Pizza Tortellini Casserole – Easy Cheesy Meat Lover’s Delight
If you’re looking for a hearty and comforting meal that the whole family will love, then Meat Lovers Pizza Tortellini is the dish for you! It’s packed with flavor, cheesy goodness, and a meaty mix that will satisfy even the hungriest of eaters. Easy to make and perfect for any occasion, this dish will quickly become a favorite in your household.
Why Make This Recipe
This recipe is perfect for those busy evenings when you want something delicious without spending hours in the kitchen. With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, Meat Lovers Pizza Tortellini makes dinner a breeze. Plus, who can resist the delightful combination of cheese, pasta, and all your favorite pizza toppings? It’s also great for casual get-togethers or cozy family dinners. Trust me, once you try it, you’ll want to make it over and over!
How to Make Meat Lovers Pizza Tortellini
Ingredients:
- 1 lb cheese tortellini (fresh or frozen)
- 1/2 lb Italian sausage, cooked and crumbled
- 1/2 cup cooked and crumbled bacon (about 6 strips)
- 1 cup pepperoni slices, halved
- 2 cups marinara or pizza sauce
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup shredded Parmesan cheese
- Optional garnish: sliced black olives, diced green bell peppers, chopped fresh basil or parsley
Directions:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
- Bring a pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the tortellini according to the package instructions, then drain and set aside.
- In a large bowl, combine the marinara or pizza sauce with the cooked sausage, bacon, and half of the pepperoni.
- Spread a thin layer of sauce on the bottom of the baking dish.
- Add the tortellini, then top with the remaining sauce mixture and toss to coat evenly.
- Sprinkle mozzarella and Parmesan cheese over the top and arrange the rest of the pepperoni slices.
- Cover with foil and bake for 20 minutes.
- Uncover and bake for another 10–15 minutes, until the cheese is bubbly and golden.
- Garnish with olives, peppers, or herbs as desired. Serve hot with garlic bread or a salad.
How to Serve Meat Lovers Pizza Tortellini
Serve your Meat Lovers Pizza Tortellini hot out of the oven. It pairs perfectly with garlic bread and a fresh salad for a complete meal. For an extra special touch, sprinkle some fresh herbs on top before serving!
How to Store Meat Lovers Pizza Tortellini
If you have leftovers (which is rare because it’s so tasty!), let the dish cool completely and then store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh for up to three days. You can reheat it in the microwave or in the oven until it’s hot and bubbly again.
Tips to Make Meat Lovers Pizza Tortellini
- Feel free to mix and match your favorite toppings! Try adding mushrooms, bell peppers, or olives for extra flavors.
- If you want a bit of heat, consider using spicy Italian sausage or sprinkle some red pepper flakes on top before baking.
- For a lighter version, you can use turkey sausage and low-fat cheese.
Variation
You can easily customize this recipe by using different types of cheese or sauces. Try Alfredo sauce for a creamy twist or add some veggies to sneak in extra nutrition.
FAQs
Q: Can I use frozen tortellini?
A: Yes! Frozen tortellini works great. Just follow the package directions for cooking.
Q: How can I make it vegetarian?
A: Simply omit the meat and add more veggies like spinach, mushrooms, and bell peppers for a delicious vegetarian version.
Q: Can I freeze Meat Lovers Pizza Tortellini?
A: Yes! You can freeze it before baking. Cover it tightly with foil or plastic wrap, and bake it directly from frozen, adding extra cooking time as needed.
