Hearty Meat Lovers Pizza Tortellini

Directions:

1. Cook the Tortellini:

Begin by cooking the cheese tortellini according to the package instructions. Usually, this involves bringing a pot of salted water to a boil, adding the tortellini, and cooking for 3-4 minutes (or until they float to the top). Once done, drain the tortellini and set it aside.

2. Prepare the Meat:

In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the crumbled Italian sausage and ground beef, cooking until both are browned and fully cooked through. Drain any excess fat and set the meats aside.

In the same skillet, cook the sliced pepperoni and bacon until crispy. Drain the grease and set the crispy bacon and pepperoni aside.

3. Make the Pizza Sauce:

In a small bowl, combine the pizza sauce with the Italian seasoning, garlic powder, and red pepper flakes (if using). Stir until the seasoning is fully incorporated. For an extra burst of flavor, you can simmer the sauce in a pan for 5 minutes to thicken it slightly.

4. Assemble the Dish:

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). In a large oven-safe baking dish, spread a thin layer of the prepared pizza sauce on the bottom. Then, layer the cooked tortellini over the sauce.

Next, sprinkle half of the shredded mozzarella, cheddar, and Parmesan cheese evenly over the tortellini. Add the cooked meats—Italian sausage, ground beef, crispy bacon, and pepperoni—on top of the cheese layer.

Pour the remaining pizza sauce over the meats and tortellini, ensuring it’s well-distributed. Top with the remaining shredded mozzarella and cheddar cheese, then sprinkle the Parmesan cheese on top for extra flavor.

5. Bake to Perfection:

Place the assembled dish in the preheated oven and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden. If you want a crispier crust, broil the dish for the last 1-2 minutes, watching carefully to prevent burning.

6. Garnish and Serve:

Remove the dish from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes. Garnish with fresh basil or parsley for a pop of color and added flavor. Serve the Hearty Meat Lovers Pizza Tortellini hot, and enjoy the savory, cheesy goodness with a side salad or some garlic bread.

Why You’ll Love It:

• Meat Galore: Whether you’re a fan of sausage, bacon, pepperoni, or ground beef, this dish delivers a hearty, satisfying combination of your favorite pizza meats.
• Cheese Lovers’ Dream: Between the mozzarella, cheddar, and Parmesan, the cheesy layers are truly indulgent, making this a dream meal for cheese aficionados.
• Comfort Food at Its Best: Tortellini offers a soft, pillowy base, while the pizza sauce and meats add a rich, savory flavor. It’s a meal that comforts the soul and fills you up.
• Easy to Customize: You can easily adjust the toppings to suit your preferences. Add some bell peppers, onions, mushrooms, or even a drizzle of ranch dressing for an extra kick!

Final Thoughts:

If you’re craving something hearty and comforting, the Hearty Meat Lovers Pizza Tortellini is the ultimate combination of two beloved dishes. It’s perfect for family dinners, parties, or whenever you want a satisfying meal that’s full of flavor. With its cheesy layers, savory meats, and a rich, zesty sauce, this dish is sure to become a new favorite in your recipe rotation.