Description
One Pot Pizza Tortellini Bake
Ingredients
1 package (20 oz) cheese tortellini (refrigerated or frozen)
2 cups marinara or pizza sauce
1 1/2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
1/2 cup sliced pepperoni
1/2 cup sliced black olives
1/2 cup sliced mushrooms
1 tsp Italian seasoning
1 tbsp olive oil
Fresh basil for garnish (optional)
Directions
Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
Cook the tortellini according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
Heat olive oil in a large oven-safe skillet over medium heat. Add mushrooms and cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
Add the cooked tortellini and marinara sauce to the skillet. Stir to coat evenly. Sprinkle Italian seasoning over the mixture.
Top with shredded mozzarella cheese, pepperoni slices, black olives, and any additional pizza toppings you like.
Bake in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Garnish with fresh basil and serve hot with garlic bread!
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes
Servings: 6
Calories: 420 kcal per serving
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Step-by-Step Guide
Follow these detailed instructions for a perfect bake every time. First, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). While it heats, bring a pot of salted water to a boil and cook the tortellini to al dente according to package directions. Drain and set aside. Next, in a large, oven-safe skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the sliced mushrooms and sauté for 3-4 minutes until they release their moisture and soften. Remove the skillet from the heat. Add the drained tortellini and marinara sauce to the skillet, stirring gently to ensure every piece is coated. Evenly sprinkle the Italian seasoning over the mixture. Now, layer on the toppings: first the shredded mozzarella, then the pepperoni, olives, and any other additions. Place the skillet in the preheated oven and bake for 15-20 minutes, until the cheese is fully melted, bubbly, and starting to brown slightly.
Serving Suggestions
This hearty bake is a complete meal on its own, but it pairs wonderfully with simple sides. Serve it directly from the skillet for a rustic, family-style presentation. A crisp green salad with a light vinaigrette cuts through the richness perfectly. For the ultimate comfort food experience, add warm, buttery garlic bread or cheesy breadsticks for dipping. To elevate the dish for guests, garnish with fresh basil or a sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese and a drizzle of high-quality olive oil just before serving.
How-to Summary
In summary, this one-pot meal is a streamlined process: cook tortellini, sauté mushrooms, combine with sauce in an oven-safe skillet, top with cheese and pizza toppings, and bake until golden and bubbly. The entire dish comes together in about 30 minutes with minimal cleanup.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use frozen tortellini without boiling it first?
Yes, you can use frozen tortellini directly. You may need to add a 1/4 cup of water or sauce to the skillet before baking to provide extra moisture for the pasta to cook through.
What other pizza toppings can I use?
This recipe is highly customizable. Try cooked Italian sausage, diced bell peppers, onions, jalapeños, or artichoke hearts. For a meatless version, use a variety of vegetables.
I don’t have an oven-safe skillet. How can I make this?
Simply prepare the mixture in a regular skillet or pot, then transfer it to a greased 9×13 inch baking dish before adding the cheese and toppings and baking.
How should I store and reheat leftovers?
Store cooled leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat individual portions in the microwave or reheat the entire dish, covered with foil, in a 350°F oven until warmed through.
Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?
You can assemble the dish completely (through the topping step) up to a day in advance. Cover and refrigerate, then bake straight from the fridge, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Avoid overcooking the tortellini during the initial boil, as it will continue to cook in the oven. Aim for al dente. Do not skip sautéing the mushrooms; this step removes excess water and concentrates their flavor, preventing a soggy final dish. Ensure your skillet is truly oven-safe (no plastic handles). Finally, resist the urge to overfill the skillet with toppings, as this can prevent even cooking and melting of the cheese.
Conclusion
This One Pot Pizza Tortellini Bake is the ultimate solution for a quick, satisfying, and crowd-pleasing dinner. It masterfully combines the beloved flavors of pizza with the comforting heartiness of pasta, all while keeping cleanup to an absolute minimum. Its versatility allows you to tailor it to your family’s tastes, making it a reliable recipe you’ll return to again and again. Give it a try tonight for a delicious meal that everyone will love.