Vegan Chorizo Pasta Bake

5 from 1 vote

This vegan Chorizo Pasta Bake is so hearty and flavorful! It only needs a handful of ingredients and is quick and easy to put together. Perfect for any day of the week or can easily be made ahead of time.

Prep Time5

Cook Time40

Total Time45

Course: Main Dish, Pasta

Cuisine: American

Diet: Vegan

Servings:

Calories: 427kcal

Author: Jenn Sebestyen

Equipment

Ingredients

16 ounces rigatoni or penne pasta or your favorite medium pasta shape
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 cup diced yellow onion
2 tablespoons tomato paste
2 teaspoons dried oregano
12 ounces vegan chorizo casing removed
1 can (24 oz) crushed tomatoes
1-2 cup(s) fresh baby spinach optional
1 cup Miyoko's liquid mozzarella optional (or your favorite vegan shredded cheese)

Instructions

Preheat the oven to 350°F.
Cook the pasta according to package directions until just al dente.
Meanwhile, heat the oil in a large non-stick skillet over medium heat. Add the onion and sauté until soft and translucent, about 4 to 5 minutes.
Add the tomato paste and oregano and stir well until well combined. If the mixture is too dry, add a splash of the pasta cooking water or just plain water.
Add the vegan chorizo to the skillet and break it up with a wooden spoon. Cook, stirring occasionally, until warmed through and fragrant, about 3 minutes.
Add the crushed tomatoes and stir to combine. Cook, stirring occasionally, for about 10 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
Stir in the cooked pasta and spinach, if using.
Transfer the mixture to a 9x13 baking dish (or a 3-4 quart casserole dish). Bake for 15 to 20 minutes, until hot and bubbly.
Drizzle the vegan liquid mozzarella over the top and broil for 5 to 10 minutes until browned and gooey.
Serve hot.

Notes

~ Cook the pasta until just al dente. It will continue cooking in the oven and you don't want it to get mushy.

~ If you like a thinner sauce, add a ladle of the pasta cooking water.

~ If you like spicy, add a pinch of red pepper flakes when you add the tomato paste and oregano.

~ For a gluten-free option, use gluten-free pasta and Trader Joe's Soy Chorizo. If you're using a different brand of vegan chorizo, make sure to read labels and choose accordingly if you need this dish to be gluten-free.

~ Make sure to use a large enough casserole dish so it doesn't bubble over the sides in the oven. Even better, place the baking dish on a rimmed baking sheet to catch any spills.

Nutrition