Cheese Tortellini Pepperoni Pizza Casserole

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This casserole is the ultimate fusion of two favorites: pizza and pasta. It’s easy to assemble, customizable, and perfect for busy weeknights or casual gatherings. With gooey cheese, bold pizza flavors, and comforting pasta, it’s a guaranteed hit for both kids and adults.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Cheese tortellini (fresh or frozen)
Pizza sauce or marinara sauce
Shredded mozzarella cheese
Sliced pepperoni
Italian seasoning
Grated Parmesan cheese
Olive oil
Optional toppings: black olives, green peppers, mushrooms, red onion

Directions

Cook the Tortellini:
Boil cheese tortellini according to package instructions. Drain and toss with a little olive oil to prevent sticking.
Layer the Casserole:
Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). In a greased baking dish, spread a layer of sauce. Add half the tortellini, followed by more sauce, a layer of mozzarella, and half the pepperoni slices. Repeat the layers.
Add Final Toppings:
Sprinkle Italian seasoning and grated Parmesan cheese over the top. Add optional pizza toppings if using.
Bake:
Cover with foil and bake for 20 minutes. Remove the foil and bake an additional 10-15 minutes until bubbly and golden brown.
Rest and Serve:
Let the casserole rest for 5 minutes before serving.

Servings and Timing

Servings: 6 servings
Preparation Time: 10 minutes
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
Total Time: Approximately 45 minutes

Variations

Meaty Version: Add cooked sausage or ground beef for extra protein.
Veggie Style: Swap pepperoni for sautéed mushrooms, zucchini, or spinach.
Spicy Kick: Add red pepper flakes or hot Italian sausage for some heat.
Different Tortellini: Use spinach and ricotta or meat-filled tortellini for variety.

Storage/Reheating

Storage: Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.
Freezing: Assemble and freeze before baking, or freeze leftovers. Use within 2 months.
Reheating: Warm in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 15-20 minutes, or microwave single servings.

FAQs

Can I use frozen tortellini?

Yes, just boil them according to the package instructions before assembling the casserole.

What kind of sauce works best?

Pizza sauce offers a more concentrated flavor, but marinara sauce works well too.

Can I make this casserole ahead of time?

Yes, assemble it up to a day in advance and refrigerate until ready to bake.

What cheese is best for topping?

Mozzarella is classic, but you can add provolone or cheddar for variety.

Do I have to cook the tortellini first?

Yes, cooking the tortellini before baking ensures it doesn’t turn out undercooked or chewy.

Can I use turkey pepperoni?

Absolutely—turkey pepperoni is a great lower-fat alternative.

How do I prevent the casserole from drying out?

Covering it with foil during the first part of baking helps retain moisture.

Can I double the recipe?

Yes, use a larger baking dish or two medium ones if serving a crowd.

Is this dish spicy?

Not inherently, but you can make it spicy by adding red pepper flakes or spicy toppings.

Can I add extra vegetables?

Yes, chopped bell peppers, onions, or mushrooms are great additions.

Conclusion

Cheese tortellini pepperoni pizza casserole is the perfect blend of cheesy comfort and bold pizza flavor. Easy to prepare and endlessly customizable, it’s a delicious twist on traditional casseroles that’s sure to be a favorite at your table.