Pin it
This hearty Meat Lovers Pizza Tortellini transforms classic pizza flavors into a comforting pasta dish that satisfies even the most devoted carnivores. The cheesy tortellini creates the perfect base for layers of savory meats and gooey cheese, all brought together with rich pizza sauce.
I created this recipe during a particularly busy sports season when my family needed substantial dinners that could be prepared quickly. Now it has become our Friday night tradition when everyone craves something indulgent but I need something straightforward to prepare.
Ingredients
- Tortellini pasta: 12 ounces cheese filled variety works best as its mild flavor complements the bold meats
- Italian ground sausage: 1/2 pound provides complex flavor and spices
- Yellow onion: 1/2 medium diced adds sweetness when sautéed
- Ground beef: 1 pound use 80/20 for best flavor
- Olive oil: 1 tablespoon high quality adds richness
- Mozzarella cheese: 2 cups fresh shredded melts better than pre shredded
- Cooked chopped bacon: 1/2 cup adds smoky flavor and crispy texture
- Minced garlic: 1 tablespoon fresh provides aromatic depth
- Italian seasoning: 1 teaspoon balances the meaty flavors with herbs
- Sliced pepperoni: as desired thin sliced crisps up nicely
- Pizza sauce: 24 ounces choose a brand with visible herbs and spices
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Cook the Tortellini:
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Cook tortellini according to package instructions usually 7 to 9 minutes until they float to the surface and are tender but still slightly firm. Drain thoroughly but do not rinse to maintain the starchy exterior that helps sauce adhere.
- Prepare the Meat Mixture:
- Heat olive oil in a large deep skillet over medium heat until shimmering. Add diced onions and cook for 3 to 4 minutes until translucent and beginning to soften. Add the ground beef and Italian sausage breaking up with a wooden spoon as it cooks. Continue cooking for 8 to 10 minutes until no pink remains and meat is well browned. Stir in minced garlic and Italian seasoning cooking for another 30 seconds until fragrant. Carefully drain excess grease from the pan by tilting and spooning out or using a strainer. Return the mixture to the skillet and fold in the cooked bacon pieces.
- Combine and Simmer:
- Pour the pizza sauce into the meat mixture stirring thoroughly to combine. Reduce heat to medium low and simmer for about 5 minutes allowing flavors to meld. Gently fold in the cooked tortellini ensuring each piece is coated with sauce but being careful not to break the pasta. Continue to simmer for 2 to 3 minutes until everything is heated through.
- Top and Melt:
- Evenly sprinkle the mozzarella cheese over the entire mixture ensuring complete coverage. Arrange pepperoni slices decoratively on top pushing them slightly into the cheese. Cover the skillet with a lid and turn off the heat allowing the residual warmth to melt the cheese for approximately 3 to 5 minutes until cheese is completely melted and slightly bubbly.
- Serve:
- Portion the tortellini into bowls while still hot and gooey. For a restaurant quality presentation add a light sprinkle of additional Italian seasoning or fresh chopped basil before serving.
The Italian sausage is truly the secret ingredient in this recipe. I discovered its importance when I once made the dish without it and my husband immediately noticed something was missing. The blend of fennel seeds and other spices in quality Italian sausage elevates all the other ingredients and creates that authentic pizza shop flavor we all crave.
Make-Ahead Magic
This dish shines as a make ahead option. Prepare everything through combining the tortellini with the meat sauce but stop before adding cheese and pepperoni. Cool completely and refrigerate for up to 2 days. When ready to serve reheat in a 350°F oven until hot throughout about 20 minutes then add cheese and pepperoni and continue heating until melted.
Customization Corner
Feel free to adapt this recipe to your familys preferences. Vegetable lovers can add sautéed mushrooms bell peppers or spinach. For a spicier version incorporate red pepper flakes or use hot Italian sausage. Those preferring a lighter option can substitute turkey sausage and lean ground turkey for the beef and sausage.
Serving Suggestions
This hearty tortellini deserves simple accompaniments. A crisp green salad with light vinaigrette provides welcome freshness. Garlic bread makes an excellent side for soaking up extra sauce. For a complete Italian experience serve with a medium bodied red wine like Chianti or Montepulciano for adults and sparkling water with lemon for the kids.
Frequently Asked Questions
- → Can I use other types of pasta instead of tortellini?
Yes, while tortellini adds a cheesy filling that complements the dish, you can experiment with other pasta types like penne or rigatoni for a similar texture and flavor.
- → Can this dish be reheated?
Absolutely! You can prepare the dish ahead of time and reheat it in the oven or microwave. Sprinkle extra cheese and pepperoni on top for a fresh layer of flavor.
- → What can I use instead of Italian sausage?
If you prefer, you can substitute Italian sausage with ground turkey, chicken sausage, or even more ground beef, adjusting seasoning to taste.
- → How can I make this dish lighter?
For a lighter version, you can use lean ground beef, reduced-fat cheese, and turkey bacon. Adding more vegetables like bell peppers or spinach is another great option.
- → Can I freeze this dish?
Yes, you can freeze this dish. Let it cool completely before storing in a freezer-safe container. Reheat thoroughly before serving for the best texture and flavor.