Meat Lovers Pizza Tortellini

This Meat Lovers Pizza Tortellini is pure comfort food heaven with everything you love about a classic meat-loaded pizza stirred into cheesy baked pasta. Twisty cheese tortellini, colorful marinara sauce, plenty of melty topping, and layers of sausage, bacon, and pepperoni bring big flavors to the table. It is ideal for busy nights or whenever you want something guaranteed to make everyone smile.

My family first tried this on a Sunday when we could not decide between pizza and pasta. Now it is our go to request for movie nights or potlucks because there is never a bite left in the pan.

Ingredients

• Cheese tortellini: Fresh or frozen both work Choose plump ones with a smooth cheese filling for best results
• Italian sausage: Adds bold savory flavor Look for fresh sausage with high quality herbs and lots of fennel
• Cooked bacon: Smoky and salty adds real pizza shop depth Use thick cut for more texture
• Pepperoni slices: Delivers classic spicy tang Try mini or thick cut for extra kick
• Marinara or pizza sauce: Tangy and bright brings the whole dish together Go for a robust jarred brand or your own simmered sauce
• Shredded mozzarella: Melts for that classic gooey top Always use whole milk mozzarella for stretchy cheese pulls
• Shredded Parmesan: Lends sharpness and a golden top Shred your own for real Italian flavor
• Optional garnish: Black olives tangy pop Green bell peppers fresh crunch Basil or parsley freshness and color

Step-by-Step Instructions

Prep the Oven:

Set your oven to 375 degrees Fahrenheit and grease a large casserole or baking dish so nothing sticks and you get those delicious crispy edges

Cook the Tortellini:

Bring salted water to a rolling boil then cook the tortellini just until they float and are tender but not mushy Drain well to avoid watery sauce

Mix the Sauce:

In a big bowl stir together marinara or pizza sauce with cooked sausage crumbled bacon and half the pepperoni mixing until the meats are evenly coated

Assemble Layers:

Begin by spreading a little sauce mix on the bottom of the baking dish Then add the cooked tortellini Pour the rest of the sauce mixture on top making sure every tortellini gets some Then finish with a full layer of mozzarella Parmesan and the rest of the pepperoni tucked over the cheese for that pizza shop look

Bake it Up:

Cover the dish lightly with foil so the cheese melts without browning too soon Bake for 20 minutes Pull off the foil and continue baking another 10 to 15 minutes until the cheese is bubbling and golden

Garnish and Serve:

When it is hot and ready sprinkle with black olives diced peppers or a shower of fresh basil or parsley Slice and serve right away with garlic bread or a crisp salad

Save This

Every time I add fresh basil from my summer garden the aroma fills the kitchen and takes me right back to laughing around the table with my kids Their favorite part is always fighting over the cheesiest corner pieces

Storage Tips

Keep leftovers tightly covered in the fridge for up to three days It reheats well in a microwave or can be baked again at 350 degrees until warmed through To freeze portion into smaller containers and thaw overnight in the fridge for weeknight dinners

Ingredient Substitutions

Feel free to swap the pork sausage with turkey chicken or plant based crumbles for your own spin on the meat blend Use any pizza cheese blends or toss in extra veggies like mushrooms or onions for even more flavor variety

Serving Suggestions

Pair this dish with buttery garlic knots a simple green salad dressed with olive oil or a side of roasted broccoli For hearty appetites add a small cup of tomato soup or a crunchy Caesar salad

Cultural Context

This cozy bake is a playful twist on two Italian American classics marrying the love of pizza toppings with the ease and family feel of baked pasta dishes It is a real celebration of comfort food and was first dreamed up among the Italian communities in the United States who wanted to stretch simple ingredients for gatherings

Common Queries

→ Can I use frozen tortellini for this dish?

Yes, both fresh and frozen cheese tortellini work well. Just cook according to package instructions before assembling.

→ What other toppings can I include?

Try adding mushrooms, onions, bell peppers, or black olives for extra flavor. Customize with your favorite pizza toppings.

→ How do I reheat leftovers?

Reheat in the oven at 350°F until warmed through, or heat individual portions in the microwave. Cover to keep the cheese moist.

→ Can I make this dish ahead of time?

You can assemble the dish up to a day in advance. Cover and refrigerate, then bake when ready to serve, adding extra time if chilled.

→ Is there a vegetarian option?

Omit the meats and add vegetables like spinach, mushrooms, and peppers for a delicious vegetarian variation.