Cheese Tortellini Pepperoni Pizza Casserole
Looking for a comforting family meal? These Cheese Tortellini Pepperoni Pizza Casserole are creamy, cheesy, and packed with flavor. Perfect for dinner, this easy recipe uses simple ingredients you probably already have. Ready in just 30 minutes—let’s make some delicious Cheese Tortellini Pepperoni Pizza Casserole magic!
Why You’ll Love This Cheese Tortellini Pepperoni Pizza Casserole Recipe
This recipe is guaranteed to become a household favorite. Here’s why you’ll keep coming back to it:
Ready in just 30 minutes
Perfect for all ages (kid-friendly!)
Easy to make and eat
Ideal for dinner or a weekend gathering
Made with simple pantry ingredients
Ingredients for Cheese Tortellini Pepperoni Pizza Casserole
Main Ingredients:
16 ounces Cheese Stuffed Tortellini, cooked according to package instructions
2 Garlic Cloves, chopped
1 tablespoon Olive Oil
2 cups Whole Milk
1 teaspoon Dry Italian Seasoning
8 ounces Original Velveeta Cheese, cubed
2 cups Shredded Cheese Blend (mozzarella-based)
2 ounces Pepperoni, quartered
1 cup Pizza Sauce
1 cup Shredded Mozzarella Cheese
Coating/Topping:
Sliced Pepperoni, for topping
Optional Serving Suggestions:
Fresh basil leaves
Parmesan cheese
Step-by-Step Instructions for Making Cheese Tortellini Pepperoni Pizza Casserole
In a medium bowl, whisk together the whole milk and dry Italian seasoning.
In a separate small bowl, combine the cubed Velveeta cheese and shredded cheese blend.
Heat olive oil in a 3-quart pot over medium heat.
Add the chopped garlic to the pot, sautéing until golden and fragrant.
Pour the milk mixture into the pot, stirring until it begins to steam gently.
Lower the heat and add the cheese mixture. Stir until fully melted and smooth.
Next, incorporate the cooked tortellini and quartered pepperoni into the creamy sauce, mixing gently.
Transfer the cheesy tortellini mixture into a casserole dish, spreading it out evenly.
Dollop the pizza sauce on top and gently swirl it in to create a marbled effect.
Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese generously on top, followed by more pepperoni slices.
Bake uncovered for 25 minutes at 375°F, then broil on high for an additional 3-4 minutes until golden and bubbly.
Serve hot and enjoy with your favorite toppings!
Recipe Yield, Prep Time & Nutritional Information
Servings: 6
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 40 minutes
Calories: Approx. 500 kcal per serving
Flavor Variations for Cheese Tortellini Pepperoni Pizza Casserole
Customize this recipe with these tasty variations:
Stuffed Version: Add mozzarella balls in the center before baking.
Seasonal Twist: Replace Italian seasoning with fresh herbs like basil or oregano.
Healthier Option: Substitute whole milk with low-fat milk or non-dairy milk.
Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free tortellini to suit dietary needs.
Savory Twist: Incorporate veggies like spinach or bell peppers for added nutrition.
How to Store and Reheat
Storing: Keep leftovers refrigerated in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
Reheating: Reheat in a toaster oven or skillet to regain the creamy texture. Avoid microwaving for best results.
FAQs About Cheese Tortellini Pepperoni Pizza Casserole
Can I prepare these ahead?
Yes! You can prepare the casserole, cool it, then store it in the refrigerator and reheat before serving.
Which cheese works best?
A blend of mozzarella and cheddar works well for optimal flavor and texture.
Can I bake instead of broiling?
Absolutely! Bake it at 375°F for an additional 10 minutes if you prefer a slower cooking method.
Are these freezer-friendly?
Yes! Freeze the cooked casserole and reheat in an oven straight from frozen.
Can I omit the pizza sauce?
Certainly! Serve plain or with a side of marinara for dipping.
What toppings pair well?
Try fresh basil, a sprinkle of chili flakes, or extra cheese.
Can I reduce the creaminess?
Yes, use reduced-fat cheese or less cheese overall for a lighter version.
Are they kid-friendly?
Absolutely! The cheesy goodness combined with pepperoni is sure to delight their taste buds.
Can I scale the recipe up for a crowd?
Definitely! Simply double or triple the recipe and keep it warm in a low oven for serving.
Final Thoughts on These
These Cheese Tortellini Pepperoni Pizza Casserole bites are simple, tasty, and a definite crowd-pleaser. With their creamy, rich filling, they’re perfect for sharing or enjoying as a comforting meal anytime. Serve with your favorite fresh toppings and watch them disappear from your dinner table. One taste, and this easy recipe will become a regular family favorite!
Cheese Tortellini Pepperoni Pizza Casserole
Equipment
- 3-quart pot
- Casserole Dish
- Mixing Bowl
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 16 ounces Cheese Stuffed Tortellini Cooked according to package instructions
- 2 cloves Garlic Chopped
- 1 tablespoon Olive Oil
- 2 cups Whole Milk
- 1 teaspoon Dry Italian Seasoning
- 8 ounces Original Velveeta Cheese Cubed
- 2 cups Shredded Cheese Blend Mozzarella-based
- 2 ounces Pepperoni Quartered
- 1 cup Pizza Sauce
- 1 cup Shredded Mozzarella Cheese
Coating/Topping
- Sliced Pepperoni For topping
Optional Serving Suggestions
- Fresh basil leaves
- Parmesan cheese
Instructions
- In a medium bowl, whisk together the whole milk and dry Italian seasoning.
- In a separate small bowl, combine the cubed Velveeta cheese and shredded cheese blend.
- Heat olive oil in a 3-quart pot over medium heat.
- Add the chopped garlic to the pot, sautéing until golden and fragrant.
- Pour the milk mixture into the pot, stirring until it begins to steam gently.
- Lower the heat and add the cheese mixture. Stir until fully melted and smooth.
- Next, incorporate the cooked tortellini and quartered pepperoni into the creamy sauce, mixing gently.
- Transfer the cheesy tortellini mixture into a casserole dish, spreading it out evenly.
- Dollop the pizza sauce on top and gently swirl it in to create a marbled effect.
- Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese generously on top, followed by more pepperoni slices.
- Bake uncovered for 25 minutes at 375°F, then broil on high for an additional 3-4 minutes until golden and bubbly.
- Serve hot and enjoy with your favorite toppings!
