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Vegan Pasta Bake

This vegan pasta bake combines al dente pasta layered with a rich tomato sauce and a silky cashew-based creamy topping, finished with a golden, crispy vegan cheese crust. The dish offers a comforting, cheesy texture with a satisfying crunch on top and a saucy, tender interior, perfect for a cozy meal.
Print Recipe
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 45 minutes
Servings: 4
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: Italian, Vegan
Calories: 520
Ingredients Equipment Method

Ingredients
  

  • 12 oz pasta (penne or rigatoni) uncooked
  • 2 cups tomato sauce preferably good quality
  • 1 cup cashews soaked overnight or in hot water for 30 minutes
  • 1/4 cup nutritional yeast for cheesy flavor
  • 2 cloves garlic minced
  • 2 tablespoons lemon juice
  • 1 cup vegan cheese grated or crumbled
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil for sautéing
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
  • to taste salt and pepper

Equipment

  • Large pot
  • Blender
  • Baking Dish
  • Wooden spoon or spatula
  • Aluminum Foil
  • Oven thermometer (optional)

Method
 

  1. Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F). Lightly grease a 9x13 inch baking dish to prevent sticking.
  2. Cook the pasta in a large pot of salted boiling water until just al dente, about 1-2 minutes less than package instructions. Drain and set aside.
  3. In a large bowl, combine the cooked pasta with tomato sauce, dried oregano, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Mix well to coat all the pasta evenly.
  4. In a blender, add soaked cashews, minced garlic, lemon juice, a splash of plant milk, and a pinch of salt. Blend until smooth and creamy, about 1-2 minutes, stopping to scrape down sides as needed.
  5. Pour the cashew cream over the pasta mixture, folding gently to combine everything evenly. Spread the mixture into your prepared baking dish.
  6. Sprinkle the grated vegan cheese generously over the top, ensuring even coverage for that cheesy crust.
  7. Place the dish in the oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the top is golden and bubbling with a crispy edge.
  8. Once baked, remove from the oven and let rest for 5 minutes to allow the sauce to set slightly.
  9. Garnish with fresh herbs if desired, then serve hot and enjoy the irresistibly cheesy, crispy-topped vegan pasta bake.