Name: Cheese Tortellini Pepperoni Pizza Casserole
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Ingredients: 12 oz cheese-filled tortellini (dry or refrigerated, cooked al dente according to package instructions); 1 cup pepperoni slices (regular or mini, no further prep required); 1 cup pizza sauce (room temperature or warmed slightly for easier mixing); 1 cup heavy cream (cold or room temperature); 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese (fresh or pre-shredded); 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese (finely grated); 1/2 teaspoon Italian seasoning (or a mix of dried oregano and basil); 1/4 teaspoon salt (to taste, start with this amount and adjust after mixing); pepper (to taste, freshly ground preferred); 1 teaspoon olive oil (for greasing the baking dish)

Jump to Recipe

Creamy, cheesy, and loaded with pepperoni, Cheese Tortellini Pepperoni Pizza Casserole is the ultimate weeknight comfort meal that feels like pizza and pasta had a delicious baby. If you love gooey mozzarella, tender cheese-filled tortellini, and that irresistible pizza flavor, this casserole delivers in under an hour with minimal fuss. Fun fact: casseroles were originally popularized as convenient one-dish meals for busy families—perfect for stretching a few ingredients into a crowd-pleasing dinner.

This recipe stands out because it’s simple to assemble, kid-approved, and perfect for busy nights. If you enjoy recipes that save time without skimping on flavor, check out a similar spin on this theme at our cheese tortellini pepperoni pizza casserole for another take. Get your baking dish ready—this is one casserole you’ll want to make again and again.

What is Cheese Tortellini Pepperoni Pizza Casserole?

What’s in a name? Cheese Tortellini Pepperoni Pizza Casserole sounds like a mouthful because it is—literally and figuratively. Is it pizza? Is it pasta? Why not both? This playful mash-up layers cheese-filled tortellini with pizza sauce and pepperoni to create a cozy, oven-baked dish that tastes like pizza night in casserole form. Who named it? Maybe an overworked parent who needed dinner on the table fast.

They say “the way to a man’s heart is through his stomach,” and honestly, the same could be said for anyone who loves comfort food. Curious yet? Give it a try and see why this hybrid becomes a fast favorite.

Why You’ll Love This

Creamy, melty center: The cheese-filled tortellini plus shredded mozzarella and grated Parmesan create a lush, creamy texture that stretches with every forkful.
Budget-friendly and filling: Using packaged tortellini and pantry staples like pizza sauce and pepperoni makes this an economical meal that feeds a family without fuss.
Pizza flavor with less effort: All your favorite pizza toppings and seasonings are present, but you skip the dough trouble and get a bubbly, golden-topped casserole instead.

Compared to a classic baked ziti or lasagna, this dish cooks faster and needs fewer steps, making it ideal for weeknights. If you loved our hearty casserole recipes like broccoli rice, cheese, and chicken casserole, this one hits the same cozy notes with a pizza twist. Ready to make it? Let’s go.

How to Make

Quick Overview

This recipe is straightforward: cook the tortellini, mix with sauce, cream, cheeses, pepperoni, and seasonings, then bake until bubbly and golden. It’s quick to prepare, creamy in the middle, and slightly crispy on top where the cheese browns. Prep time is about 15 minutes and baking takes 25 to 30 minutes, so plan for roughly 45 minutes total from start to finish.

Ingredients

12 oz cheese-filled tortellini, dry or refrigerated, cooked al dente according to package instructions
1 cup pepperoni slices, regular or mini, no further prep required
1 cup pizza sauce, room temperature or warmed slightly for easier mixing
1 cup heavy cream, cold or room temperature
1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese, fresh or pre-shredded
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese, finely grated
1/2 teaspoon Italian seasoning, or a mix of dried oregano and basil
Salt to taste, start with 1/4 teaspoon and adjust after mixing
Pepper to taste, freshly ground preferred
Olive oil for greasing the baking dish, about 1 teaspoon

Directions

Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a baking dish with olive oil.
Cook the tortellini according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
In a large bowl, combine the cooked tortellini, pepperoni, pizza sauce, heavy cream, mozzarella cheese, Parmesan cheese, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Mix gently to coat everything evenly.
Pour the mixture into the prepared baking dish, spreading it into an even layer. If you like extra pepperoni on top, reserve a few slices to arrange over the casserole.
Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until bubbly and golden on top. The cheese should be melted and slightly browned at the edges.
Let cool for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy!

Cheese Tortellini Pepperoni Pizza Casserole

What to Serve With

Simple green salad: A crisp romaine or mixed greens salad with a light vinaigrette balances the richness.
Roasted vegetables: Broccoli, zucchini, or bell peppers roasted with olive oil and garlic complement the cheesy casserole.
Garlic bread or breadsticks: For extra pizza vibes, serve with toasted garlic bread to sop up sauce.
Pickled peppers or a tangy slaw: Acidic sides cut through the creaminess and refresh the palate.
Beverages: Pair with a light red wine like Chianti or a cold soda for kid-friendly dinners.

Top Tips for Perfecting

Swap and customize: Use turkey pepperoni, add sliced mushrooms, or fold in sautéed spinach for more veggies.
Cheese choices: Freshly shredded mozzarella melts better than pre-shredded blends that contain anti-caking agents. A bit of provolone can add depth.
Don’t overcook tortellini: Aim for al dente, since it will finish cooking in the oven. Overcooked tortellini becomes mushy.
Make ahead: Assemble the casserole, cover, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking—add a few extra minutes to baking time if chilled.
Watch salt levels: Parmesan and pepperoni add salt; taste before adding extra salt to avoid over-seasoning.

Storing and Reheating Tips

Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3-4 days. Reheat portions in the microwave or oven until warmed through.
Freezing: Freeze assembled but unbaked for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before baking, and add 10-15 minutes to the bake time.
Best reheating methods: For smaller portions, microwave on medium power until hot. For a crisp top, reheat in a 350°F oven for 15-20 minutes covered with foil, then uncover for the last 5 minutes.
Texture check: If the casserole dries out when reheating, stir in a tablespoon of cream or milk before warming to restore creaminess.

FAQs

Can I use frozen tortellini instead of dried?
Yes. Frozen tortellini works well—just follow package instructions for cooking time and proceed with the recipe. No need to thaw before boiling.

Can I make this vegetarian?
Absolutely. Replace the pepperoni with sliced olives, mushrooms, artichoke hearts, or roasted vegetables for a flavorful meatless version.

Is heavy cream necessary?
Heavy cream gives the casserole a rich, silky texture, but you can substitute half-and-half for a lighter version. The sauce will be slightly less rich but still tasty.

How do I prevent the top from burning?
If the cheese browns too quickly, tent the casserole loosely with foil for the first 20 minutes, then remove the foil to allow browning for the last 5-10 minutes.

Can I double this recipe for a crowd?
Yes. Use a larger baking dish or two standard dishes. Keep the same temperature but increase the bake time by 10-15 minutes and check for bubbling in the center.

Conclusion

This Cheese Tortellini Pepperoni Pizza Casserole is proof that comforting, family-friendly dinners don’t have to be complicated. With a short prep time, pantry-friendly ingredients, and pizza-perfect flavors, it’s an easy weeknight winner that’s sure to become a repeat favorite. If you like exploring similar recipes, you might enjoy the baked pizza tortellini variation over at Baked Pizza Tortellini – Southern Bite for another spin, or compare notes with the original inspiration at Cheese Tortellini Pepperoni Pizza Casserole – WonkyWonderful. Give it a try, invite the family, and share the leftovers—or not!