Pepperoni Pizza Casserole with Cheese Tortellini

Are you ready to elevate your comfort food game with a dish that combines the best of both worlds? Look no further than this crowd-pleasing Cheese Tortellini Pepperoni Pizza Casserole. Imagine cheesy tortellini embracing the flavors of a classic pepperoni pizza in one glorious casserole dish. It’s a match made in culinary heaven that will have both kids and adults coming back for seconds and thirds!

I discovered this Cheese Tortellini Pepperoni Pizza Casserole recipe during a chilly winter gathering when I needed a comforting meal that would wow everyone without spending hours in the kitchen. The cheesy goodness of tortellini blended with the familiar taste of pizza creates a dish that hits all the right notes. Even my picky teenage nephew couldn’t resist its charm, dubbing it “genius” after just one bite. And my husband, a traditional pizza lover, couldn’t get enough of this hearty casserole, making it a regular request at our dinner table.

Serve this delectable casserole alongside a crisp green salad or garlic bread for a complete meal that will warm your soul. Feel free to customize it with your favorite pizza toppings or different flavored tortellini for a unique twist. Whether it’s a cozy family movie night or a laid-back potluck dinner, this Cheese Tortellini Pepperoni Pizza Casserole is sure to steal the show and become a new favorite in your recipe rotation. Get ready to delight your taste buds with this irresistible fusion of pasta and pizza flavors!

Quick Benefits

• Combines the flavors of pizza and cheesy pasta for a satisfying hybrid dish
• Crowd-pleasing meal that appeals to both kids and adults
• Versatile recipe that can be customized with favorite pizza toppings
• Perfect for casual gatherings or cozy family dinners

Why You’ll Love This Pepperoni Pizza Casserole with Cheese Tortellini Recipe

• Perfect Fusion of Pasta and Pizza: This recipe combines the best of both worlds – cheesy tortellini with the flavors of a pepperoni pizza, satisfying both pasta and pizza cravings in one dish.
• Crowd-Pleasing Dish: Ideal for family gatherings or potluck dinners, this casserole is a hit with both kids and adults, making it a versatile and dependable go-to recipe.
• Teenager-Approved: Even notoriously picky eaters, like teenagers, find this dish irresistible, showcasing its universal appeal and delicious flavors.
• Comforting and Hearty: The cheesy goodness of this casserole provides comfort food at its best, perfect for colder months or when you need a satisfying meal.
• Customizable and Versatile: Easily customize this dish by adding your favorite pizza toppings, different flavored tortellini, or extra meat for a personalized twist on the base recipe.
• Accompaniment Options: Serve with a green salad, garlic bread, or tomato soup for a complete meal experience, catering to different preferences and occasions.
• Memorable and Requested: This casserole has become a household favorite, with guests and family members alike requesting it repeatedly, showcasing its special place as a new family staple.

Ingredients for Pepperoni Pizza Casserole with Cheese Tortellini

Pasta

• 1 package (16 oz) cheese tortellini

Cheese Sauce

• 8 ounces Velveeta cheese, cubed
• 2 cups shredded cheese (mozzarella-based blend)
• ½ teaspoon Italian seasoning
• 2 cups milk
• 2 garlic cloves, chopped
• 1 tablespoon olive oil

Pizza Elements

• ½ cup pizza sauce
• Additional pepperoni slices for topping
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• 2 ounces pepperoni, quartered (about ½ cup)

How to Make Pepperoni Pizza Casserole with Cheese Tortellini

Step 1: Prepare Oven and Dish

Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C) and lightly grease a 9×13 inch casserole dish or a similar-sized baking dish.

Step 2: Cook Tortellini

Prepare the cheese tortellini according to package instructions until al dente. Drain thoroughly and set aside.

Step 3: Sauté Garlic

Heat olive oil in a large saucepan or deep skillet over medium heat. Sauté chopped garlic until fragrant and lightly golden, about 1-2 minutes, being careful not to burn.

Step 4: Start Cheese Sauce

Add Italian seasoning to the pan with the garlic and milk. Heat the mixture until warm, but not boiling.

Step 5: Melt Cheeses

Lower the heat to low. Slowly combine cubed Velveeta and 2 cups of shredded cheese with warm milk, stirring constantly until cheese is melted and sauce is smooth.

Step 6: Combine with Pasta

Remove from heat and mix the cooked tortellini into the cheese sauce. Gently stir in the quartered pepperoni to coat evenly.

Step 7: Transfer to Baking Dish

Transfer the tortellini and cheese mixture into the greased casserole dish, ensuring it is spread evenly.

Step 8: Add Pizza Sauce

Dollop pizza sauce over tortellini mixture, then swirl with a spoon to create a marbled effect.

Step 9: Add Toppings

Evenly place the pepperoni slices on top of the casserole, then sprinkle the remaining 1 cup of mozzarella cheese over the pepperoni.

Step 10: Bake

Bake in the preheated oven for about 25 minutes or until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and starting to turn golden brown on the edges.

Step 11: Rest and Serve

Take the casserole out of the oven and allow it to rest for 5-10 minutes before serving to help the cheese set and make serving easier.

Storage Tips

After preparing the cheese tortellini pepperoni pizza casserole, any leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, simply place the desired portion in a microwave-safe dish and heat in 30-second intervals until warmed through, stirring in between to ensure even heating. Alternatively, you can reheat the casserole in an oven-safe dish in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated to your liking.

For longer storage, you can freeze the cheese tortellini pepperoni pizza casserole. Allow the dish to cool completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe container or resealable plastic bag. Properly stored, the casserole can be frozen for up to 2-3 months. When ready to enjoy, thaw the casserole overnight in the refrigerator before reheating as instructed above. Freezing may alter the texture slightly, but the flavors will still be delicious. This make-ahead option is perfect for busy weeknights or meal prep for future gatherings.

Ingredient Substitutions

If you’re looking to make this Cheese Tortellini Pepperoni Pizza Casserole a bit healthier, you can swap out the Velveeta cheese for a combination of cheddar and cream cheese or even a plant-based cheese alternative. This can reduce the processed cheese content while still maintaining a creamy texture and cheesy flavor.

For a vegetarian version of this casserole, you can omit the pepperoni and add in more veggies like bell peppers, olives, or mushrooms. You can also try adding marinated artichoke hearts or sun-dried tomatoes for extra flavor. Additionally, consider using a vegetarian pepperoni substitute or adding in some plant-based sausage crumbles for a meaty texture without the pepperoni.

If you’re out of cheese tortellini, you can substitute with any other type of pasta you have on hand, such as penne or bowtie pasta. Just adjust the cooking time according to the package instructions for the pasta you choose. Feel free to experiment with different types of tortellini flavors like spinach or mushroom to add a unique twist to the dish.

Serving Suggestions

Transform your cheese tortellini pepperoni pizza casserole into an interactive and fun meal by setting up a DIY pizza bar. Serve the casserole in a large baking dish at the center of the table surrounded by bowls of extra pizza toppings like bell peppers, olives, and mushrooms. Encourage your guests to customize their portions by adding their favorite toppings before digging in. It’s a great way to get everyone involved and create personalized variations of this delicious dish.

For a cozy night in, serve individual portions of the cheese tortellini pepperoni pizza casserole in mini cast-iron skillets or ramekins. Top each serving with a few extra pepperoni slices and a sprinkle of shredded mozzarella cheese before baking until bubbly and golden brown. This presentation adds a charming touch to your meal and makes it feel extra special. Pair the mini casseroles with garlic knots or breadsticks for a complete pizza-inspired dining experience that will have everyone reaching for seconds.

FAQs for Pepperoni Pizza Casserole with Cheese Tortellini

Can I use different types of cheese in this casserole?

Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with different types of cheese to suit your taste preferences. You can try using cheddar, provolone, or any other cheese that melts well and complements the flavors in the dish.

Can I make this casserole in advance?

Yes, you can assemble the casserole ahead of time and refrigerate it, covered, until you’re ready to bake it. Just be sure to adjust the baking time accordingly, as the dish may need a few extra minutes in the oven if it’s chilled.

Can I freeze leftovers of this casserole?

Yes, this casserole is freezer-friendly. Once baked, allow any leftovers to cool completely before transferring them to an airtight container or freezer-safe bag. To reheat, thaw the casserole overnight in the refrigerator and then bake it in a preheated oven until heated through.

How can I make this casserole vegetarian?

To make this casserole vegetarian, simply omit the pepperoni or replace it with your favorite meatless alternative such as vegetarian sausage crumbles or additional vegetables like bell peppers and mushrooms.

Conclusion

In conclusion, Cheese Tortellini Pepperoni Pizza Casserole is a recipe that has truly won over even the pickiest eaters in my family. Its ability to blend the comforting flavors of pizza with the heartiness of pasta makes it a go-to dish for any occasion. Whether you’re looking for a crowd-pleasing meal or a cozy dinner at home, this casserole is sure to hit the spot.

Don’t be afraid to get creative with this recipe – try different toppings, experiment with various types of tortellini, or add in some extra veggies to customize it to your liking. The beauty of this Cheese Tortellini Pepperoni Pizza Casserole lies in its versatility and ability to adapt to your tastes. So, gather your loved ones around the table, serve up a generous helping of this delicious casserole, and enjoy the smiles and satisfied bellies that are sure to follow. Cheers to creating new family favorites with this delightful fusion of pasta and pizza flavors!