Easy Cheese Tortellini Pizza Bake

This Easy Cheese Tortellini Pizza Bake combines the best of pizza and pasta into one irresistible dish. Loaded with melty cheese, zesty pizza sauce, and savory pepperoni, it’s a family-friendly meal that’s quick to prepare and always a hit at the dinner table.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Comfort Food at Its Best: A cheesy, saucy casserole that’s satisfying and hearty.
• Quick and Easy: Ready in just 40 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
• Customizable: Easily adjust toppings and ingredients to suit your family’s preferences.
• Gluten-Free Option: Use gluten-free tortellini to make this dish friendly for those avoiding gluten.

Ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

• 1 package cheese tortellini (fresh or frozen)
• 1/2 cup pizza sauce
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 1/2 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 2 cups shredded cheese (mozzarella works best)
• 2 cups milk
• 2 ounces pepperoni slices
• Additional pepperoni slices (for topping)

Directions

1. Cook the Tortellini:
   Prepare the cheese tortellini according to the package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. Prepare the Sauce:
   In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant. Stir in the pizza sauce, milk, and Italian seasoning. Cook for 2-3 minutes until the sauce is warmed through.
3. Assemble the Bake:
   In a large baking dish, combine the cooked tortellini and the sauce, stirring to coat the pasta evenly. Sprinkle half of the shredded cheese over the mixture.
4. Add Toppings:
   Layer the pepperoni slices evenly over the top, then sprinkle the remaining cheese on top. Add extra pepperoni slices for a pizza-like finish.
5. Bake:
   Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Bake the dish for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
6. Serve:
   Let the casserole cool for 5 minutes before serving. Pair with a side salad or garlic bread for a complete meal.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 6
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 25 minutes
• Total Time: 40 minutes

Variations

• Vegetarian Option: Skip the pepperoni and load up with veggies like bell peppers, mushrooms, or olives.
• Meat Lovers: Add cooked sausage, bacon, or ham for a heartier dish.
• Spicy Kick: Sprinkle red pepper flakes over the top for a touch of heat.
• Different Cheeses: Try a mix of mozzarella, cheddar, and Parmesan for extra cheesy goodness.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Reheating: Reheat individual portions in the microwave for 1-2 minutes, or warm the entire dish in a 350°F (175°C) oven for 10-15 minutes.

FAQs

1. Can I use frozen tortellini?

Yes, just cook the frozen tortellini according to the package instructions before assembling the bake.

2. What type of cheese works best for this recipe?

Mozzarella is ideal for that classic pizza flavor, but a blend of mozzarella and cheddar works great too.

3. Can I use marinara sauce instead of pizza sauce?

Absolutely! Marinara works well as a substitute for pizza sauce.

4. How can I make this gluten-free?

Use gluten-free tortellini and ensure your pizza sauce is gluten-free.

5. Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?

Yes, you can assemble the casserole up to 1 day in advance. Cover and refrigerate, then bake when ready.

6. What other toppings can I add?

You can add mushrooms, olives, diced bell peppers, or cooked sausage to customize the dish.

7. Can I freeze this casserole?

Yes, freeze the assembled (but unbaked) casserole in an airtight container. When ready to eat, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and bake as directed.

8. How do I prevent the tortellini from getting mushy?

Cook the tortellini until just al dente, as it will continue to cook slightly in the oven.

9. Can I use fresh tortellini instead of frozen?

Yes, fresh tortellini works just as well. Adjust the cooking time according to the package instructions.

10. What can I serve with this dish?

Serve with a fresh salad, garlic bread, or roasted vegetables for a complete meal.

Conclusion

Easy Cheese Tortellini Pizza Bake is the perfect comfort food for busy weeknights or lazy weekends. With its cheesy, saucy goodness and pizza-inspired flavors, it’s a dish that’s sure to please everyone at the table. Customize it with your favorite toppings and make it your own. Try it tonight and enjoy the best of pizza and pasta in one delicious casserole!

Easy Cheese Tortellini Pizza Bake

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• Author: Asma
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 25 minutes
• Total Time: 40 minutes
• Yield: 6 servings 1x
• Category: Main Dish
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: Italian-American

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Description

Cheese Tortellini Pizza Bake combines the best of both worlds—pizza and pasta—in one easy, cheesy dish! Packed with tortellini, zesty pizza sauce, melty cheese, and pepperoni, this quick dinner recipe is perfect for busy weeknights or family dinners.

 

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Ingredients

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Main Ingredients:

• 12 oz cheese tortellini (store-bought or fresh)
• 1/2 cup pizza sauce
• 2 cups shredded cheese (mozzarella or a pizza blend)
• 2 oz pepperoni slices (or more, to taste)

For the Sauce:

• 2 cups milk
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/2 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• 1 tablespoon olive oil

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Instructions

1. Cook the Tortellini:
   • Boil the tortellini according to the package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. Prepare the Sauce:
   • In a medium skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté until fragrant, about 1 minute.
   • Stir in the milk, Italian seasoning, and pizza sauce. Simmer for 2-3 minutes until slightly thickened.
3. Assemble the Casserole:
   • Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
   • In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked tortellini with the prepared sauce. Toss to coat evenly.
   • Transfer the mixture to a greased 9×13-inch baking dish.
4. Add the Toppings:
   • Sprinkle the shredded cheese evenly over the tortellini mixture.
   • Top with pepperoni slices, spacing them out evenly.
5. Bake:
   • Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
6. Serve:
   • Remove from the oven and let cool for 5 minutes before serving. Enjoy warm!

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Notes

• Vegetarian Option: Omit the pepperoni or replace it with sliced mushrooms or bell peppers for a vegetarian version.
• Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Reheating: Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) or in the microwave until warmed through.