Description
This Cheesy Baked Tortellini Casserole blends tender cheese-filled tortellini with smoky turkey bacon and rich, creamy plant-based sauces, topped with melting plant-based cheese for an irresistible and comforting family meal. Perfect for weeknight dinners or gatherings, it delivers balanced flavors, ease of preparation, and comforting goodness in every bite.
Ingredients
Scale
Main Ingredients
- 12 oz cheese-filled tortellini (plant-based)
- 6 slices smoked turkey bacon, chopped
- 1 1/2 cups plant-based cheese, shredded
- 1 cup canned diced tomatoes
- 3/4 cup heavy cream (plant-based)
- 2 tbsp vegetarian Worcestershire sauce (natural)
- 1 tsp garlic powder (natural)
- 1 tsp onion powder (natural)
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 1 tsp natural gelling agent
- 1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped
Instructions
- Prepare the tortellini: Cook the cheese-filled tortellini in salted boiling water until just tender. Drain and set aside to avoid overcooking during baking.
- Cook the smoked turkey bacon: In a large skillet, cook the chopped turkey bacon pieces until crispy and golden. Remove and place on paper towels to drain excess fat.
- Make the creamy sauce: Using the same skillet, lower the heat and add plant-based heavy cream, vegetarian Worcestershire sauce (natural), diced tomatoes, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper. Stir gently and bring to a simmer. Sprinkle in the natural gelling agent while stirring until the sauce thickens slightly.
- Combine tortellini and sauce: Fold the cooked tortellini and crispy turkey bacon into the creamy sauce mixture, ensuring everything is evenly coated and mixed.
- Assemble and bake: Transfer the mixture to a baking dish. Sprinkle generously with plant-based cheese on top. Bake in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for 20-25 minutes or until the top is bubbly and golden.
Notes
- Do not overcook the tortellini to prevent mushy texture after baking.
- Using day-old tortellini helps it hold its shape better and absorb sauce well.
- Let the casserole rest for 5-10 minutes after baking for easier serving and better flavor melding.
- Add fresh chopped basil or parsley before serving for a fresh, fragrant finish.
- For a smoother sauce, substitute canned diced tomatoes with fresh finely diced tomatoes or thick tomato purée.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Appetizers
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian-inspired
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 4 g
- Sodium: 600 mg
- Fat: 18 g
- Saturated Fat: 6 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 30 g
- Fiber: 3 g
- Protein: 12 g
- Cholesterol: 15 mg
Keywords: tortellini casserole, cheesy baked pasta, plant-based cheese, turkey bacon casserole, easy weeknight meal
