Description
This hearty Meat Lovers Pizza Tortellini combines tender tortellini pasta with a savory mix of ground beef, Italian sausage, and bacon, all cooked in a rich pizza sauce. Topped with melted mozzarella cheese and pepperoni slices, this dish delivers all the flavors of a classic meat lover’s pizza in a comforting pasta casserole, perfect for a satisfying family meal.
Ingredients
Scale
Pasta
- 12 ounces tortellini pasta
Meat and Protein
- 1/2 pound Italian ground sausage
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1/2 cup cooked chopped bacon
- Sliced pepperoni (as desired)
Vegetables and Seasonings
- 1/2 medium yellow onion, diced
- 1 tablespoon minced garlic
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
Dairy
- 2 cups mozzarella cheese
Other
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 24 ounces pizza sauce
Instructions
- Boil Tortellini: Boil the tortellini according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain well and set aside to prepare for mixing.
- Cook Meat and Onions: In a large skillet over medium-high heat, heat olive oil and sauté the diced yellow onions until they become soft and translucent. Add the ground beef and Italian sausage, cooking and stirring until the meat is browned and crumbly. Incorporate the minced garlic and Italian seasoning, then drain any excess grease from the skillet. Return the mixture to the heat and stir in the cooked chopped bacon.
- Add Sauce and Tortellini: Pour the pizza sauce into the meat mixture and stir to combine. Gently fold in the cooked tortellini, allowing the flavors to meld. Let the mixture simmer on low heat until heated through and well combined.
- Add Cheese and Pepperoni: Sprinkle the mozzarella cheese evenly over the tortellini and meat mixture. Arrange sliced pepperoni on top as desired. Cover the skillet and remove it from heat, allowing the residual warmth to melt the cheese thoroughly.
- Serve: Serve the Meat Lovers Pizza Tortellini hot, optionally garnished with fresh herbs such as basil or parsley for added freshness and presentation.
Notes
- You can use fresh tortellini or frozen tortellini; just adjust cooking time accordingly based on package instructions.
- For extra spice, add a pinch of red pepper flakes when sautéing the meat.
- If you prefer, substitute mozzarella with a blend of Italian cheeses like provolone or Parmesan for a different flavor profile.
- This dish pairs well with a simple green salad or garlic bread to complete the meal.
- Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and reheated gently on the stovetop or microwave.
