There’s something magical about turning your favorite comfort foods into one epic dish.
This Cheesy Tortellini Pizza Bake does exactly that—combining saucy pizza flavors with cheesy stuffed pasta for a weeknight dinner that feels indulgent yet effortless.
Why I Love This Recipe
It brings the flavor of pepperoni pizza in a creamy, cheesy pasta bake.
Perfect for feeding a hungry family or guests.
Super adaptable with your favorite toppings.
Comforting, cozy, and fun to make!
What You’ll Need (Ingredient Highlights)
Cheese tortellini: Tender pasta pockets filled with creamy cheese—perfect base for this bake.
Italian sausage & bacon: Savory, meaty layers to mimic your favorite pizza toppings.
Pepperoni: Classic pizza flavor, some mixed in, some on top.
Pizza or marinara sauce: Rich, tomato-based sauce to bind it all.
Mozzarella & Parmesan: Melted cheesy goodness that browns beautifully in the oven.
Optional garnishes: Black olives, bell peppers, or fresh basil for a pizza shop finish.
Pro Tips Before You Start
Don’t overcook the tortellini—they’ll bake more in the oven.
Use fresh mozzarella for extra melt and creaminess.
Want it spicier? Add crushed red pepper flakes to the sauce.
You can prep everything ahead and bake just before serving!
How to Make Cheesy Tortellini Pizza Bake
Step 1. Preheat your oven
Set your oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
Step 2. Cook the tortellini
Boil salted water and cook the tortellini until just al dente.
Drain and set aside.
Step 3. Mix the sauce
In a large bowl, combine the pizza or marinara sauce with cooked sausage, bacon, and half the pepperoni.
Stir well.
Step 4. Layer the bake
Spread a little sauce mixture on the bottom of your baking dish.
Add the cooked tortellini and pour the rest of the sauce mixture over the top.
Step 5. Add cheese & toppings
Sprinkle mozzarella and Parmesan evenly.
Place the remaining pepperoni slices on top like a pizza.
Step 6. Bake
Cover loosely with foil and bake for 20 minutes.
Remove foil and bake another 10–15 minutes until cheese is golden and bubbly.
Step 7. Garnish & serve
Top with optional olives, peppers, or fresh basil.
Serve warm and enjoy every cheesy bite.
What to Serve It With
Garlic bread or cheesy breadsticks
A crisp Caesar or garden salad
A glass of iced tea or red wine for adults
Variations / Substitutions
Swap sausage for ground beef, chicken, or mushrooms.
Use pesto instead of marinara for a green twist.
Try different cheeses like provolone or gouda.
Add spinach, olives, or jalapeños for extra flavor.
Storage & Leftovers
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.
Reheat in the oven at 350°F or in the microwave until warmed through.
This dish also freezes well! Assemble everything, wrap tightly, and freeze before baking.
FAQs
Can I use frozen tortellini?
Yes, just boil them as directed before adding to the bake.
What if I don’t eat pork?
You can use turkey sausage and omit the bacon or sub with turkey bacon.
Can I make this ahead of time?
Absolutely! Assemble the entire dish, cover, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. Then bake as directed.
Is this dish spicy?
No, but you can spice it up with hot sauce, red pepper flakes, or spicy sausage.
What’s the best cheese for this bake?
Mozzarella melts beautifully, but you can also mix in Monterey Jack or Fontina.
Can I make this vegetarian?
Yes! Skip the meat and add mushrooms, zucchini, and spinach instead.
What other sauces can I use?
Alfredo, vodka sauce, or even BBQ sauce make great alternatives for a twist.
Final Thoughts
This Cheesy Tortellini Pizza Bake is my go-to when I want to impress with minimal effort.
It’s hearty, comforting, and packed with flavor.
Whether it’s a cozy night in or a casual dinner party, this dish always gets rave reviews.
Cheesy Tortellini Pizza Bake
Ingredients
- 1 pound 450 g cheese tortellini (fresh or frozen)
- 1/2 pound 225 g Italian sausage, cooked and crumbled
- 1/2 cup cooked and crumbled bacon about 6 strips
- 1 cup pepperoni slices halved
- 2 cups marinara or pizza sauce
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup shredded Parmesan cheese
For Garnish (Optional):
- Sliced black olives
- Diced green bell peppers
- Chopped fresh basil or parsley
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
- Cook tortellini in salted water until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- In a large bowl, mix sauce, sausage, bacon, and half of the pepperoni.
- Spread a little sauce mixture in baking dish.
- Add tortellini. Pour remaining sauce over top.
- Sprinkle mozzarella and Parmesan.
- See full steps with tips & photos → https://mischacrossing.com/cheesy-tortellini-pizza-bake/
Notes
- Use turkey sausage or veggie pepperoni for a lighter version.
- Make it spicy by adding red pepper flakes or jalapeños.
- Can be made ahead and stored in the fridge before baking.
