Description
This Baked Tortellini Casserole is an easy-to-make comfort food featuring creamy plant-based cheese, crispy smoked turkey bacon, and a natural gelling agent that creates a luscious sauce. With fresh herbs and vibrant tomato sauce (natural), it delivers rich flavors and satisfying textures perfect for family dinners or entertaining guests.
Ingredients
Scale
Main Ingredients
- 12 oz cheese-filled tortellini (plant-based cheese preferred)
- 6 slices smoked turkey bacon, chopped into bite-sized pieces
- 1 cup plant-based cheese, shredded
- 1 tablespoon natural gelling agent
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cups tomato sauce (natural)
- 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Fresh basil leaves, chopped, to taste
- Fresh parsley leaves, chopped, to taste
Instructions
- Prepare the ingredients
Boil the tortellini until just tender, about 2 minutes less than package directions to ensure firmness after baking. Drain and set aside. Meanwhile, sauté the chopped smoked turkey bacon, minced garlic, and onion in olive oil over medium heat until fragrant and browned. - Make the sauce
In a mixing bowl, whisk together the tomato sauce (natural), plant-based cheese, apple cider vinegar, and natural gelling agent until well combined. Fold in the sautéed smoked turkey bacon mixture to add smoky richness. - Assemble the casserole
In a baking dish, layer half of the cooked tortellini, then pour half the sauce mixture over it. Sprinkle fresh basil and parsley evenly. Repeat the layers with the remaining tortellini and sauce. Top with extra plant-based cheese for a golden crust. - Bake to perfection
Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Bake the casserole for 25-30 minutes or until bubbly and lightly browned on top. Let it rest for 5 minutes before serving to allow flavors to meld.
Notes
- Don’t overcook tortellini to prevent mushy texture after baking.
- Use quality smoked turkey bacon for best smoky flavor.
- Mix the sauce thoroughly to evenly distribute the natural gelling agent.
- Allow resting time after baking for better texture and flavor harmony.
- Add fresh herbs right before baking to keep their bright flavors intact.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Appetizers
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 450mg
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 40g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 12g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
Keywords: baked tortellini casserole, plant-based cheese, smoked turkey bacon, comfort food, easy casserole, creamy pasta bake
