🍕 Cheese Tortellini Pepperoni Pizza Casserole
🛒 Ingredients (Serves ~6)
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1 lb (450 g) fresh or refrigerated cheese tortellini
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2 cups (500 ml) marinara or pizza sauce
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1 cup diced pepperoni slices (or mini pepperonis)
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2 cups shredded mozzarella or pizza blend
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½ cup grated Parmesan or Romano cheese
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1 tsp Italian seasoning (or dried oregano + basil)
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Optional: ½ tsp red pepper flakes, sliced black olives, diced green bell pepper or mushrooms
🔪 Instructions
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Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch casserole dish.
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Cook the tortellini
Boil according to package instructions until just al dente. Drain and set aside. -
Assemble layers
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Spread half the marinara sauce evenly in the casserole dish.
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Add the cooked tortellini in a single layer.
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Spoon remaining sauce over the tortellini.
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Scatter half of the pepperoni and any optional veggies on top.
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Sprinkle with Italian seasoning and red pepper flakes (if using).
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Add cheese
Top evenly with shredded mozzarella and Parmesan. Cover with remaining pepperoni slices. -
Bake casserole
Cover with foil and bake about 20 minutes.
Remove foil and bake an additional 10–12 minutes, until cheese is melted and bubbly with golden spots. -
Rest & serve
Let rest 5 minutes before serving so it sets slightly. Garnish with fresh basil or parsley, if desired.
👍 Tips & Variations
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Extra veggies: Layer in mushrooms, bell peppers, onions, or spinach for a veggie boost.
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Spicy kick: Use pepperoni with jalapeños, add hot italian sausage, or sprinkle more red pepper flakes.
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Cheesy upgrade: Stir ricotta into the sauce beforehand or add sliced fresh mozzarella for buffalo-style creaminess.
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Protein twist: Add browned sausage, ground beef, or chicken to the sauce.
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Make ahead: Assemble the day before, then bake uncovered for 30–35 minutes (or cover and bake ~25 minutes if leftovers).
🍽️ Serving Suggestions
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Pair with a crisp side salad (Caesar or greens) for contrast.
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Serve with warm garlic bread or cheesy breadsticks for that full pizza-casserole experience.
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Leftovers heat beautifully in the oven (350°F for 10 minutes) or microwave in single portions.
Would you like help with a vegetarian version, gluten-free pasta option, or a side dish pairing to complete this meal?