It's a three-peat! Making this dish for the third time this week

On those brisk evenings when the wind howls around the corners of our old farmhouse, there's nothing quite like a hearty dinner to warm the soul. That's where my Cheese Tortellini Pepperoni Pizza Casserole comes into play — a delightful twist combining the cozy familiarity of pizza with the heartiness of a pasta bake. This dish is a nod to our beloved Midwestern potlucks, where each casserole dish tells a story of family and community. It’s perfect for gathering around the table, sharing stories, and creating memories.

This hearty casserole pairs beautifully with a crisp garden salad dressed with a zesty Italian or balsamic vinaigrette and some warm garlic bread to sop up the delicious sauce. For a lighter touch, consider steamed green beans or a roasted vegetable medley. Don't forget to round off the meal with a lemon sorbet or a slice of apple pie for dessert!

Servings: 8

1 (20 ounce) package of refrigerated cheese tortellini
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 medium onion, chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 (15 ounce) can pizza sauce
1 (14.5 ounce) can diced tomatoes
1 teaspoon dried oregano
1 teaspoon dried basil
2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
1 cup sliced pepperoni
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Salt and pepper to taste

1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).

2. Cook the tortellini according to the package instructions until al dente, then drain and set aside.

3. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic, and sauté until the onions become translucent.

4. Stir in the pizza sauce, diced tomatoes, oregano, and basil. Bring the mixture to a simmer, then season with salt and pepper.

5. In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked tortellini and the sauce mixture, tossing gently to coat.

6. Pour half of the sauced tortellini into a greased 9x13 inch baking dish. Layer half of the pepperoni slices over the tortellini, then sprinkle with 1 cup of mozzarella cheese.

7. Repeat the layers with the remaining tortellini, pepperoni, and mozzarella cheese.

8. Top the casserole with grated Parmesan cheese.

9. Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the casserole is bubbly and the cheese is golden brown.

10. Let the casserole rest for 5 minutes before serving.

For those who love a bit of a kick, sprinkle some red pepper flakes into the sauce or top with jalapeños before baking. If you’re a vegetarian, skip the pepperoni and add bell peppers, olives, and mushrooms for that supreme pizza vibe. You can even switch up the cheeses, using a blend of mozzarella, provolone, and smoked gouda for a deeper flavor profile.