Ingredients You’ll Need
For the Casserole:
- 1 pound cheese tortellini (fresh or frozen)
- 1 cup marinara sauce (store-bought or homemade)
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1 cup sliced pepperoni
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Optional: Fresh basil for garnish
How to Make Cheese Tortellini Pepperoni Pizza Casserole
Step 1: Cook the Tortellini
In a large pot of salted boiling water, cook the cheese tortellini according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
Step 2: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) to ensure it’s hot and ready for baking.
Step 3: Mix the Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked tortellini, marinara sauce, half of the mozzarella cheese, half of the Parmesan cheese, sliced pepperoni, Italian seasoning, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Stir until all the ingredients are well mixed and coated.
Step 4: Transfer to a Baking Dish
Pour the tortellini mixture into a greased 9×13 inch baking dish. Spread it evenly and ensure the ingredients are distributed.
Step 5: Top with Cheese and Pepperoni
Sprinkle the remaining mozzarella and Parmesan cheese over the top of the casserole. Add additional pepperoni slices on top if desired for an extra cheesy, meaty finish.
Step 6: Bake
Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and golden brown.
Step 7: Serve
Remove the casserole from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes. Garnish with fresh basil if desired, and serve warm.
Kitchen Equipment Needed
- Large pot for cooking tortellini
- Mixing bowl
- 9×13 inch baking dish
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Spoon or spatula for mixing
Tips and Recipe Variations
- Add Vegetables: Incorporate chopped bell peppers, onions, or mushrooms for added nutrition and flavor.
- Protein Options: For a meatier casserole, consider adding cooked sausage or ground beef in addition to or instead of pepperoni.
- Spice It Up: If you enjoy a bit of heat, add some sliced jalapeños or red pepper flakes to the mixture.
- Cheese Choices: Experiment with different cheeses like provolone, gouda, or even a spicy cheese blend for a unique twist.
How to Store Leftovers
Leftover Cheese Tortellini Pepperoni Pizza Casserole can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply place it in the microwave or in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through.
Pairing Suggestions
To complete your meal, consider serving these sides alongside your casserole:
- Garlic Bread: A crunchy garlic bread is perfect for dipping into any extra marinara sauce.
- Caesar Salad: A crisp Caesar salad adds a refreshing contrast to the richness of the casserole.
- Roasted Vegetables: Roasted veggies provide a nutritious and colorful side dish that pairs nicely with the flavors of pizza.