Meat Lovers Pizza Tortellini

If you’re torn between ordering a meat lover’s pizza and making a hearty pasta dish, this Meat Lovers Pizza Tortellini brings both worlds together in one irresistible bake. With cheese-filled tortellini tossed in zesty pizza sauce, layered with savory meats and gooey melted cheese, this dish is bold, comforting, and packed with your favorite pizza flavors.

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Two Favorites in One – The best parts of pizza and pasta in one easy dish.
Family Favorite – Loaded with flavor and a guaranteed hit at the dinner table.
Easy Weeknight Dinner – Just boil, mix, and bake.
Customizable – Use your favorite meats or veggies.
Freezer-Friendly – Bake now or freeze for a future meal.

Ingredients You’ll Need

• 1 (20 oz) package cheese tortellini (fresh or frozen)
• 1½ cups pizza sauce or marinara sauce
• ½ cup cooked beef sausage, crumbled or sliced
• ½ cup cooked ground beef
• ½ cup turkey pepperoni slices
• 1½ cups shredded mozzarella cheese
• ¼ cup grated parmesan cheese
• 1 tsp dried oregano
• ½ tsp garlic powder
• ½ tsp onion powder
• ¼ tsp crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
• 1 tbsp chopped fresh basil or parsley (for garnish)
• Olive oil or nonstick spray for greasing

Tools You’ll Need
• Large pot (for boiling tortellini)
• Skillet (for cooking meat)
• 9×13-inch baking dish
• Mixing bowl
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Spatula or wooden spoon
• Oven

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with olive oil or cooking spray.

Step 2: Cook the Tortellini
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
Cook the cheese tortellini according to the package directions, but reduce cook time by 1–2 minutes since it will bake.
Drain and set aside.

Step 3: Cook the Meats
In a skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef until browned and no longer pink.
Add the cooked sausage and stir for a minute to warm through.
Drain any excess grease.

Step 4: Combine the Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, add the cooked tortellini, pizza sauce, ground beef, sausage, and half of the mozzarella cheese.
Add oregano, garlic powder, onion powder, and red pepper flakes if using.
Stir everything together until well combined.

Step 5: Assemble the Dish
Pour the mixture into the prepared baking dish.
Top with the remaining mozzarella cheese, sprinkle with parmesan, and layer turkey pepperoni slices on top like a pizza.

Step 6: Bake Until Bubbly
Bake for 20–25 minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
For extra crisp edges, broil for 2–3 minutes at the end—watch closely to avoid burning.

Step 7: Garnish & Serve
Remove from oven and sprinkle with fresh basil or parsley.
Let rest for 5 minutes before serving.

Tips for the Best Pizza Tortellini Bake
Don’t Overcook the Tortellini – Slightly undercooking it prevents mushy pasta.
Use Bold Meats – Spicy sausage and pepperoni add real “meat lovers” flavor.
Add Veggies – Bell peppers, mushrooms, or black olives make great add-ins.
Make It Spicy – Add jalapeños or a drizzle of hot sauce before serving.
Use Quality Sauce – A good pizza or marinara sauce makes a big difference.

Serving Suggestions
With Garlic Bread – Perfect for mopping up the sauce.
Side Salad – A fresh green salad balances the richness.
Appetizer Night – Serve alongside mozzarella sticks and veggie sticks for a fun family meal.
Game Day Food – A crowd-pleasing option for casual get-togethers.
Leftover Lunch – Packs well for reheating the next day.

How to Store & Reheat

Storing:
Refrigerator: Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
Freezer: Freeze portions or the whole dish tightly wrapped for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight before reheating.

Reheating:
Oven: Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 15–20 minutes until hot.
Microwave: Reheat individual portions in 60-second bursts until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use frozen tortellini?
   Yes! Just cook slightly less than the package instructions and drain well.
2. What kind of sausage works best?
   Beef sausage with a mild or spicy flavor works great in this recipe.
3. Can I make this vegetarian?
   Absolutely—just skip the meat and add mushrooms, spinach, and extra cheese.
4. Can I prepare this ahead of time?
   Yes! Assemble the dish, cover tightly, and refrigerate up to 24 hours before baking.
5. Can I use different cheeses?
   Definitely—try provolone, fontina, or a smoky gouda for a fun twist.

Final Thoughts
Meat Lovers Pizza Tortellini is comfort food at its finest—a saucy, cheesy, meaty pasta bake that brings pizza night to a whole new level. It’s hearty, delicious, and made with ingredients you already love. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or just want amazing leftovers, this dish is sure to satisfy every time.

Give it a try this week and let us know how you made it your own. Don’t forget to rate and share your delicious results—we can’t wait to see your version!

Preparation Time: 15 minutes
Cooking Time: 25 minutes
Cuisine: American-Italian

Nutritional Information (Per Serving):
Calories: 410 | Protein: 22g | Carbohydrates: 32g | Fat: 24g | Fiber: 3g | Sodium: 690mg

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