Baked Penne Recipe Vegetarian: Easy and Delicious Dish

If you’re searching for a hearty, comforting dish that’s packed with flavor yet completely vegetarian, this baked penne recipe is exactly what you need. It’s a delightful combination of perfectly cooked penne pasta, rich marinara sauce, fresh vegetables, and creamy cheese baked to golden perfection.

Whether you’re cooking for family, friends, or just treating yourself to a cozy night in, this recipe brings warmth and satisfaction in every bite.

What makes this baked penne especially great is its versatility and ease of preparation. You can customize it with your favorite veggies or cheeses, and it’s a fantastic way to make a meatless meal feel indulgent and filling.

Plus, it’s perfect for meal prepping or feeding a crowd. Ready to dive into this delicious vegetarian comfort food?

Let’s get started!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This baked penne recipe is a crowd-pleaser for many reasons. First, it’s incredibly flavorful, combining a robust tomato sauce with fresh vegetables and melty cheese.

The pasta bakes into a warm, bubbly casserole that’s perfect for chilly evenings or casual dinner parties.

It’s also wonderfully adaptable — whether you want to add mushrooms, spinach, or bell peppers, or swap out cheeses, this dish accommodates it all. Plus, it’s vegetarian-friendly without compromising on richness or texture.

And best of all, it’s straightforward to make, requiring simple ingredients and easily manageable steps.

Ingredients

• 12 ounces penne pasta
• 2 cups marinara sauce (store-bought or homemade)
• 1 cup ricotta cheese
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 medium zucchini, diced
• 1 red bell pepper, diced
• 1 cup fresh spinach, roughly chopped
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
• Fresh basil leaves, for garnish (optional)

Equipment

• Large pot for boiling pasta
• Large skillet or sauté pan
• 9×13-inch baking dish
• Wooden spoon or spatula
• Mixing bowl
• Colander
• Measuring cups and spoons

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease your 9×13-inch baking dish with olive oil or non-stick spray.
2. Cook the penne pasta in a large pot of boiling salted water according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
3. Prepare the vegetables: Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté for 3-4 minutes until translucent.
4. Add the garlic, zucchini, and red bell pepper to the skillet. Cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables are tender. Stir in the fresh spinach and cook just until wilted. Season with salt, pepper, and dried oregano.
5. Combine the pasta and sauce: In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked penne, sautéed vegetables, and marinara sauce. Mix well to coat evenly.
6. Layer the cheese: Spread half of the pasta mixture into the prepared baking dish. Dollop spoonfuls of ricotta evenly over the pasta, then sprinkle half of the mozzarella and Parmesan on top.
7. Add the remaining pasta mixture as the second layer. Top with the remaining mozzarella and Parmesan cheese.
8. Bake uncovered in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly and the top is golden brown.
9. Remove from the oven and let it rest for 5 minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh basil leaves if desired.

Tips & Variations

Don’t overcook the pasta before baking; it should be just al dente as it will continue cooking in the oven.

Feel free to swap marinara sauce for your favorite tomato-based sauce, or add a hint of spice with red pepper flakes. You can also mix in other vegetables like mushrooms, eggplant, or olives for added depth.

For a vegan version, substitute ricotta and mozzarella with plant-based cheeses or cashew cream. To boost protein, add cooked lentils or chickpeas into the pasta mixture.

Want a crispy topping? Sprinkle breadcrumbs mixed with a little olive oil and Parmesan over the cheese before baking.

Nutrition Facts

Serving Suggestions

This baked penne dish pairs beautifully with a crisp side salad dressed in balsamic vinaigrette or a simple arugula salad with lemon dressing. Garlic bread or warm crusty bread, like our Hamburger Bun Sourdough Recipe, makes an excellent accompaniment to soak up any leftover sauce.

For dessert, keep the comforting vibe going with our Grandma’S Old Fashioned Bread Pudding With Vanilla Sauce Recipe. Or, if you want to keep things lighter, try a fresh fruit salad or a glass of refreshing Green Goodness Juice Recipe.

Conclusion

This vegetarian baked penne recipe is a true winner for anyone looking to enjoy a delicious, wholesome meal without meat. Its rich combination of pasta, fresh veggies, savory tomato sauce, and creamy cheeses creates a comforting dish that’s perfect for weeknights or special occasions.

The recipe’s flexibility makes it easy to customize with your favorite ingredients or dietary preferences, ensuring it becomes a staple in your meal rotation.

Plus, the leftovers taste just as good the next day, making it ideal for busy lifestyles. Whether you’re a seasoned vegetarian, a meat-eater looking to try more plant-based meals, or someone who simply loves pasta, this baked penne will satisfy your cravings and nourish your body.

Don’t forget to explore more delightful recipes like our Glazed Twist Donut Recipe for a sweet treat after dinner!

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