Ah, the Cheese Tortellini Pepperoni Pizza Casserole! This delightful dish is a beautiful marriage of classic Italian comfort food and American pizza flavors. It is perfect for cozy family dinners or friendly gatherings. Who wouldn’t be captivated by the sight of cheesy tortellini swimming in a savory sauce, all topped with delightful pepperoni? It’s a dish that promises smiles around the dinner table.
Making this casserole is not just about feeding the family; it is also about creating moments together. Picture this: you, surrounded by loved ones, ready to enjoy a warm and hearty meal. With each bite, you’ll relish the rich flavors melded together so perfectly. This is a dish that goes beyond mere nourishment—it brings people together.
And let us not forget how easy it is to prepare! With simple steps and widely available ingredients, you can whip up this casserole without spending hours in the kitchen. It allows you to save valuable time while still serving a dish worthy of praise. You will love how it fills your home with irresistible aromas, inviting everyone to the table in anticipation of the delicious feast.
How to Make Cheese Tortellini Pepperoni Pizza Casserole
Ingredients:
16 ounces Cheese Stuffed Tortellini, cooked according to package instructions
2 Garlic Cloves, chopped
1 tablespoon Olive Oil
2 cups Whole Milk
1/2 teaspoon Dry Italian Seasoning
8 ounces Original Velveeta Cheese, cubed
2 cups Shredded Cheese Blend (mozzarella-based)
2 ounces Pepperoni, quartered
1/2 cup Pizza Sauce
Sliced Pepperoni, for topping
1 cup Shredded Mozzarella Cheese
Directions:
Preheat your oven to 375°F.
In a lovely 3-quart pot over medium heat, add your chopped garlic and drizzle in the olive oil. Stir this fragrant mixture constantly for about one minute until it turns golden.
Now, it’s time to add the whole milk and the dry Italian seasoning to the pot. Give it a gentle stir, then allow it to heat until it begins to steam.
Once steaming, reduce the heat a bit. Add the cubed Velveeta cheese and the shredded cheese blend. Stir this beautifully until it melts into a luscious, smooth sauce.
Carefully turn off the heat while keeping the pot on the burner. Toss in the cooked tortellini and the quartered pepperoni. Stir for about a minute to ensure everything is beautifully coated.
Transfer this delightfully cheesy mixture into a prepared casserole dish.
With a dollop, add the pizza sauce on top and gently swirl it into the tortellini—don’t mix it all the way; we want layers of flavor!
Next, artfully layer slices of pepperoni over the sauce, followed by a generous sprinkle of shredded mozzarella cheese.
Bake this wonderful casserole uncovered in the center of your preheated oven for 25 minutes. For a crispy finish, broil on high for an additional 3-4 minutes to achieve that golden brown topping we’re all craving.
How to Serve Cheese Tortellini Pepperoni Pizza Casserole
Serving this casserole is a joy! Once it emerges from the oven, allow it to cool slightly. As you scoop out warm portions onto plates, you will witness ooey-gooey cheese stretching delightfully, creating a tantalizing moment that will bring even more excitement to your table.
Pair it with a simple side salad or some garlic bread for a complete meal. The creamy, cheesy goodness combines wonderfully with fresh greens or crispy bread. Each bite of the casserole, complemented by the sides, will create a taste explosion in your mouth.
And let’s not forget the presentation! Consider serving the casserole in the dish you baked it in, garnished with a sprinkle of Italian herbs or even some fresh basil. It adds a beautiful pop of color, making your dish as stunning as it is delicious. Everyone will be asking for seconds!
Additional Tips:
Feel free to adjust the seasonings to your taste preference. A dash of red pepper flakes can add a lovely heat!
If you prefer a vegetarian option, simply omit the pepperoni and add in some sautéed vegetables instead.
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days, making for wonderful next-day lunches or quick dinners.
Nutrition Facts:
Serving Size: 1 cup
Calories: 450
Total Fat: 25g
Saturated Fat: 13g
Cholesterol: 60mg
Sodium: 800mg
Total Carbohydrates: 40g
Dietary Fiber: 2g
Sugars: 4g
Protein: 20g
FAQ Section
Can I use different types of cheese?
Absolutely! Feel free to mix and match your favorite cheeses. Just ensure they melt well together.
Can I prepare this ahead of time?
Yes, you can assemble the dish a day in advance. Just cover it and keep it in the fridge. When ready, bake it straight from the fridge, adding a little extra time if needed.
What can I substitute for tortellini?
If you can’t find tortellini, you can use other pasta shapes, like macaroni or bowtie pasta, though the cooking times may vary.
Cheese Tortellini Pepperoni Pizza Casserole
Indulge in this delightful dish today and savor every bite! Enjoy a culinary experience that combines comfort and joy, making it a true favorite in every household.
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Cheese Tortellini Pepperoni Pizza Casserole
Ingredients
16 ounces Cheese Stuffed Tortellini, cooked according to package instructions
2 Garlic Cloves, chopped
1 tablespoon Olive Oil
2 cups Whole Milk
1/2 teaspoon Dry Italian Seasoning
8 ounces Original Velveeta Cheese, cubed
2 cups Shredded Cheese Blend (mozzarella-based)
2 ounces Pepperoni, quartered
1/2 cup Pizza Sauce
Sliced Pepperoni, for topping
1 cup Shredded Mozzarella Cheese
Instructions
Preheat your oven to 375°F.
In a lovely 3-quart pot over medium heat, add your chopped garlic and drizzle in the olive oil. Stir this fragrant mixture constantly for about one minute until it turns golden.
Now, it’s time to add the whole milk and the dry Italian seasoning to the pot. Give it a gentle stir, then allow it to heat until it begins to steam.
Once steaming, reduce the heat a bit. Add the cubed Velveeta cheese and the shredded cheese blend. Stir this beautifully until it melts into a luscious, smooth sauce.
Carefully turn off the heat while keeping the pot on the burner. Toss in the cooked tortellini and the quartered pepperoni. Stir for about a minute to ensure everything is beautifully coated.
Transfer this delightfully cheesy mixture into a prepared casserole dish.
With a dollop, add the pizza sauce on top and gently swirl it into the tortellini—don’t mix it all the way; we want layers of flavor!
Next, artfully layer slices of pepperoni over the sauce, followed by a generous sprinkle of shredded mozzarella cheese.
Bake this wonderful casserole uncovered in the center of your preheated oven for 25 minutes. For a crispy finish, broil on high for an additional 3-4 minutes to achieve that golden brown topping we’re all craving.
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