Looking for a cheesy, satisfying dinner? Try this Cheesy Tortellini Pepperoni Pizza Casserole that’s quick and crowd-pleasing. This recipe combines tender cheese-filled tortellini, zesty pizza sauce, and crispy pepperoni, all baked to golden perfection with layers of gooey mozzarella. It’s a fun twist on classic pizza flavors, transformed into a hearty casserole that’s perfect for weeknights or feeding a hungry family. Whether you’re a pizza lover or just craving comfort food with a special touch, this Cheesy Tortellini Pepperoni Pizza Casserole will become an instant favorite.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Easy to Make: The preparation is straightforward, combining few ingredients into one delicious dish.
Family Friendly: It appeals to both kids and adults, making it perfect for any gathering.
Flavor-Packed: Every bite bursts with classic pizza flavors enhanced by creamy cheese tortellini.
Hearty and Filling: This casserole satisfies hunger with protein, pasta, and melted cheese in every portion.
Customizable: You can easily swap ingredients or add veggies to suit your tastes or dietary needs.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Using simple yet essential ingredients ensures that each component plays its part in building layers of flavor, texture, and color in the Cheesy Tortellini Pepperoni Pizza Casserole. Freshness and quality here truly make a difference.

Cheese Tortellini: Use fresh or frozen cheese-filled tortellini for creamy, tender pasta that melts beautifully with cheese.
Pepperoni Slices: Adds a smoky, savory punch that complements the cheese and sauce perfectly.
Pizza Sauce: Choose a thick, flavorful tomato-based pizza sauce that carries the Italian spices forward.
Mozzarella Cheese: Fresh shredded mozzarella melts into gooey perfection, creating a dreamy texture.
Parmesan Cheese: A sprinkle of parmesan amps up savory and nutty notes on top.
Italian Seasoning: A blend of dried herbs that adds authentic Italian flavor without extra effort.
Olive Oil: Used to lightly grease the baking dish and add a subtle richness.
Garlic Powder and Onion Powder: These enhance the sauce and overall depth of flavor.

Variations for Cheesy Tortellini Pepperoni Pizza Casserole

This recipe is incredibly adaptable, letting you make it your own based on what’s in your pantry or specific taste preferences. Feel free to mix things up and explore fun variations.

Vegetarian Option: Replace pepperoni with sautéed mushrooms, spinach, or bell peppers for a veggie-packed version.
Spicy Kick: Add red pepper flakes or swap regular pepperoni for spicy pepperoni or chorizo.
Cheese Mix: Try adding provolone, cheddar, or asiago to vary the cheesy profile.
Gluten-Free Twist: Use gluten-free tortellini and check the pizza sauce label to make it safe for gluten-sensitive eaters.
Extra Protein: Add cooked Italian sausage or chicken for a meatier casserole.

Cheesy Tortellini Pepperoni Pizza Casserole Recipe

How to Make Cheesy Tortellini Pepperoni Pizza Casserole

Step 1: Preheat and Prep

Set your oven to 375 degrees Fahrenheit. Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with olive oil to prevent sticking and promote golden edges.

Step 2: Cook the Tortellini

Boil cheese tortellini according to package instructions until al dente. Drain well and set aside – this is the tender base for your casserole.

Step 3: Combine Sauce and Seasoning

In a large bowl, mix pizza sauce with garlic powder, onion powder, and Italian seasoning. This blend infuses the tomato sauce with flavor to complement the tortellini and pepperoni.

Step 4: Assemble the Casserole

Add the cooked tortellini to the sauced mixture and toss gently. Transfer half of this mixture into the prepared baking dish, then layer half of the pepperoni slices and half the shredded mozzarella on top. Repeat with the remaining tortellini, pepperoni, and finish with mozzarella and a sprinkle of parmesan cheese.

Step 5: Bake to Perfection

Place the casserole in the oven and bake for 25 to 30 minutes until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and lightly browned around the edges. Let it rest a few minutes before serving for the best texture.

Pro Tips for Making Cheesy Tortellini Pepperoni Pizza Casserole

Don’t Overcook Tortellini: Slightly undercook it during boiling, as it will continue cooking in the oven and absorb flavors.
Layering Matters: Distribute pepperoni and cheese evenly for balanced flavor in every bite.
Use Fresh Cheese: Fresh shredded mozzarella melts better than pre-shredded versions with anti-caking agents.
Rest Before Serving: Letting the dish cool slightly helps it set for cleaner slices and better enjoyment.
Double the Sauce: If you prefer a saucier casserole, increase the pizza sauce amount for extra moisture and tang.

How to Serve Cheesy Tortellini Pepperoni Pizza Casserole

Garnishes

Top your casserole with freshly chopped basil or parsley for a bright, herbal contrast. A drizzle of extra virgin olive oil or a sprinkle of crushed red pepper flakes can add flair and heat.

Side Dishes

This casserole pairs beautifully with a crisp green salad tossed in a light vinaigrette or roasted vegetables like broccoli and cauliflower to balance its richness.

Creative Ways to Present

Serve it in individual ramekins for a personalized touch, or sprinkle extra cheese and pepperoni on top just before serving for a fun, fresh look.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Keep any leftovers covered in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The casserole reheats beautifully without losing flavor or texture.

Freezing

This casserole freezes well! Assemble in a freezer-safe dish, cover tightly with foil and plastic wrap, and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before baking.

Reheating

Reheat leftovers in the oven at 350 degrees Fahrenheit for 15 to 20 minutes until warmed through, or use a microwave for a quick option—just watch for even heating to prevent dryness.

FAQs

Can I use store-bought tortellini for this casserole?

Absolutely! Both fresh and frozen store-bought cheese tortellini work perfectly and save time without sacrificing taste.

Is this recipe suitable for kids?

Yes, the familiar pizza flavors and cheesy pasta are usually a hit with kids of all ages.

What can I substitute for pepperoni?

If you want a meatless dish or aren’t a fan of pepperoni, try sausage, ham, or chopped vegetables like mushrooms and bell peppers.

Can I prepare this dish in advance?

Yes, you can assemble it a day ahead and refrigerate before baking, which actually helps the flavors meld together nicely.

How spicy is the Cheesy Tortellini Pepperoni Pizza Casserole?

This recipe is mild by default, perfect for all palates, but you can easily add heat with red pepper flakes or spicy sausage.

Final Thoughts

If you’re craving comfort food that brings together the best of pasta, cheese, and classic pizza flavors all in one dish, this Cheesy Tortellini Pepperoni Pizza Casserole is a must-try. It’s easy, flexible, and irresistibly delicious—a dinner winner that will have everyone asking for seconds. Give it a go and turn your mealtime into something special and satisfying!

Cheesy Tortellini Pepperoni Pizza Casserole

Author: Anna
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 25-30 minutes
Total Time: 35-40 minutes
Yield: 6 servings 1x
Category: Main Dish
Method: Baking
Cuisine: Italian-American
Diet: Vegetarian option possible (by substituting pepperoni)

Print Recipe

Description

Cheesy Tortellini Pepperoni Pizza Casserole is a quick, crowd-pleasing dinner that combines tender cheese-filled tortellini, zesty pizza sauce, crispy pepperoni, and layers of gooey mozzarella cheese baked to perfection. This hearty casserole is a fun twist on classic pizza flavors, perfect for weeknights or feeding a hungry family with an easy-to-make, flavor-packed, and customizable dish.

Ingredients

Scale

Main Ingredients

1 package (about 9–12 oz) fresh or frozen cheese tortellini
20–30 slices pepperoni
2 cups thick pizza sauce
2 cups shredded fresh mozzarella cheese
1/4 cup grated parmesan cheese

Seasonings & Oils

1 tsp Italian seasoning
1/2 tsp garlic powder
1/2 tsp onion powder
1 tbsp olive oil (for greasing the baking dish)

Instructions

Preheat and Prep: Set your oven to 375 degrees Fahrenheit. Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with olive oil to prevent sticking and promote golden edges.
Cook the Tortellini: Boil cheese tortellini according to package instructions until al dente. Drain well and set aside – this is the tender base for your casserole.
Combine Sauce and Seasoning: In a large bowl, mix pizza sauce with garlic powder, onion powder, and Italian seasoning. This blend infuses the tomato sauce with flavor to complement the tortellini and pepperoni.
Assemble the Casserole: Add the cooked tortellini to the sauced mixture and toss gently. Transfer half of this mixture into the prepared baking dish, then layer half of the pepperoni slices and half the shredded mozzarella on top. Repeat with the remaining tortellini, pepperoni, and finish with mozzarella and a sprinkle of parmesan cheese.
Bake to Perfection: Place the casserole in the oven and bake for 25 to 30 minutes until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and lightly browned around the edges. Let it rest a few minutes before serving for the best texture.

Notes

Don’t overcook tortellini; slightly undercook during boiling as it will continue cooking in the oven and absorb flavors.
Layer pepperoni and cheese evenly for balanced flavor in every bite.
Use fresh shredded mozzarella for better melting and texture.
Let the casserole rest before serving for cleaner slices and improved enjoyment.
If you prefer a saucier casserole, increase the pizza sauce amount.