigerated cheese tortellini
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 (15 ounce) can pizza sauce
- 1 (14.5 ounce) can diced tomatoes
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1 cup sliced pepperoni
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Tortellini
- Cook Tortellini: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the cheese tortellini and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics
- Heat Olive Oil: In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat.
- Sauté Onion and Garlic: Add the chopped onion and sauté for 3-4 minutes until softened. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
Step 3: Prepare the Sauce
- Add Sauce Ingredients: Stir in the pizza sauce, diced tomatoes (with their juices), dried oregano, and dried basil. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Simmer: Bring the mixture to a simmer and cook for 5-7 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.
Step 4: Assemble the Casserole
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Combine Tortellini and Sauce: In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked tortellini with the sauce mixture. Stir until the tortellini is well coated.
- Layer in Baking Dish: Spread half of the tortellini mixture in a 9×13-inch baking dish. Sprinkle half of the shredded mozzarella cheese and half of the sliced pepperoni over the top. Repeat with the remaining tortellini mixture, mozzarella cheese, and pepperoni.
- Add Parmesan: Sprinkle the grated Parmesan cheese evenly over the top.
Step 5: Bake the Casserole
- Bake: Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 20 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown.
Step 6: Serve
- Garnish and Serve: Remove the casserole from the oven and let it cool slightly before serving. Garnish with fresh basil or parsley if desired. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Notes and Variations
Tips for Success
- Use Fresh Ingredients: For the best flavor, use fresh garlic, onions, and high-quality canned tomatoes and pizza sauce.
- Cook Tortellini Al Dente: Be sure to cook the tortellini just until al dente, as it will continue to cook in the oven.
- Season to Taste: Adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper to suit your taste preferences.
Variations
- Vegetarian Version: Skip the pepperoni and add your favorite vegetables like bell peppers, mushrooms, or spinach for a vegetarian version.
- Meat Lovers: Add cooked Italian sausage or ground beef for an extra meaty casserole.
- Different Cheeses: Use a combination of cheeses such as provolone, cheddar, or gouda for a different flavor profile.
- Spicy Kick: Add red pepper flakes to the sauce for a spicy version of this dish.
Keto and Low-Carb Versions
To make this dish keto-friendly or low-carb:
- Use Cauliflower Tortellini: Substitute regular tortellini with cauliflower tortellini or another low-carb pasta alternative.
- Reduce Tomato Sauce: Use a low-carb pizza sauce and diced tomatoes.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Can I use frozen tortellini?
Yes, you can use frozen tortellini. Just cook it according to the package instructions before using it in the recipe.
2. Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
Yes, you can assemble the casserole ahead of time, cover it with aluminum foil, and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours. When ready to bake, follow the baking instructions, adding a few extra minutes if baking directly from the refrigerator.
3. How do I store leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave until heated through.
4. Can I freeze this casserole?
Yes, this casserole freezes well. Assemble the casserole and wrap it tightly with plastic wrap and aluminum foil. Freeze for up to 3 months. To bake, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and follow the baking instructions.
5. What can I serve with this casserole?
This casserole pairs well with a fresh green salad, garlic bread, or steamed vegetables.
6. Can I use a different type of pasta?
Yes, you can substitute the cheese tortellini with other types of stuffed pasta or regular pasta, such as penne or rigatoni.
7. Is there a dairy-free option?
For a dairy-free version, use dairy-free cheese alternatives and a dairy-free pizza sauce.
Cheese Tortellini Pepperoni Pizza Casserole is a delightful, family-friendly dish that combines the best of pizza and pasta into one easy-to-make casserole. With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, this recipe is perfect for busy weeknights or cozy family dinners. Customize it with your favorite toppings and enjoy a delicious meal that everyone will love. Happy cooking!
