A colorful Veggie Pasta Bake featuring fresh vegetables and melted cheese.

Veggie Pasta Bake

ByGeorge Law
Jump to Recipe Print Recipe

Veggie Pasta Bake

Veggie pasta bake is a delicious and hearty dish that combines whole wheat pasta with a colorful array of vegetables and savory cheeses. It’s the perfect comfort food, ideal for family dinners or meal prep for the week. This dish is not only flavorful but also a nutritious way to incorporate more vegetables into your diet.

Why You’ll Love This Veggie Pasta Bake

This veggie pasta bake is easy to make and packed with nutrition. It features whole wheat pasta, which adds fiber and nutrients. The vibrant mix of bell peppers, zucchini, cherry tomatoes, and broccoli provides plenty of vitamins. Plus, it’s topped with melted mozzarella and Parmesan, making it a hit with both kids and adults. You can customize the vegetables according to your preferences or whatever you have on hand, making it versatile and budget-friendly.

How to Make Veggie Pasta Bake

Ingredients:

  • 12 ounces (about 340g) whole wheat or regular penne pasta
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 medium onion, diced
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 red bell pepper, chopped
  • 1 yellow bell pepper, chopped
  • 1 zucchini, sliced
  • 1 cup broccoli florets
  • 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
  • 1 cup marinara sauce
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
  • 1 teaspoon dried basil
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
  • ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • ¼ cup chopped fresh basil

Step-by-Step Instructions:

  1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
  2. Cook the pasta according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
  3. In a large skillet over medium heat, add the olive oil. Sauté the onion and garlic until soft and fragrant, about 3 minutes.
  4. Add the red and yellow bell peppers, zucchini, and broccoli. Cook for 5-6 minutes until the vegetables are tender.
  5. Stir in the cherry tomatoes and cook for another 2 minutes.
  6. Add the marinara sauce, oregano, basil, salt, and pepper. Mix well and let it simmer for 5 minutes.
  7. Combine the cooked pasta with the vegetable sauce mixture, then pour it into the greased baking dish.
  8. Sprinkle the mozzarella and Parmesan cheeses evenly over the top.
  9. Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
  10. Remove from the oven, let cool slightly, and garnish with fresh basil before serving.

Veggie Pasta Bake

How to Serve Veggie Pasta Bake

Serve this veggie pasta bake warm, straight from the oven. It pairs well with a simple side salad or some garlic bread for a more filling meal. You can also offer extra grated cheese or crushed red pepper on the side for added flavor.

How to Store Veggie Pasta Bake

Leftover veggie pasta bake can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to five days. To reheat, simply place it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes or until heated through. You can also microwave individual portions for a quick reheatable meal.

Tips to Make Veggie Pasta Bake Perfect

  • Vegetable Variations: Feel free to mix in other vegetables like spinach, kale, or asparagus for different flavors and textures.
  • Cheese Options: You can substitute mozzarella with other cheeses such as cheddar or Gouda for a unique taste.
  • Pasta Alternatives: If you’re looking for gluten-free options, try using gluten-free pasta.
  • Make It Spicy: Add some crushed red pepper flakes to the sauce for a spicy kick.

Flavor Variations

Experimenting with different flavors can keep things interesting. Here are a few ideas:

  • Mediterranean Style: Add olives, artichokes, and feta cheese for a Mediterranean twist.
  • Italian Style: Mix in Italian sausage or ground turkey for added protein and flavor.
  • Herb-Infused: Use fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary to add depth to the sauce.

Pro Tips for Success

  • Cook Pasta Al Dente: This will help it hold its shape better during baking.
  • Use Quality Marinara Sauce: A good sauce can make or break your recipe. Opt for one with simple and clean ingredients.
  • Don’t Overbake: Keep an eye on the cheese to ensure it melts perfectly without burning.

FAQs About Veggie Pasta Bake

1. Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the veggie pasta bake ahead of time. Assemble it up to a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator. When you’re ready to eat, just bake it as instructed.

2. Can I freeze leftovers?

Absolutely! This dish freezes well. Make sure to cool it completely before placing it in a freezer-safe container. It can be stored in the freezer for up to three months. Thaw it overnight in the refrigerator and reheat before serving.

3. Is this dish suitable for kids?

Yes! Veggie pasta bake is a great way to get kids to eat their vegetables without them even realizing it. The melted cheese and flavorful sauce make it very appealing to young palates.

Final Thoughts

Veggie pasta bake is a fantastic dish that brings together flavors, textures, and nutrition all in one pan. Easy to make and customizable, it can fit any dietary needs and makes a perfect meal for the family. Give it a try, and you’ll see why it’s loved by many!

veggie pasta bake 2025 11 23 194813 150x150 1

Veggie Pasta Bake

A delicious and hearty dish combining whole wheat pasta with a colorful array of vegetables and savory cheeses, perfect for family dinners or meal prep.
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 45 minutes
Course Dinner, Main Course
Cuisine Italian, Vegetarian
Servings 6 servings
Calories 350 kcal

Ingredients
  

Pasta and Sauces

  • 12 ounces whole wheat or regular penne pasta
  • 1 cup marinara sauce Use quality marinara sauce for the best flavor.
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
  • 1 teaspoon dried basil

Vegetables

  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 medium onion, diced
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 cup broccoli florets
  • 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
  • ¼ cup chopped fresh basil For garnish.

Cheeses

  • 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
  • ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese

Instructions
 

Preparation

  • Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
  • Cook the pasta according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
  • In a large skillet over medium heat, add the olive oil. Sauté the onion and garlic until soft and fragrant, about 3 minutes.
  • Add the red and yellow bell peppers, zucchini, and broccoli. Cook for 5-6 minutes until the vegetables are tender.
  • Stir in the cherry tomatoes and cook for another 2 minutes.
  • Add the marinara sauce, oregano, basil, salt, and pepper. Mix well and let it simmer for 5 minutes.

Assembly and Baking

  • Combine the cooked pasta with the vegetable sauce mixture, then pour it into the greased baking dish.
  • Sprinkle the mozzarella and Parmesan cheeses evenly over the top.
  • Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
  • Remove from the oven, let cool slightly, and garnish with fresh basil before serving.

Notes

Leftover veggie pasta bake can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to five days. To reheat, simply place it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes or until heated through. You can also microwave individual portions for a quick reheatable meal.
Keyword comfort food, Family Meal, Healthy Pasta, vegetable bake, Veggie Pasta Bake

Similar Posts