Cheese Tortellini Pepperoni Pizza Casserole Recipe

Introduction

This Cheese Tortellini Pepperoni Pizza Casserole is the ultimate easy weeknight dinner that combines two family favorites into one delicious dish. Ready in under an hour, it layers cheesy tortellini with classic pizza toppings like pepperoni and marinara sauce for a comforting meal everyone will love. If you enjoy tortellini recipes, try this Easy Beef & Parmesan Tortellini in Creamy Sauce Ready in 30 Minutes for another quick dinner option.

Ingredients

This Cheese Tortellini Pepperoni Pizza Casserole combines cheesy tortellini with savory pepperoni and rich pizza sauce for a comforting, family-friendly meal that delivers all the flavors of pizza in one delicious baked dish.

• 16 ounces Cheese Stuffed Tortellini
• 2 Garlic Cloves, minced
• 1 Tablespoon Olive Oil
• 2 Cups Whole Milk
• 1/2 teaspoon Dry Italian Seasoning
• 8 ounces Original Velveeta Cheese, cubed
• 2 Cups Shredded Cheese Blend (including mozzarella)
• 2 ounces Pepperoni, quartered
• 1/2 Cup Pizza Sauce
• Sliced Pepperoni for topping
• 1 Cup Shredded Mozzarella Cheese

Timing

Prep Time	15 minutes
Cook Time	25 minutes
Total Time	40 minutes

Context: This Cheese Tortellini Pepperoni Pizza Casserole is about 20% faster than similar recipes, making it a great choice for busy weeknights.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1 — Preheat Oven and Prepare Baking Dish

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with non-stick cooking spray or a thin layer of olive oil. This prevents the Cheese Tortellini Pepperoni Pizza Casserole from sticking and ensures easy serving.

Step 2 — Cook the Tortellini

Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Add the cheese tortellini and cook according to package directions until al dente, usually 7–9 minutes. Drain well but do not rinse, as the starch helps the sauce adhere.

Step 3 — Combine Tortellini with Sauce

In a large mixing bowl, combine the drained tortellini with your favorite pizza or marinara sauce. Stir gently until the tortellini are evenly coated. For extra flavor, mix in a teaspoon of Italian seasoning or a pinch of garlic powder.

Step 4 — Layer the Casserole Base

Spread the saucy tortellini mixture evenly in the prepared baking dish. Top with a generous layer of shredded mozzarella cheese, covering the tortellini completely. This creates the cheesy foundation of your casserole.

Step 5 — Arrange Pepperoni and Toppings

Arrange pepperoni slices in a single layer over the cheese. Add other pizza toppings if desired, such as sliced mushrooms, black olives, or bell peppers. For crispier pepperoni, place some slices on top and others within the layers.

Step 6 — Add Final Cheese Layer

Sprinkle another layer of mozzarella over the pepperoni and toppings. You can also add a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese for a richer, golden-brown crust. Using a blend of cheeses enhances the overall flavor of your Cheese Tortellini Pepperoni Pizza Casserole.

Step 7 — Bake Until Bubbly and Golden

Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake for 20–25 minutes, or until the cheese is fully melted, bubbly, and lightly browned around the edges. The internal temperature should reach at least 165°F when checked with a food thermometer.

Step 8 — Rest Before Serving

Remove the casserole from the oven and let it rest for 5–10 minutes before serving. This allows the layers to set, making it easier to slice and serve neat portions. Garnish with fresh basil or parsley if desired.

Step 9 — Storage and Reheating Tips

Store any leftover Cheese Tortellini Pepperoni Pizza Casserole in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat individual portions in the microwave or the entire dish in a 350°F oven until warmed through.

Nutritional Information

Calories	485
Protein	22g
Carbohydrates	48g
Fat	21g
Fiber	3g
Sodium	980mg

Note: Estimates based on typical ingredients and serving size.

Healthier Alternatives

• Turkey Pepperoni — Leaner protein with the same spicy kick and classic pizza flavor.
• Chicken Sausage Crumbles — A lower-fat protein alternative that adds savory, herby notes.
• Zucchini Noodles or Spiralized Veggies — Low-carb base that keeps the dish fresh and light.
• Whole Wheat or Chickpea Tortellini — Higher fiber and protein while maintaining the cheesy pasta texture.
• Nutritional Yeast or Vegan Cheese — Dairy-free option for a cheesy, umami flavor without dairy.
• Gluten-Free Tortellini — Ideal for gluten sensitivities, with rice or quinoa blends offering a similar bite.
• Low-Sodium Marinara and Reduced-Sodium Pepperoni — Cuts salt significantly while preserving the Italian tomato zest.
• Extra Veggies like Bell Peppers and Mushrooms — Boost nutrients and add earthy, sweet flavors to the casserole.

Serving Suggestions

• Pair this Cheese Tortellini Pepperoni Pizza Casserole with a crisp Caesar salad or garlic breadsticks for a complete Italian-inspired meal.
• Serve at casual gatherings like game day parties or family potlucks where crowd-pleasing comfort food is a must.
• Perfect for busy weeknights—make ahead and reheat for a quick, satisfying dinner the whole family will love.
• For a fun twist, serve individual portions in mini cast-iron skillets or oven-safe bowls for a personal pizza casserole experience.
• Balance the richness with a light side like a fresh arugula salad with lemon vinaigrette or steamed green beans.
• Great for kids’ birthday parties or sleepovers—it combines familiar pizza flavors with the fun of pasta in one dish.

This Cheese Tortellini Pepperoni Pizza Casserole is versatile enough for any occasion, from cozy family dinners to festive gatherings with friends.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Mistake: Using frozen tortellini directly from the freezer. Fix: Thaw it first or par-cook to prevent excess water from ruining your casserole’s texture.
• Mistake: Overloading with pepperoni, making it overly greasy. Fix: Use a moderate layer and blot slices with a paper towel to absorb excess oil.
• Mistake: Skipping the pre-cook on vegetables like onions or peppers. Fix: Sauté them briefly to soften and release sweetness, avoiding a raw, crunchy bite.
• Mistake: Choosing a watery pizza sauce. Fix: Opt for a thick, high-quality sauce or simmer yours to reduce liquid content.
• Mistake: Baking uncovered the entire time, leading to dried-out edges. Fix: Cover with foil for the first half of baking, then uncover to melt cheese and crisp the top.
• Mistake: Not seasoning the cheese tortellini filling adequately. Fix: Taste your sauce and cheese mixture before assembling, adjusting salt and Italian herbs as needed.
• Mistake: Using only one type of cheese on top. Fix: Blend mozzarella for meltiness with a sharper cheese like provolone or parmesan for deeper flavor.
• Mistake: Cutting into the Cheese Tortellini Pepperoni Pizza Casserole immediately after baking. Fix: Let it rest for 5-10 minutes so layers set and servings hold their shape.

Storing Tips

• Fridge: Cool your Cheese Tortellini Pepperoni Pizza Casserole completely, then store in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
• Freezer: Portion the casserole into freezer-safe containers or bags. It will keep for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
• Reheat: For best results, reheat in the oven at 350°F until the internal temperature reaches 165°F, which is the safe temperature for leftovers. You can also use the microwave, stirring occasionally.

Always use shallow containers for quicker cooling to ensure food safety, and never leave your casserole at room temperature for more than two hours.

Conclusion

This Cheese Tortellini Pepperoni Pizza Casserole is the ultimate comfort food mashup that’s sure to become a family favorite. If you love this recipe, try our Cheesesteak Tortellini in Rich Provolone Sauce Recipe next! Don’t forget to leave a comment with your review and subscribe for more easy, delicious recipes.

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FAQs

Can I make this Cheese Tortellini Pepperoni Pizza Casserole ahead of time?

Yes, you can assemble this casserole a day in advance. Cover it tightly and refrigerate until ready to bake. You may need to add a few extra minutes to the baking time since it will be cold from the fridge.

What can I use instead of pepperoni in this recipe?

You can substitute pepperoni with cooked Italian sausage, diced ham, or even sliced salami. For a vegetarian version, try adding sliced olives, mushrooms, or bell peppers to keep the pizza flavor in your Cheese Tortellini Pepperoni Pizza Casserole.

Can I freeze the Cheese Tortellini Pepperoni Pizza Casserole?

Yes, this casserole freezes well. Assemble it completely but do not bake. Wrap it tightly and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before baking as directed.