Description

This Baked Tortellini Casserole blends tender cheese-filled tortellini with creamy plant-based cheese, crispy smoked turkey bacon, and a rich natural tomato sauce. Perfectly baked to a golden, bubbly finish, this comforting casserole is simple to make, customizable, and ideal for family dinners or casual gatherings.

Ingredients

Scale

Primary Ingredients

12 oz fresh or frozen cheese-filled tortellini
6 slices smoked turkey bacon, chopped
2 cups tomato sauce (natural)
1 ½ cups shredded plant-based cheese
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 medium onion, chopped
1 teaspoon Italian herbs (natural) – oregano, basil, thyme mix
2 cups fresh spinach (optional)
1 teaspoon natural gelling agent
2 tablespoons olive oil

Instructions

Prepare the Ingredients: Boil the tortellini until al dente, then drain and set aside. While the pasta cooks, chop the smoked turkey bacon and sauté it in olive oil until crispy. Reserve a bit of the rendered fat for the sauce base.
Make the Sauce: In the same pan with the reserved smoked turkey bacon fat, add minced garlic and chopped onion. Sauté until fragrant and translucent. Pour in the natural tomato sauce, sprinkle in Italian herbs, and simmer gently. Stir in the natural gelling agent to thicken the sauce slightly, creating a luscious base for baking.
Combine Tortellini and Sauce: Mix the cooked tortellini with the sauce, coating each piece evenly. Fold in the fresh spinach if using, allowing it to wilt evenly throughout the mixture.
Assemble the Casserole: Grease a baking dish and pour the tortellini and sauce mixture inside. Scatter the crispy smoked turkey bacon pieces on top, then cover with shredded plant-based cheese for a melty, golden crust.
Bake to Perfection: Bake in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for 20-25 minutes until the cheese is golden, bubbling, and edges start to crisp. Let the casserole rest for a few minutes before serving to meld the flavors beautifully.

Notes

Do not overcook the tortellini; slightly undercooked pasta will prevent a mushy casserole.
Use fresh herbs and quality natural tomato sauce for enhanced flavor depth.
Evenly distribute cheese and smoked turkey bacon for consistent taste and texture.
Allow the casserole to cool slightly before slicing to maintain structure.
Experiment with different plant-based cheeses to find your preferred melt and flavor.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Category: Appetizers
Method: Baking
Cuisine: Italian-inspired

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 cup
Calories: 370
Sugar: 6g
Sodium: 580mg
Fat: 14g
Saturated Fat: 3g
Unsaturated Fat: 10g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 45g
Fiber: 4g
Protein: 15g
Cholesterol: 0mg

Keywords: baked tortellini casserole, plant-based cheese, smoked turkey bacon, tomato sauce, easy dinner, comfort food, plant-based casserole