Description
A hearty and indulgent pasta dish that combines all the flavors of a classic meat lover’s pizza — pepperoni, sausage, and bacon — tossed with cheese-filled tortellini and marinara sauce, then baked with gooey melted cheese on top.
Ingredients
- 1 (9-ounce) package refrigerated cheese tortellini
- ½ pound Italian sausage, casings removed
- ½ cup chopped pepperoni
- 4 slices bacon, cooked and crumbled
- 1 small onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 (24-ounce) jar marinara or pizza sauce
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- ¼ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- ½ cup shredded cheddar or provolone cheese
- ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tablespoons sliced black olives (optional)
- Chopped fresh basil or parsley, for garnish
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
- Cook tortellini according to package directions until just al dente. Drain and set aside.
- In a large skillet, cook Italian sausage over medium heat until browned. Add onion and cook for 3–4 minutes until softened. Stir in garlic and cook another 30 seconds.
- Drain excess fat, then stir in marinara sauce, Italian seasoning, red pepper flakes, chopped pepperoni, and crumbled bacon. Simmer for 5 minutes to blend flavors.
- Add the cooked tortellini to the sauce mixture and toss to coat evenly.
- Pour mixture into the prepared baking dish. Sprinkle mozzarella, cheddar (or provolone), and Parmesan cheese evenly over the top. Add black olives if using.
- Bake uncovered for 20–25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Broil for 1–2 minutes for a golden-brown cheesy crust. Garnish with fresh basil or parsley before serving.
Notes
- Use mini pepperoni or chop larger slices for easier bites.
- For extra flavor, drizzle with garlic butter or add a pinch of smoked paprika before baking.
- This recipe can be prepped ahead — assemble, refrigerate, and bake when ready to serve.
- Pairs perfectly with a side salad or garlic bread for a complete meal.
- Prep Time: 10 mins
- Cook Time: 25 mins
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baked
- Cuisine: Italian-American