Description

If you're a fan of hearty, comforting meals that bring a smile to your face, then Meat Lovers Pizza Tortellini is the dish for you. Imagine tender, pillowy tortellini filled with a savory mix of meats, all swimming in a rich, zesty tomato sauce, topped with gooey melted cheese, and garnished with fresh herbs. This dish is a love letter to all things pizza and pasta, giving you the best of both worlds in a fun and unique way. Originating from the Italian kitchen, where both tortellini and pizza reign supreme, this recipe is a delightful twist that marries the comforting elements of two beloved classics.

What makes Meat Lovers Pizza Tortellini special is its versatility. Whether you’re hosting a gathering, enjoying a cozy night in, or even meal prepping for the week ahead, this dish is sure to impress. Plus, it’s easy to prepare, making it a fantastic option for both novice cooks and seasoned chefs. With layers of flavor and textures, every bite will take you on a culinary adventure that celebrates the joy of cooking. Get ready to dive into a bowl of happiness!

Ingredients

• For the Tortellini:
• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 3 large eggs
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• For the Filling:
• 1 cup ricotta cheese
• 1 cup cooked Italian sausage, crumbled
• 1 cup cooked pepperoni, chopped
• 1/2 cup cooked ham, diced
• 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• Salt and pepper to taste
• For the Sauce:
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 can (28 ounces) crushed tomatoes
• 1 tablespoon tomato paste
• 1 teaspoon dried basil
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
• Salt and pepper to taste
• For the Topping:
• 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
• Fresh basil leaves for garnish

Preparation Method

Begin by making the tortellini dough. In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour and salt, creating a well in the center. Crack the eggs into the well and add the olive oil. Using a fork, gently whisk the eggs, gradually incorporating the flour from the edges until a shaggy dough forms. Dust your countertop with flour and knead the dough for about 8-10 minutes, until it is smooth and elastic. Wrap the dough in plastic wrap and let it rest for at least 30 minutes at room temperature.

While the dough rests, prepare the filling. In a medium bowl, combine ricotta cheese, crumbled sausage, chopped pepperoni, diced ham, shredded mozzarella, grated Parmesan, dried oregano, garlic powder, and season with salt and pepper. Mix until all ingredients are well combined. You can adjust the meat quantities based on your preference or even add other fillings like cooked bacon or diced turkey.

Next, it's time to make the sauce. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the finely chopped onion and sauté until translucent, about 5 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant. Stir in the crushed tomatoes and tomato paste, mixing well. Season with dried basil, oregano, red pepper flakes, salt, and pepper. Bring the sauce to a gentle simmer and let it cook for about 15-20 minutes to allow the flavors to meld, stirring occasionally.

Once your dough has rested, roll it out on a floured surface to about 1/8 inch thick. Use a round cutter or a glass to cut out circles of dough, about 3 inches in diameter. Place a teaspoon of filling in the center of each circle. Fold the dough in half over the filling to create a half-moon shape. Press the edges to seal, and then bring the two corners together to form a tortellini shape. Repeat until all the dough and filling are used.

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Once boiling, carefully add the tortellini and cook for about 3-5 minutes, or until they float to the surface. This indicates that they are cooked through. Use a slotted spoon to remove the tortellini and transfer them to a large baking dish.

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Pour the prepared sauce over the tortellini, ensuring they are well coated. Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella over the top. Bake in the preheated oven for about 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown.

Once out of the oven, let the dish cool for a few minutes. Garnish with fresh basil leaves for a pop of color and added flavor. Serve hot, and enjoy the delightful combination of flavors that this Meat Lovers Pizza Tortellini brings to your table.

Tips and Conclusion

For those who love to experiment, consider adding vegetables to your filling for an extra nutritional boost. Spinach, mushrooms, or bell peppers would work wonderfully. If you want a lighter version, you could use whole wheat flour for the tortellini dough or substitute part of the meat with shredded zucchini or eggplant. This dish also stores beautifully; you can make it ahead of time and reheat it in the oven or microwave. It’s perfect for meal prep, so you can enjoy it throughout the week.



Preparing Meat Lovers Pizza Tortellini is not just about cooking; it’s about creating a dish that brings joy and satisfaction. The process of making tortellini from scratch may seem daunting at first, but it’s incredibly rewarding and fun. You’ll love the rich flavors of the filling combined with the comforting sauce, all topped with gooey cheese that pulls away in delicious strings with every bite.

As you enjoy this savory delight, don’t forget to explore other recipes on our site that celebrate the joy of home cooking. From classic Italian dishes to comforting casseroles, there’s a world of flavors waiting for you. Share this recipe with friends and family so they, too, can discover the magic of Meat Lovers Pizza Tortellini. Happy cooking!