Cheesy Pasta and Vegetable Bake Recipes for Easy Dinners

Nothing brings comfort and joy to the dinner table quite like a warm, cheesy pasta and vegetable bake. This dish combines the best of both worlds: creamy, melted cheese layered generously over tender pasta and a colorful medley of fresh vegetables.

It’s an ideal meal for busy weeknights, potlucks, or cozy weekend dinners with family and friends. The beauty of a cheesy pasta and vegetable bake lies in its versatility—you can customize it with your favorite veggies, cheeses, and herbs to suit your taste and dietary preferences.

Whether you’re a seasoned cook or a kitchen novice, this recipe is straightforward and rewarding. It also offers a great way to sneak in more vegetables while indulging in that irresistible gooey cheese goodness.

Plus, the leftovers reheat beautifully, making it perfect for meal prep or next-day lunches. Ready to dive into this delicious, crowd-pleasing recipe?

Let’s get started!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Cheesy pasta and vegetable bakes are the epitome of comfort food with a nutritious twist. This recipe is packed with fresh vegetables, providing a boost of vitamins and fiber, while the cheese delivers that creamy, savory flavor everyone craves.

It’s an all-in-one dish that requires minimal effort but yields maximum satisfaction.

The recipe is incredibly flexible—you can use any seasonal vegetables you have on hand, from broccoli and bell peppers to zucchini and spinach. It’s also a fantastic way to use up leftover pasta.

Plus, it’s a crowd-pleaser that works well for picky eaters and can be easily adapted for vegetarian or gluten-free diets.

And if you’re passionate about exploring more vegetarian delights, don’t forget to check out our A to Z Vegetarian Recipes for Every Meal and Occasion and Ancient Grains Vegetarian Recipes for Healthy Delicious Meals for more inspiration.

Ingredients

• 300g pasta (penne, fusilli, or rigatoni work great)
• 2 cups mixed vegetables (broccoli florets, bell peppers, zucchini, carrots, or spinach)
• 2 cups shredded cheese (cheddar, mozzarella, or a blend)
• 1 cup milk (whole or plant-based for creaminess)
• 2 tbsp butter
• 2 tbsp all-purpose flour
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1/4 tsp black pepper
• 1 tsp dried Italian herbs (oregano, basil, thyme mix)
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional, for topping)
• Olive oil (for sautéing vegetables)

Equipment

• Large pot (for boiling pasta)
• Large skillet or frying pan
• Baking dish (about 9×13 inches)
• Mixing bowls
• Wooden spoon or spatula
• Whisk
• Colander
• Measuring cups and spoons

Instructions

1. Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. Sauté the Vegetables: Heat a drizzle of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and garlic, sautéing until fragrant and translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add the Mixed Vegetables: Toss in your chosen vegetables and cook until just tender, about 5-7 minutes. Season with salt, pepper, and dried Italian herbs. Remove from heat.
4. Make the Cheese Sauce: In a separate saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Whisk in the flour and cook for 1-2 minutes to form a roux. Gradually whisk in the milk, stirring constantly until the mixture thickens, about 5 minutes.
5. Add Cheese to Sauce: Remove the sauce from heat and stir in 1 ½ cups of shredded cheese until melted and smooth. Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Combine Pasta, Veggies, and Cheese Sauce: In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked pasta, sautéed vegetables, and cheese sauce. Mix well to coat evenly.
7. Assemble the Bake: Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F). Transfer the pasta mixture into the baking dish. Sprinkle the remaining ½ cup shredded cheese and Parmesan on top for a golden crust.
8. Bake: Bake uncovered for 20-25 minutes or until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown on top.
9. Serve: Remove from oven and let it rest for 5 minutes before serving. This allows the bake to set and makes it easier to portion.

Tips & Variations

“For extra flavor, add a pinch of chili flakes or a dash of smoked paprika to the cheese sauce.”

– Feel free to swap out the vegetables based on what’s in season or your preferences. Mushrooms, peas, or even corn work beautifully.

– To make this dish gluten-free, use gluten-free pasta and swap the all-purpose flour for a gluten-free alternative like rice flour or cornstarch.

– For a richer sauce, add a dollop of cream cheese or a splash of white wine to the cheese sauce.

– Looking for a vegan twist? Check out our Cauliflower Vegan Cheese Sauce Recipe for Easy Dips and Amazing Vegan Pasta Recipes for Easy Delicious Meals to learn how to make this dish dairy-free without sacrificing flavor.

Nutrition Facts

Serving Suggestions

This cheesy pasta and vegetable bake pairs wonderfully with a fresh green salad dressed lightly with lemon vinaigrette. You can also serve it alongside garlic bread or warm dinner rolls for a complete, satisfying meal.

For a lighter option, complement it with steamed green beans or a simple cucumber and tomato salad. If you want to add a protein boost, a side of grilled tofu or chickpeas seasoned with your favorite spices works beautifully.

Don’t forget to explore more fantastic vegetarian dishes such as Best Vegetarian Recipes No Dairy for Delicious Meals to diversify your dinner table with wholesome, tasty options.

Conclusion

Cheesy pasta and vegetable bakes are a timeless comfort food that brings warmth and satisfaction to any meal. This recipe is not only simple and quick to prepare but also highly adaptable to suit your personal tastes and dietary needs.

By incorporating a variety of fresh vegetables, it balances indulgence with nutrition, making it a wholesome choice for the whole family.

Whether you are feeding a hungry crowd or enjoying a cozy night in, this dish delivers on flavor, texture, and heartiness. Its versatility means you can experiment with different cheeses, veggies, or even try plant-based versions to keep things exciting.

For more delicious and easy vegetarian recipes, don’t forget to visit our collection of Amazing Vegan Pasta Recipes for Easy Delicious Meals and discover new favorites that will keep your taste buds happy and your meals nutritious!

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