Go Back
Vegan Pasta Bake

Vegan Pasta Bake

This vegan pasta bake combines cooked pasta with a smoky, tangy, creamy sauce made from plant-based ingredients and nutritional yeast, baked until bubbling and golden. The dish features a rich, cheesy flavor with a satisfying texture, topped with crispy breadcrumbs or vegan cheese for added crunch. It’s a comforting, one-pan meal that’s perfect for weeknights or lazy weekends.
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 40 minutes
Servings: 4
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: Italian
Calories: 450

Ingredients
  

  • 12 oz pasta fusilli or your choice preferably ridged or hollow shapes
  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 small onion chopped
  • 3 cloves garlic minced
  • 1 cup plant-based milk unsweetened such as almond or oat milk
  • 1/4 cup nutritional yeast adds cheesy flavor
  • 1 tbsp lemon juice brightens the sauce
  • to taste salt and pepper
  • 1/2 cup plant-based cheese or breadcrumbs for topping
  • optional fresh herbs for garnish

Equipment

  • Large Pot
  • Skillet
  • 9x13 inch baking dish
  • Mixing spoon

Method
 

  1. Preheat your oven to 180°C (356°F) and lightly grease your baking dish.
  2. Cook the pasta in salted boiling water until just al dente, about 2 minutes less than package instructions, then drain well.
  3. While the pasta cooks, heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add chopped onion and cook until translucent and fragrant, about 5 minutes.
  4. Add minced garlic to the skillet and cook for another minute until fragrant, stirring constantly.
  5. Stir in plant-based milk, nutritional yeast, and lemon juice, then season with salt and pepper. Let the mixture simmer gently for about 5 minutes until slightly thickened and fragrant.
  6. Mix the cooked pasta into the skillet, tossing gently to coat every piece with the sauce.
  7. Transfer the coated pasta to your prepared baking dish, spreading it out evenly.
  8. Sprinkle your choice of plant-based cheese or breadcrumbs evenly over the top for a crispy, golden finish.
  9. Bake uncovered for 20-25 minutes until bubbly and the top is golden brown.
  10. Remove from the oven and let rest for 5 minutes; this helps the dish set and makes serving easier.
  11. Garnish with fresh herbs if desired, then serve hot and enjoy the rich, cheesy flavor and satisfying texture.