Description
This Cheese Tortellini Pepperoni Pizza Casserole is a hearty and comforting Italian-American dish that combines cheesy cheese tortellini with classic pizza flavors. It features layers of tender tortellini tossed in marinara sauce, topped with mozzarella, pepperoni, and Parmesan cheese, baked to bubbly perfection and garnished with fresh herbs.
Ingredients
Scale
Cheese Tortellini Mixture
- 20 ounces refrigerated cheese tortellini
- 2 cups marinara or pizza sauce
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 0.5 teaspoon garlic powder
- 0.25 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
Toppings
- 1.5 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 0.5 cup mini pepperoni slices
- 0.25 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Garnish
- Fresh basil or parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat Oven and Prepare Dish: Preheat your oven to 375°F and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish to prevent sticking and ensure easy cleanup.
- Cook Tortellini: Cook the refrigerated cheese tortellini according to the package directions until just al dente, then drain thoroughly to remove excess water.
- Mix Tortellini with Sauce and Seasonings: In a large bowl, combine the cooked tortellini with marinara sauce, olive oil, Italian seasoning, garlic powder, and crushed red pepper flakes if using. Toss everything together until well coated.
- Layer the Casserole: Spread half of the tortellini mixture evenly into the prepared baking dish. Sprinkle with half of the shredded mozzarella cheese, half of the mini pepperoni slices, and half of the grated Parmesan cheese.
- Add Remaining Layers: Repeat the layering with the remaining tortellini mixture, mozzarella, pepperoni, and Parmesan cheese on top.
- Bake the Casserole: Place the dish uncovered in the preheated oven and bake for 25 to 30 minutes, or until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and has turned lightly golden brown on top.
- Rest and Garnish: Remove the casserole from the oven and let it rest for 5 minutes to set. Garnish with freshly chopped basil or parsley if desired before serving.
Notes
- Customize the casserole by adding cooked sausage, mushrooms, olives, or bell peppers for extra flavor and texture.
- For a crispier cheese topping, broil the casserole for the last 2 minutes, watching closely to avoid burning.
