There is something incredibly comforting about combining Italian-inspired flavors into one hearty, cheesy dish, and the Supreme Pizza Tortellini Bake Recipe delivers just that in every bite. This recipe takes tender cheese tortellini and layers it with savory Italian sausage, spicy pepperoni, vibrant bell peppers, and a rich tomato sauce seasoned perfectly with oregano and basil. Topped with melted mozzarella and Parmesan cheeses, baked until bubbly and golden, this dish is an absolute crowd-pleaser. Whether you’re feeding family or friends, this Supreme Pizza Tortellini Bake Recipe turns simple ingredients into a warm, satisfying meal that feels like a celebration of all your favorite pizza toppings in a cozy pasta bake.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This recipe shines because of its straightforward, yet vibrant ingredients. Each element plays an essential role, from the tender cheese tortellini that brings a creamy texture to the dish, to the robust spices and fresh veggies that add layers of flavor and color.
- 1 lb cheese tortellini: Choose fresh or frozen for a soft, pillowy base that soaks up the sauce beautifully.
- 1 tablespoon olive oil: Helps brown the sausage and sauté the vegetables for a rich foundation.
- 1/2 lb Italian sausage, crumbled: Adds savory depth and a touch of spice to the dish.
- 1/2 cup sliced pepperoni: Classic pizza flavor that gives smoky, slightly spicy bites throughout.
- 1/2 red bell pepper, diced: Brings sweetness and vibrant color to brighten the casserole.
- 1/2 green bell pepper, diced: Adds crunch and a slight bitterness for balance.
- 1 small onion, diced: Builds the aromatic foundation, sweetening as it cooks.
- 2 cloves garlic, minced: Infuses the dish with its signature warm, savory note.
- 1 (14.5 oz) can crushed tomatoes: Creates the hearty, tangy sauce base.
- 1/2 cup pizza sauce: Intensifies the tomato flavor with classic pizza herbs and spices.
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano: The quintessential Italian herb that lifts the sauce.
- 1/2 teaspoon dried basil: Adds sweet, fragrant notes that complement the tomato perfectly.
- 1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional): For those who like a little heat to balance the richness.
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese: Melts creamy and stringy, making every bite irresistible.
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese: Adds sharp, nutty flavor in the cheesy topping.
- Fresh basil or parsley for garnish (optional): A fresh, green pop to finish the dish beautifully.
How to Make Supreme Pizza Tortellini Bake Recipe
Step 1: Preparing the Tortellini
Start by cooking the cheese tortellini according to the package instructions. This ensures the tender pasta is perfectly al dente and ready to soak up all the flavors in the sauce. Once cooked, drain well and set aside—this simple step is the foundation for your delicious bake.
Step 2: Browning the Sausage
Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat before adding the crumbled Italian sausage. Cook it until it’s browned and fragrant, breaking it apart as it cooks to ensure every bite has that savory, meaty goodness. Removing any excess grease keeps the dish from becoming too oily, giving you a more balanced flavor.
Step 3: Sautéing the Vegetables
Next, toss in the diced red and green bell peppers, onion, and minced garlic. Cooking these just until they soften—about 3 to 4 minutes—helps release their natural sweetness and aroma, adding wonderful texture and vibrant color that brighten your Supreme Pizza Tortellini Bake Recipe.
Step 4: Building the Sauce
Pour in the crushed tomatoes and pizza sauce, then sprinkle in the dried oregano, basil, and crushed red pepper flakes if you want a little kick. Simmer this flavorful mixture for 5 to 7 minutes, stirring occasionally to blend the herbs and spices fully and deepen the sauce’s rich, tomatoey goodness.
Step 5: Combining Tortellini and Sauce
Stir the cooked tortellini directly into the sauce, ensuring every piece is coated with that thick, herby tomato goodness. Then transfer the entire mixture to your prepared baking dish—the flavorful heart of your Supreme Pizza Tortellini Bake Recipe is now ready to be topped with cheese and baked.
Step 6: Adding Cheese and Baking
Generously sprinkle shredded mozzarella and grated Parmesan over the tortellini mixture. The mozzarella melts into ooey-gooey perfection while the Parmesan adds a lovely salty, nutty crust. Bake the dish in your preheated oven at 375°F for 20 to 25 minutes, or until the cheese has melted and is beautifully bubbly—this golden, cheesy topping is the crowning glory.
Step 7: Garnishing and Serving
Once out of the oven, garnish the dish with fresh basil or parsley for a burst of color and bright herbal notes. Serve it hot, and watch everyone eagerly dig in, hungry for that perfect combination of spicy, cheesy, and comforting flavors that make the Supreme Pizza Tortellini Bake Recipe so amazing.
How to Serve Supreme Pizza Tortellini Bake Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh herbs like basil or parsley are perfect garnishes because they add vibrant color and a subtle fresh flavor contrast to the richness of the bake. You can also sprinkle a pinch of extra Parmesan or drizzle a little olive oil on top for a luscious finish. These little touches elevate the dish from comforting to gourmet.
Side Dishes
Pairing your Supreme Pizza Tortellini Bake Recipe with a crisp green salad or roasted vegetables balances the richness with refreshing crunch and earthy flavors. Garlic bread or warm dinner rolls are also fantastic for soaking up any leftover sauce, turning your meal into a full, satisfying experience that everyone will love.
Creative Ways to Present
Serve this dish family-style directly from the baking pan for a cozy, communal meal. For a special touch, dish it into individual ramekins and sprinkle fresh herbs on top. You can also add a side of pickled peppers or olives to bring in a tangy bite that complements all the baked cheesy goodness.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
After enjoying your Supreme Pizza Tortellini Bake Recipe, let the leftovers cool completely before transferring them to an airtight container. Stored in the refrigerator, they will stay fresh for about 3 to 4 days, making delicious next-day meals or easy reheats for busy evenings.
Freezing
This dish freezes beautifully! To freeze, cool it completely and place portions or the whole bake in a freezer-safe container. It can be frozen for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the fridge for the best texture before reheating.
Reheating
Reheat your leftovers in the oven at 350°F until warm and bubbly, usually about 15-20 minutes, to preserve that crispy cheese topping. Alternatively, microwave portions covered loosely with a damp paper towel for a quicker option, though the cheese won’t remain as crusty.
FAQs
Can I use other types of tortellini for this recipe?
Absolutely! While cheese tortellini works best for its creamy texture, you can swap in meat or spinach tortellini if you want a different flavor profile. Just be mindful of cooking times based on the package instructions.
Is it possible to make this recipe vegetarian?
Yes, simply omit the Italian sausage and pepperoni, and consider adding mushrooms or extra bell peppers for heartiness. You can also use a plant-based sausage alternative to keep that meaty flavor without using meat.
Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?
You can definitely assemble the baking dish a few hours before baking, then refrigerate it. When ready, just pop it into the oven. This tip is perfect for busy days or when entertaining guests.
What if I don’t have pizza sauce on hand?
No worries! You can substitute with extra crushed tomatoes seasoned with some Italian herbs and a pinch of sugar to balance acidity. This DIY sauce works well in a pinch.
How spicy is this dish?
The crushed red pepper flakes add a mild heat that you can adjust to taste. Leave them out if you prefer a milder dish, or add more if you like a spicy kick that contrasts nicely with the creamy cheeses.
Final Thoughts
If you’re looking to wow family and friends with a meal that’s both simple and impressive, the Supreme Pizza Tortellini Bake Recipe is your go-to. It’s packed with all the flavors you love from pizza, combined with comforting pasta and loads of melty cheese. Give it a try soon, and savor how easy ingredients turn into something unforgettable.
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Supreme Pizza Tortellini Bake Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian-American
Description
Enjoy a hearty Supreme Pizza Tortellini Bake featuring tender cheese tortellini mixed with flavorful Italian sausage, pepperoni, and a rich tomato sauce. Topped with melted mozzarella and Parmesan cheese, this baked pasta dish combines the best elements of pizza and comfort food for a delicious, crowd-pleasing meal.
Ingredients
Pasta & Meat
- 1 lb cheese tortellini
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1/2 lb Italian sausage, crumbled
- 1/2 cup sliced pepperoni
Vegetables & Aromatics
- 1/2 red bell pepper, diced
- 1/2 green bell pepper, diced
- 1 small onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
Sauces & Seasonings
- 1 (14.5 oz) can crushed tomatoes
- 1/2 cup pizza sauce
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon dried basil
- 1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
Cheese & Garnish
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Fresh basil or parsley for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat and Prepare: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish to prevent sticking and to prepare for baking later.
- Cook Tortellini: Cook the cheese tortellini according to the package instructions until al dente. Once cooked, drain well and set aside to be combined later.
- Cook Sausage: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the crumbled Italian sausage and cook until browned, breaking it apart with a spoon. Drain any excess grease from the skillet to keep the dish from becoming greasy.
- Sauté Vegetables: Add the diced red and green bell peppers, onion, and minced garlic to the skillet with the sausage. Cook for 3-4 minutes or until the vegetables are softened and fragrant.
- Simmer Sauce: Stir in the crushed tomatoes, pizza sauce, dried oregano, dried basil, and crushed red pepper flakes if using. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer and cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally to let the flavors meld.
- Combine Tortellini and Sauce: Add the cooked tortellini into the skillet with the sauce and sausage mixture. Stir well to ensure the pasta is fully coated and evenly mixed.
- Assemble in Baking Dish: Transfer the tortellini and sauce mixture into the prepared baking dish. Spread evenly for uniform baking and topping coverage.
- Add Cheese Toppings: Sprinkle shredded mozzarella evenly over the top of the casserole, followed by grated Parmesan cheese to enhance flavor and create a golden crust.
- Bake: Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes or until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and lightly golden on top.
- Garnish and Serve: Remove from the oven and garnish with fresh basil or parsley if desired. Serve hot for a comforting and flavorful meal experience.
Notes
- You can substitute turkey sausage for a leaner option.
- For a vegetarian version, omit the sausage and pepperoni and add mushrooms, olives, or zucchini.
- If you prefer a spicier dish, increase the crushed red pepper flakes or add a pinch of cayenne pepper.
- Leftovers keep well refrigerated for up to 3 days and can be reheated in the oven or microwave.
- Use fresh herbs for garnish to add vibrant color and flavor.
