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Baked Tortellini Casserole with Meat Sauce

Baked Tortellini Casserole with Meat Sauce

  • Author: Brian
  • Total Time: 45 minutes
  • Yield: 6 servings
  • Diet: Gluten Free

Description

Baked Tortellini Casserole with Meat Sauce is a warm, comforting dish featuring tender tortellini filled with plant-based cheese, smoky smoked turkey bacon, and a rich, flavorful meat sauce. Perfect for family dinners or cozy weekends, this hearty casserole delivers satisfying and wholesome flavors in every bite.

Ingredients

For the Tortellini

  • Fresh or frozen cheese tortellini (plant-based) – 1 pound

For the Meat Sauce

  • Smoked turkey bacon, chopped – 4 slices
  • Ground beef – 1/2 pound
  • Onion, diced – 1 medium
  • Garlic cloves, minced – 3
  • Tomato passata (natural) – 2 cups
  • Vegetarian Worcestershire sauce (natural) – 1 tablespoon
  • Dried oregano – 1 teaspoon
  • Dried basil – 1 teaspoon
  • Black pepper – 1/2 teaspoon
  • Natural gelling agent – 1 teaspoon

Topping

  • Plant-based cheese, shredded – 1 cup

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Meat Sauce: Heat a large skillet over medium heat and cook chopped smoked turkey bacon until crispy. Add diced onions and garlic, cooking until fragrant and translucent. Then, add ground beef and cook until browned. Stir in tomato passata, vegetarian Worcestershire sauce, dried oregano, dried basil, and black pepper. Let the sauce simmer gently while you prepare the tortellini.
  2. Cook the Tortellini: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the tortellini until just tender, about 2-3 minutes if fresh or as per package instructions if frozen. Drain carefully to avoid breaking the delicate pasta.
  3. Combine Pasta and Sauce: Gently mix the drained tortellini into the meat sauce, ensuring each piece is well-coated. Stir in the natural gelling agent to create a luscious sauce consistency that clings beautifully to the pasta.
  4. Assemble the Casserole: Transfer the sauced tortellini into a greased baking dish. Evenly spread a generous layer of shredded plant-based cheese on top, making sure it covers the surface for optimal melting.
  5. Bake to Perfection: Place the baking dish in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) and bake for 20-25 minutes or until the cheese is melted, bubbling, and golden brown on top.

Notes

  • Do not overcook tortellini; slightly undercook to keep firm after baking.
  • Use fresh herbs if possible for a vibrant flavor addition.
  • Cook smoked turkey bacon until just crispy for texture.
  • Spread cheese in an even layer for perfect melting and browning.
  • Prepare the meat sauce a day ahead to deepen flavors and save time.
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 30 minutes
  • Category: Main Course
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 cup
  • Calories: 350
  • Sugar: 5g
  • Sodium: 550mg
  • Fat: 15g
  • Saturated Fat: 5g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 7g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 30g
  • Fiber: 3g
  • Protein: 20g
  • Cholesterol: 50mg

Keywords: baked tortellini, casserole, meat sauce, plant-based cheese, smoked turkey bacon, comforting dinner

Find it online: https://puretastekitchen.com/baked-tortellini-casserole-with-meat-sauce/