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Easy Vegan Pasta Bake with Sausage, White Beans & Kale

A comforting and flavorful vegan pasta bake that combines chickpea or lentil pasta with spicy Italian vegan sausage, creamy white beans, and nutritious kale, all topped with melted vegan cheese.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 25 minutes
Total Time 40 minutes
Servings: 6 servings
Course: Dinner, Main Course
Cuisine: Italian, Vegan
Calories: 350
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Pasta and Base Ingredients
  • 8 oz chickpea or lentil pasta (penne recommended) Gluten-free option
  • 1 tbsp extra virgin olive oil Adds rich flavor
  • 380 g cooked spicy Italian vegan sausage, sliced For depth and spice
  • 19 oz no salt added white beans, drained and rinsed Creaminess and healthy protein
  • 3 cups baby kale leaves, stems removed Nutritious greens
  • 680 ml can of tomato sauce Juicy, tangy base
  • 1 tsp dried oregano Enhances flavor
  • 1 tbsp aged balsamic vinegar Sweet-tart dimension
  • 1 tbsp nutritional yeast Cheesy flavor without dairy
  • to taste salt and pepper Elevates flavors
  • pinch red chili flakes Adds heat
  • 2 cups vegan strong-flavored cheese or aged white cheddar, divided, shredded Melty topping

Method
 

Preparation
  1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
  2. Cook the pasta according to the box instructions, reducing the cooking time by 1-2 minutes.
  3. Heat the olive oil in a casserole dish over medium-high heat. Add the sliced sausage and brown it on both sides.
  4. Add the kale leaves to the sausage and toss until wilted.
Assembly and Baking
  1. In the same dish, add the tomato sauce, oregano, balsamic vinegar, nutritional yeast, salt, pepper, and chili flakes. Cook until simmering for about 5-7 minutes.
  2. Combine the pasta, sausage, kale, white beans, and 1½ cups of cheese, tossing to ensure an even coating.
  3. Sprinkle the remaining ½ cup of cheese on top and bake for 10-12 minutes, or until bubbly and golden brown.

Notes

For a smoky flavor, consider using smoked vegan sausage. Customize vegetables as desired. Allow to rest after baking for easier serving. Experiment with different vegan cheeses.