Cheesy Pizza Tortellini One Pan Dinner

Cheesy Pizza Tortellini One Pan Dinner is the ultimate solution for busy nights when you crave comfort food without spending hours in the kitchen. Tender cheese-filled tortellini simmer in a rich marinara sauce with seasoned ground beef, melty cheese, and savory beef or chicken pepperoni, all cooked in a single skillet.

This dish brings together everything you love about pizza and pasta in one cozy, family-friendly meal. The result is rich, creamy, and deeply satisfying, with minimal cleanup and bold flavor in every bite.

Why You Will Love This Recipe

• Ready in just 30 minutes
• Uses only one pan for easy cleanup
• Cheesy, comforting, and family-approved
• Perfect balance of pizza and pasta flavors
• Ideal for weeknights and quick dinners

Ingredients

• 1 lb ground beef
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1/2 tsp black pepper
• 1 tsp onion powder
• 1 tsp Italian seasoning
• 1 tbsp minced garlic
• 1 (24 oz) jar marinara sauce
• 19 oz frozen cheese tortellini
• 4 oz cream cheese (half a block)
• 1/3 cup mini pepperoni made from beef or chicken
• Shredded mozzarella and cheddar cheese, to taste

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef and season with salt, pepper, onion powder, and Italian seasoning. Cook until fully browned, breaking the meat into small pieces.
2. Add the beef or chicken pepperoni to the skillet and cook for 2 to 3 minutes until lightly crisped and fragrant. Carefully drain any excess grease.
3. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for about 30 seconds until aromatic.
4. Pour in the marinara sauce and add the cream cheese. Stir continuously until the cream cheese melts fully and the sauce becomes smooth and creamy.
5. Add the frozen tortellini to the skillet. Stir to coat evenly, cover, and cook on medium-low heat for about 5 minutes or until the tortellini are tender and heated through.
6. Uncover the skillet and sprinkle shredded mozzarella and cheddar cheese evenly over the top. Add extra beef or chicken pepperoni if desired.
7. Either place the skillet under the broiler for a few minutes until the cheese is bubbly and golden, or cover and cook on low heat until fully melted.

You Must Know

• Rich in protein from beef and cheese
• One-pan cooking means less cleanup
• Freezer-friendly for busy weeks

Storage Tips

Let leftovers cool completely, then store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of water if the sauce thickens. This dish can also be frozen for up to one month.

Ingredient Substitutions

• Ground turkey or chicken works well instead of beef
• Seasoned beef or chicken sausage adds extra depth
• Whole wheat tortellini adds more fiber
• For a meat-free version, use mushrooms and spinach

Serving Suggestions

Serve this cheesy tortellini in wide bowls for a cozy presentation. Pair with a crisp green salad and garlic bread to soak up the sauce. Chili flakes or hot honey can be added for extra heat.

Cultural Context

Pizza-inspired pasta dishes are a popular American comfort food twist on Italian classics. This recipe combines the heartiness of stuffed pasta with the bold flavors of pizza night, creating a meal everyone enjoys.

Professional Tips

• Let the cream cheese soften before adding for smoother melting
• Freshly shredded cheese melts better than pre-packaged
• Crisping the beef or chicken pepperoni adds deep flavor

Frequently Asked Questions

What type of tortellini works best?
Frozen cheese tortellini holds its texture best in this dish.

Can I use a different protein?
Yes, beef, chicken, or turkey all work well.

Can I skip the pepperoni?
Yes, vegetables like mushrooms, olives, or bell peppers are great alternatives.