Baked Vegetable Pasta Recipes for Easy Weeknight Dinners

Baked vegetable pasta is a comforting and wholesome dish that brings together the best of fresh vegetables, hearty pasta, and bubbling melted cheese into one irresistible meal. Perfect for busy weeknights or weekend gatherings, this recipe is as versatile as it is delicious.

Whether you’re a seasoned cook or a kitchen newbie, you’ll find this baked vegetable pasta both satisfying and easy to prepare. It’s a fantastic way to sneak in extra veggies while enjoying the cozy textures and flavors of a baked casserole.

Plus, it lends itself beautifully to leftovers, making for quick and tasty next-day meals.

With the right combination of fresh produce, your favorite pasta, and a rich sauce, this baked vegetable pasta can become a staple in your dinner rotation. You can customize it with whatever vegetables you have on hand or prefer, making it a flexible and crowd-pleasing dish.

Read on for the full recipe, including tips to get the best bake and variations to suit every palate.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This baked vegetable pasta recipe is a celebration of wholesome ingredients and comforting flavors. Here’s why it’s sure to become one of your favorites:

• Nutritious and filling: Packed with a variety of vegetables, it’s a nutrient-dense meal that satisfies hunger and supports a healthy lifestyle.
• Easy to customize: Use whatever vegetables you love or have available, making it perfect for seasonal cooking or pantry-friendly meals.
• One-dish convenience: Everything bakes together in one pan, reducing cleanup and making it an ideal option for busy nights.
• Great for meal prep: It reheats beautifully, so you can make a big batch and enjoy it over several days.
• Comfort food with a healthy twist: The cheesy topping adds indulgence without overwhelming the fresh vegetable flavors.

Ingredients

• 12 oz (340g) penne or rigatoni pasta
• 2 cups zucchini, diced
• 1 cup bell peppers (red, yellow or orange), chopped
• 1 cup mushrooms, sliced
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
• 1 medium onion, finely chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 cups marinara sauce
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tsp dried Italian herbs (basil, oregano, thyme)
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh basil leaves for garnish (optional)

Equipment

• Large pot for boiling pasta
• Large skillet or frying pan
• Baking dish (9×13-inch recommended)
• Wooden spoon or spatula
• Colander for draining pasta
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Grater for cheese

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). This ensures the oven is ready once your pasta and vegetables are combined.
2. 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 (usually 8-10 minutes). Drain and set aside.
3. Sauté the vegetables: In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and garlic, cooking until fragrant and translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
4. Add zucchini, bell peppers, and mushrooms: Cook the vegetables for about 5-7 minutes until they begin to soften. Season with salt, pepper, and dried Italian herbs. Stir occasionally.
5. Mix in the tomatoes: Add the halved cherry tomatoes and cook for another 2 minutes until slightly softened.
6. Combine pasta and sauce: In the skillet, add the cooked pasta and marinara sauce. Stir well to coat all the pasta and vegetables evenly.
7. Transfer to baking dish: Pour the pasta and vegetable mixture into your prepared baking dish, spreading it out evenly.
8. Add cheese topping: Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella and grated Parmesan evenly over the top.
9. Bake: Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake uncovered for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and golden brown.
10. Garnish and serve: Remove from oven and let it cool slightly. Garnish with fresh basil leaves if desired, then serve warm.

Tips & Variations

“For extra flavor, try roasting your vegetables before mixing them with the pasta. It adds a delicious caramelized depth!”

• Vegan option: Swap out dairy cheese for a vegan cheese alternative or nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor without dairy.
• Gluten-free pasta: Use your favorite gluten-free pasta to make this dish suitable for gluten sensitivities.
• Add protein: Incorporate cooked chickpeas, tofu cubes, or tempeh for a plant-based protein boost.
• Change the veggies: Try spinach, kale, eggplant, or broccoli depending on your preference or seasonal availability.
• Spice it up: Add red chili flakes or a dash of homemade chili powder to the sauce for a little heat.

Nutrition Facts

Serving Suggestions

This baked vegetable pasta pairs wonderfully with a crisp green salad, such as a Caesar or mixed greens with a lemon vinaigrette. Garlic bread or a crusty baguette also complements the meal perfectly, helping to soak up any extra sauce.

For a lighter approach, enjoy this dish alongside steamed or roasted vegetables like asparagus or green beans. If you want to turn this into a heartier feast, serve with a side of grilled tofu or a simple bean salad.

Don’t miss trying other vegetable-forward meals like our A to Z Vegetarian Recipes for Every Meal and Occasion or explore Amazing Vegan Pasta Recipes for Easy Delicious Meals for more inspiration.

Conclusion

This baked vegetable pasta recipe is a versatile, nutritious, and delicious way to enjoy pasta and vegetables all in one comforting dish. Its ease of preparation and ability to adapt to whatever vegetables and cheeses you have on hand make it a perfect meal for busy families or anyone looking to enjoy a wholesome dinner.

The combination of vibrant veggies, flavorful marinara, and cheesy topping creates a satisfying texture and taste that appeals to all ages.

Whether you’re cooking for yourself, your family, or hosting friends, this dish is sure to impress with minimal effort. Don’t hesitate to experiment with different vegetables and seasonings to make it uniquely yours.

For more vegetarian and vegan meal ideas, check out our Ancient Grains Vegetarian Recipes for Healthy Delicious Meals and keep exploring the joy of plant-based cooking!

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