Cheese Tortellini Pepperoni Pizza Casserole
Let’s just take a moment to appreciate the beauty of comfort food mashups. This Cheese Tortellini Pepperoni Pizza Casserole is what happens when cheesy pizza and hearty pasta fall in love and trust me, it’s a match made in flavor heaven. It’s saucy, cheesy, a little crispy on top, and packed with all the flavors you adore in a classic pepperoni pizza, just with a fun pasta twist.
Perfect for weeknights, game days, or just because-you-deserve-it nights, this dish delivers serious cozy vibes. The best part? It’s super simple to make but feels like something extra special. So grab your casserole dish and get ready to fall in love with dinner.
Why You’ll Love Cheese Tortellini Pepperoni Pizza Casserole
This recipe isn’t just about the ingredients it’s about creating moments. Whether you’re cooking for a casual family dinner, hosting a get-together with friends, or simply indulging in some comforting flavors for yourself, this dish is versatile enough to fit the occasion. Here’s why it’s a favorite:
Versatile: A perfect hybrid between pizza and pasta two beloved dishes in one easy bake.
Budget-Friendly: Uses everyday ingredients like pasta, sauce, and cheese no need to break the bank.
Quick and Easy: Minimal prep, especially if you use store-bought sauce and tortellini.
Customizable: Add your favorite pizza toppings or swap in different cheeses to make it your own.
Crowd-Pleasing: A guaranteed hit with both kids and adults. It’s always a win when a single dish can satisfy everyone at the table. This recipe strikes the perfect balance of flavor and comfort, making it a universal favorite.
Ingredients in Cheese Tortellini Pepperoni Pizza Casserole
Each layer of this casserole brings bold, comforting flavor let’s take a look at the all-stars.
Cheese Tortellini
Tender pasta pockets filled with rich, cheesy goodness. They hold up well in baking and soak up all the saucy flavor.
Marinara or Pizza Sauce
The flavor base that ties it all together. Use your favorite brand or homemade sauce for a personal touch.
Pepperoni
A little spicy, a little crispy it brings that irresistible pizza flavor to every bite.
Mozzarella Cheese
Melts into gooey perfection and gives that classic pizza stretch when you dig in.
Italian Seasoning
A sprinkle of this herb blend infuses the whole dish with cozy, savory aroma.
Parmesan Cheese
Adds a salty, nutty finish that makes every layer extra flavorful.
Olive Oil or Butter
Used to grease the dish and give a hint of richness.
(Note: the full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.)

Instructions
Let’s dive into the steps to create this flavorful masterpiece:
Preheat Your Equipment
Preheat your oven to 375°F. This gives the casserole the perfect environment to bake evenly and get golden on top.
Combine Ingredients
In a large bowl, toss cooked tortellini with marinara sauce, Italian seasoning, and half of the mozzarella and parmesan cheese.
Prepare Your Cooking Vessel
Lightly grease a casserole dish with olive oil or butter to prevent sticking and make cleanup easier.
Assemble the Dish
Pour the tortellini mixture into the dish. Top with remaining mozzarella, a generous layer of pepperoni, and a sprinkle of parmesan.
Cook to Perfection
Bake uncovered for 20–25 minutes, until the cheese is melted and bubbly, and the pepperoni edges start to crisp.
Finishing Touches
Let the casserole rest for about 5 minutes before serving. This helps everything set and makes slicing easier.
Serve and Enjoy
Scoop it up and dig in! Each bite is like pizza and pasta had a delicious baby.
Nutrition Facts:
Servings: 6
Calories per serving: 460
(Note: Nutrition values are approximate and can vary based on specific ingredients used.)
Preparation Time
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Total Time: 35 minutes
How to Serve Cheese Tortellini Pepperoni Pizza Casserole
This dish pairs wonderfully with various sides and accompaniments. Here are a few serving suggestions to enhance your dining experience:
- A fresh green salad with vinaigrette to balance the richness.
- Garlic bread or breadsticks for dunking into extra sauce.
- Roasted veggies like zucchini or bell peppers on the side.
- A cold soda or iced tea for that full pizza-night experience.
- A sprinkle of red pepper flakes or fresh basil for extra flavor.
Additional Tips
Here are some extra tips to help you get the most out of this recipe:
- Cook tortellini just to al dente they’ll soften more in the oven.
- Want extra veggies? Add bell peppers, mushrooms, or olives before baking.
- Make it meatier by adding crumbled cooked sausage or ground beef.
- Use mini pepperoni for more even topping coverage.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days reheats beautifully!
FAQ’s
1. Can I use frozen tortellini?
Yes, just cook it according to the package directions before assembling.
2. Can I prepare it ahead of time?
Absolutely! Assemble the casserole, cover, and refrigerate up to 24 hours before baking.
3. Can I freeze it?
You can freeze the unbaked casserole. Thaw overnight in the fridge before baking.
4. What other toppings can I use?
Think pizza toppings olives, mushrooms, sausage, bell peppers, you name it!
5. Can I use a different pasta?
Sure! Penne or rotini can work, but cheese tortellini adds extra richness.
6. Is there a vegetarian option?
Yes just skip the pepperoni or use plant-based pepperoni alternatives.
7. Can I use a different cheese?
Definitely! Provolone, cheddar, or a pizza blend all work beautifully.
8. How do I store leftovers?
Refrigerate in an airtight container and enjoy within 3–4 days.
9. How do I reheat it?
Microwave or bake at 350°F until heated through cover with foil to keep it moist.
10. Can I make it spicy?
Add crushed red pepper flakes to the sauce or use spicy pepperoni.
Conclusion
Cheese Tortellini Pepperoni Pizza Casserole is pure comfort in a dish cheesy, saucy, and packed with all your favorite pizza flavors wrapped up in cozy pasta goodness. It’s easy to whip up, totally customizable, and guaranteed to bring big smiles to the table. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or just indulging in a cozy night-in, this one’s a keeper. Now go ahead serve up a slice of delicious mashup magic!
Print
Cheese Tortellini Pepperoni Pizza Casserole
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American/Italian-Inspired
- Diet: Halal
Description
A hearty and cheesy casserole combining tender cheese tortellini, zesty marinara, gooey mozzarella, and crispy pepperoni — all the flavors of pizza in a comforting pasta bake.
Ingredients
- 20 oz cheese tortellini (fresh or frozen)
- 2 cups marinara or pizza sauce
- 1 ½ cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 cup sliced pepperoni
- 1/2 tsp Italian seasoning
- 1/4 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tbsp olive oil (optional)
- Fresh basil or parsley for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9×13 inch baking dish.
- Cook tortellini according to package directions. Drain and set aside.
- In a large bowl, mix cooked tortellini with marinara sauce, half the mozzarella, Parmesan, Italian seasoning, and garlic powder.
- Transfer mixture to the prepared baking dish. Top with remaining mozzarella and arrange pepperoni slices on top.
- Bake uncovered for 20–25 minutes, or until cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Garnish with fresh herbs if desired and serve hot.
Notes
- Use mini pepperoni for better coverage and texture.
- Add veggies like mushrooms or bell peppers for extra nutrition.
- Great for make-ahead meals or potlucks.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 480
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 720mg
- Fat: 24g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 11g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 22g
- Cholesterol: 60mg
Keywords: tortellini casserole, pizza bake, pepperoni pasta, cheese tortellini bake, kid-friendly dinner