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
Scale
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.
