Cheese Tortellini Pepperoni Pizza Casserole
This delectable fusion dish, Cheese Tortellini Pepperoni Pizza Casserole, is an effortless yet satisfying meal that marries the iconic flavors of pizza with the richness of pasta. Bursting with cheese-stuffed tortellini, savory pizza sauce, ripe tomatoes, and layers of pepperoni and mozzarella, it’s an ideal choice for a cozy family dinner or a crowd-pleasing potluck. In this guide, we’ll unfold the ingredients, step-by-step process, and culinary secrets to crafting a perfect casserole. We’ll also delve into alternative variations and address common questions to ensure your creation is an unforgettable success.
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Ingredients (Presented in Tabular Format)
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Refrigerated cheese tortellini | 1 (20 oz) package |
| Olive oil | 1 tablespoon |
| Onion (chopped) | 1 medium |
| Garlic (minced) | 2 cloves |
| Pizza sauce | 1 (15 oz) can |
| Diced tomatoes (with juice) | 1 (14.5 oz) can |
| Dried oregano | 1 teaspoon |
| Dried basil | 1 teaspoon |
| Shredded mozzarella cheese | 2 cups |
| Sliced pepperoni | 1 cup |
| Grated Parmesan cheese | 1/2 cup |
| Salt and pepper | To taste |
Instructions
Step 1: Cook the Tortellini
- Boil the Pasta: In a generously salted pot of boiling water, cook the cheese tortellini until they reach the ideal “al dente” texture, as per the package instructions. Drain and set aside.
Step 2: Prepare the Hearty Sauce
- Sauté Aromatics: Warm olive oil in a wide skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onion, cooking until tender—around 5 minutes. Then, introduce the minced garlic, sautéing until its aroma fills the kitchen, about 1-2 minutes.
- Incorporate Sauce and Tomatoes: Pour in the pizza sauce and diced tomatoes (including their juice). Stir in dried oregano and basil, seasoning with salt and pepper as desired. Let the mixture simmer for 10 minutes, allowing the flavors to harmonize.
Step 3: Assemble the Casserole
- Preheat the Oven: Set your oven to 375°F (190°C) to preheat.
- Combine Tortellini and Sauce: In a sizable mixing bowl, toss the cooked tortellini with the rich sauce until they are fully coated.
- Layer the Casserole: In a greased 9×13-inch baking dish, spread half of the tortellini mixture. Layer with half of the mozzarella and pepperoni slices. Repeat this layering with the remaining tortellini, cheese, and pepperoni.
- Top with Parmesan: Sprinkle the grated Parmesan cheese evenly atop the casserole.
Step 4: Bake to Perfection
- Cover and Bake: Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake for 20 minutes. Afterward, remove the foil and continue baking for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese melts into a golden, bubbly blanket, and the casserole is thoroughly heated.
Step 5: Serve and Savor
- Rest: Allow the casserole to cool slightly for a few minutes.
- Garnish and Enjoy: Serve the piping hot casserole, optionally garnished with fresh basil or parsley for an extra burst of flavor.
