Ingredients
Scale
- 1 pound Mild Italian Sausage
- 1 (19-ounce) package refrigerated Cheese Tortellini
- 1 (24-ounce) jar Marinara Sauce or Pizza Sauce
- 2 cups shredded Mozzarella Cheese
- 1/2 cup sliced Pepperoni
- 4 slices Bacon, cooked and crumbled
- 1 tablespoon Olive Oil
- 1 teaspoon Italian Seasoning
Instructions
- Step 1: Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the Italian sausage and cook, breaking it up with a spoon, until fully browned. Drain any excess grease, then stir in the Italian seasoning.
- Step 2: While the sausage cooks, prepare the tortellini according to package directions, aiming for al dente (slightly firm). Drain the tortellini well and set aside.
- Step 3: Add the marinara sauce, cooked bacon, and half of the sliced pepperoni to the skillet with the seasoned sausage. Stir well to combine, and allow the sauce to simmer for 3-5 minutes until heated through.
- Step 4: Gently fold the cooked and drained tortellini into the meat and sauce mixture until everything is evenly coated. Transfer the entire contents of the skillet into a 9×13 inch baking dish.
- Step 5: Sprinkle the 2 cups of shredded mozzarella cheese over the top of the mixture, then arrange the remaining pepperoni slices across the cheese layer. Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly and the sauce is hot throughout.
Notes
- Leftovers keep beautifully; refrigerate the cooled dish, covered tightly, for up to three days, or freeze in individual portions for easy weeknight meals.
- When reheating refrigerated portions, add a small splash of marinara sauce or water before microwaving or baking to restore moisture and prevent the tortellini from drying out.
- Balance the richness of the dish by serving it with a light, crisp green salad dressed with a tangy vinaigrette, or simple garlic bread for dipping.
- Since the sausage and bacon are fatty, drain the cooked Italian sausage very thoroughly before adding the marinara to prevent the final casserole from becoming greasy.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American