Cheesy Pizza Tortellini (One-Pan Meal)
Introduction
Cheesy Pizza Tortellini is the ultimate comfort food — a quick, one-pan recipe that brings together the best of both worlds: the rich, hearty taste of pizza and the creamy, cheesy delight of tortellini. It’s perfect for busy weeknights, when you want something satisfying, flavorful, and ready in under 30 minutes.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 lb (450 g) ground beef
- ½ tsp salt
- ½ tsp black pepper
- 1 tsp onion powder
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- 2 cups (500 g) marinara or pizza sauce
- 1 cup (240 ml) water or beef broth
- 1 package (9 oz / 250 g) cheese tortellini (fresh or refrigerated)
- 1 cup (100 g) shredded mozzarella cheese
- ¼ cup (25 g) grated Parmesan cheese
- ¼ cup mini pepperoni (optional)
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- Fresh basil or parsley (for garnish)
Optional Additions
- Vegetables: Sliced bell peppers, mushrooms, or spinach
- Spice it up: Add red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños
- Different meats: Use Italian sausage, chicken, or turkey instead of beef
- Extra cheesy: Mix in some ricotta or cheddar for a creamier texture
Tips for Success
- Use a large skillet: It helps cook everything evenly and keeps cleanup simple.
- Don’t overcook the tortellini: They cook quickly and continue to soften in the sauce.
- Adjust sauce consistency: Add a splash of water or broth if it becomes too thick.
- Melt cheese under the broiler: For a golden, bubbly top layer.
- Let it rest: Give the dish a few minutes before serving so the cheese sets slightly.
Instructions
- Brown the beef:
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add ground beef, breaking it apart with a spoon. Season with salt, pepper, onion powder, and Italian seasoning. Cook until browned and no longer pink. Drain any excess fat. - Add sauce and liquid:
Stir in marinara or pizza sauce and water (or broth). Mix well to combine. - Add tortellini:
Add the tortellini directly into the sauce. Stir to coat, then cover and simmer for 6–8 minutes, or until the tortellini are tender and cooked through. - Add cheese and toppings:
Sprinkle mozzarella, Parmesan, and pepperoni on top. Cover for 2–3 minutes, or place under the broiler until the cheese melts and bubbles. - Serve:
Garnish with fresh basil or parsley. Serve hot and enjoy your cheesy pizza-inspired pasta!
Description
This Cheesy Pizza Tortellini dish is everything you love about pizza — rich tomato sauce, gooey cheese, and savory toppings — combined with the hearty satisfaction of pasta. Each bite is bursting with flavor, making it a guaranteed crowd-pleaser that both kids and adults will adore.
Nutritional Information (Approx. per serving — 4 servings)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 480 kcal |
| Protein | 30 g |
| Fat | 24 g |
| Carbohydrates | 32 g |
| Sugars | 6 g |
| Fiber | 3 g |
| Sodium | 820 mg |
(Varies based on ingredients used.)
Conclusion
This one-pan Cheesy Pizza Tortellini is a quick, hearty meal that delivers comfort and flavor in every forkful. It’s ideal for nights when you crave pizza but want something a little cozier and easier to prepare.
Recommendation
Pair this dish with a crisp green salad or garlic bread for a complete dinner. It reheats beautifully, so leftovers make a great next-day lunch. Perfect for family dinners, potlucks, or cozy nights in.
Embracing Healthful Indulgence
You can easily make this dish lighter by using lean ground turkey, whole-grain tortellini, reduced-fat cheese, or a homemade tomato sauce with less sodium. Balance is key — this recipe lets you indulge in rich flavors while keeping your meal nourishing and satisfying.