Craving the comforting flavors of pizza and pasta in one dish? Look no further than the Cheese Tortellini Pepperoni Pizza Casserole—a delightful fusion that combines cheese-stuffed tortellini, savory pepperoni, and rich pizza sauce, all baked to perfection. This casserole is not only easy to prepare but also a guaranteed crowd-pleaser, making it an ideal choice for family dinners, potlucks, or any occasion that calls for hearty comfort food.Recipes Fiber+2Recipes Fiber+2Recipes by Clare+2
Ingredients
To serve approximately 6 people, gather the following:
- 16 ounces cheese-stuffed tortellini
- 2 garlic cloves, chopped
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 2 cups whole milk
- ½ teaspoon dry Italian seasoning
- 8 ounces Velveeta cheese, cubed
- 2 cups shredded cheese blend (preferably mozzarella-based)
- 2 ounces pepperoni, quartered
- ½ cup pizza sauce
- Sliced pepperoni for topping
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheeseFacebook+1Recipes by Clare+1InesKohl Kitchen+5WonkyWonderful+5Recipes Fiber+5Recipes by Clare+1WonkyWonderful+1
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Set your oven to 375°F (190°C) and lightly grease a 9×13-inch casserole dish.Recipes Fiber+1Recipes by Clare+1
- Cook the Tortellini: Boil the tortellini according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.Recipes by Clare+1Recipes Fiber+1
- Prepare the Cheese Sauce:
- In a large saucepan, heat olive oil over medium heat.
- Add chopped garlic and sauté until fragrant, about 1 minute.
- Pour in the milk and add Italian seasoning. Heat until the milk is steaming but not boiling.
- Reduce heat to low, then add cubed Velveeta and the shredded cheese blend. Stir continuously until the cheese has melted and the sauce is smooth.InesKohl KitchenRecipes by Clare+1WonkyWonderful+1
- Combine Ingredients:
- Add the cooked tortellini and quartered pepperoni to the cheese sauce. Stir gently to coat the pasta evenly.
- Transfer the mixture into the prepared casserole dish, spreading it out evenly.Recipes by Clare+1WonkyWonderful+1WonkyWonderful+2Recipes Fiber+2Recipes by Clare+2
- Add Toppings:
- Spoon the pizza sauce over the tortellini mixture, swirling it in slightly without fully mixing.
- Arrange sliced pepperoni on top, then sprinkle with shredded mozzarella cheese.WonkyWonderful
- Bake:
- Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake uncovered for 25 minutes.
- For a golden-brown top, broil on high for an additional 3-4 minutes, keeping a close eye to prevent burning.WonkyWonderful
- Serve: Allow the casserole to cool for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy the melty, cheesy goodness!Pillsbury.com+2Recipes Fiber+2middleeastsector+2
Customization Tips
- Vegetarian Version: Omit the pepperoni and add vegetables like mushrooms, bell peppers, or olives.
- Spicy Kick: Incorporate red pepper flakes or use spicy pepperoni for added heat.
- Different Meats: Swap pepperoni for cooked sausage, ground beef, or diced chicken to vary the flavor.middleeastsector+1Recipes Fiber+1
Serving Suggestions
Pair this casserole with a crisp green salad dressed with vinaigrette to balance the richness. Garlic bread or breadsticks make excellent accompaniments, perfect for sopping up any leftover sauce.Recipes Fiber
Storage and Reheating
- Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Freezing: Freeze the casserole in a freezer-safe dish for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
- Reheating: Warm in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through, or microwave individual portions as needed.
Conclusion
The Cheese Tortellini Pepperoni Pizza Casserole is a delightful blend of two beloved comfort foods, offering a cheesy, hearty meal that’s sure to satisfy. Its versatility allows for various customizations, making it a go-to recipe for any occasion. Whether you’re feeding a family or entertaining guests, this casserole is bound to impress