Print
clock clock iconcutlery cutlery iconflag flag iconfolder folder iconinstagram instagram iconpinterest pinterest iconfacebook facebook iconprint print iconsquares squares iconheart heart iconheart solid heart solid icon
Cheesy Baked Tortellini Casserole

Cheesy Baked Tortellini Casserole

  • Author: Michael
  • Total Time: 50 minutes
  • Yield: 6 servings
  • Diet: Gluten Free

Description

This Cheesy Baked Tortellini Casserole blends creamy, plant-based cheese with tender tortellini pasta and smoky turkey bacon for a savory, comforting meal. Enhanced with natural sauces, fresh herbs, and a perfect texture, it is a simple yet satisfying dish perfect for family dinners or cozy nights in.

Ingredients

Pasta

  • Fresh or frozen cheese-filled tortellini – 12 oz (340 g)

Cheese and Dairy Alternatives

  • Plant-based cheese (melting variety) – 1 1/2 cups, shredded
  • Heavy cream substitute (plant-based) – 1/2 cup

Meat

  • Smoked turkey bacon, diced – 6 slices

Sauces and Flavorings

  • Tomato sauce (natural) – 1 1/2 cups
  • Vegetarian Worcestershire sauce (natural) – 2 tbsp

Produce

  • Garlic, minced – 3 cloves
  • Onion, finely chopped – 1 medium
  • Fresh basil, chopped – 2 tbsp
  • Fresh parsley, chopped – 2 tbsp (+ extra for garnish)

Other

  • Natural gelling agent – 1 tsp
  • Olive oil – 2 tbsp

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Ingredients: Cook the tortellini according to package instructions until al dente, then drain and set aside. Dice the smoked turkey bacon and finely chop the garlic and onions.
  2. Sauté the Aromatics and Bacon: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the onions and garlic and cook until soft and fragrant. Add the smoked turkey bacon and sauté until lightly crisped and aromatic.
  3. Make the Sauce: Pour in the tomato sauce (natural) and stir in vegetarian Worcestershire sauce (natural). Add the plant-based cream substitute and natural gelling agent, stirring to thicken the sauce slightly. Simmer gently, stirring occasionally to blend flavors.
  4. Combine Tortellini and Sauce: Mix the cooked tortellini into the sauce thoroughly to coat each piece. Fold in chopped fresh basil and parsley for a bright, fresh flavor.
  5. Assemble and Bake: Transfer the tortellini mixture to a greased casserole dish. Sprinkle the shredded plant-based cheese evenly over the top. Bake in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for 25-30 minutes until the casserole is bubbling and the cheese is golden brown.

Notes

  • Don’t overcook the pasta; slightly undercook tortellini to prevent mushiness after baking.
  • Use a quality plant-based cheese that melts well for the perfect gooey texture.
  • Ensure even sauce distribution by thoroughly mixing sauce and tortellini.
  • Add fresh herbs right before baking to maintain their fresh, bright flavor.
  • Let the casserole rest briefly after baking to help it set and simplify serving.
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 35 minutes
  • Category: Appetizers
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 cup
  • Calories: 320
  • Sugar: 5 g
  • Sodium: 580 mg
  • Fat: 18 g
  • Saturated Fat: 6 g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 10 g
  • Trans Fat: 0 g
  • Carbohydrates: 28 g
  • Fiber: 3 g
  • Protein: 14 g
  • Cholesterol: 15 mg

Keywords: cheesy baked tortellini, baked pasta casserole, plant-based cheese casserole, smoked turkey bacon pasta, comforting pasta bake

Find it online: https://classicrecipehub.com/cheesy-baked-tortellini-casserole/