Best Veg Pasta Bake Recipe for Easy Weeknight Dinners

If you’re searching for a comfort food classic that’s packed with flavor, wholesome veggies, and gooey cheese, look no further than the best veg pasta bake recipe. This dish is a perfect blend of tender pasta, a medley of fresh vegetables, and a luscious tomato sauce topped with melted mozzarella and parmesan.

Whether you’re cooking for family, friends, or just treating yourself, this hearty bake is guaranteed to satisfy and impress. It’s incredibly versatile, easy to prepare ahead, and makes fantastic leftovers.

Plus, it’s a great way to sneak in your daily dose of veggies without sacrificing taste or texture. So, get ready to dive into this deliciously cheesy, veggie-packed pasta bake that’s sure to become a staple in your kitchen!

Not only is this recipe super tasty, but it’s also perfect for busy weeknights or cozy weekend dinners. If you want to explore more recipes that bring warmth and comfort to your table, check out our Kosher Lasagna Recipe or the delightful Meatballs And Alfredo Sauce Recipe for more inspiration.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This veg pasta bake is a versatile crowd-pleaser that ticks all the boxes. It’s:

• Loaded with nutritious vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, mushrooms, and spinach that add texture and vibrant color.
• Comforting and cheesy thanks to a rich blend of mozzarella, parmesan, and creamy béchamel sauce.
• Easy to customize – swap or add your favorite veggies or plant-based proteins.
• Perfect for meal prep as it reheats beautifully and tastes even better the next day.
• Kid-friendly and great for picky eaters when you hide the veggies under a cheesy crust.

Plus, it’s a fantastic way to use up leftover veggies and pantry staples, making it an economical and sustainable meal choice.

Ingredients

• 300g dried pasta (penne, rigatoni, or fusilli work best)
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1 medium onion, finely chopped
• 3 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 red bell pepper, diced
• 1 yellow bell pepper, diced
• 1 medium zucchini, sliced into half-moons
• 150g mushrooms, sliced
• 3 cups fresh spinach, roughly chopped
• 400g canned chopped tomatoes
• 2 tbsp tomato paste
• 1 tsp dried oregano
• 1 tsp dried basil
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
• 1 cup grated mozzarella cheese
• ½ cup grated parmesan cheese
• For the béchamel sauce:
• 3 tbsp unsalted butter
• 3 tbsp all-purpose flour
• 3 cups milk (whole or 2%)
• Salt, pepper, and a pinch of nutmeg

Equipment

• Large pot for boiling pasta
• Large frying pan or skillet
• Medium saucepan (for béchamel sauce)
• Wooden spoon or spatula
• 9×13 inch baking dish
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Cheese grater

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F). Grease the baking dish lightly with olive oil or cooking spray.
2. Cook the pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook until just al dente (usually 1-2 minutes less than package instructions). Drain and set aside.
3. Sauté the vegetables: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the onion and garlic, cooking for 3-4 minutes until softened and fragrant. Add bell peppers, zucchini, and mushrooms and cook another 5-7 minutes until tender. Stir in the spinach and cook until wilted.
4. Add tomatoes and seasonings: Stir in the canned tomatoes, tomato paste, oregano, basil, salt, and pepper. Let the sauce simmer gently for 10 minutes, stirring occasionally until thickened.
5. Prepare the béchamel sauce: In a medium 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, continuing to whisk until the sauce thickens and coats the back of a spoon (about 5-7 minutes). Season with salt, pepper, and a pinch of nutmeg.
6. Combine pasta and sauce: In the large pot or mixing bowl, combine the cooked pasta, vegetable tomato sauce, and béchamel sauce. Mix well to evenly coat the pasta and veggies.
7. Assemble the bake: Pour half of the pasta mixture into the prepared baking dish. Sprinkle half the mozzarella and parmesan cheese over the top. Add the remaining pasta mixture and top with the remaining cheese.
8. Bake: Place in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes until the cheese is golden brown and bubbling.
9. Rest and serve: Remove from the oven and let sit for 5-10 minutes before serving. This allows the bake to set for easier slicing.

Tips & Variations

“For extra flavor, try adding a splash of red wine to the tomato sauce or sprinkle some chili flakes for a subtle kick.”

• Make it vegan: Use plant-based milk and vegan cheese alternatives for the béchamel and topping.
• Add protein: Toss in cooked chickpeas, lentils, or plant-based sausage before baking.
• Use different veggies: Swap zucchini for eggplant, or add roasted butternut squash or carrots for sweetness.
• Make ahead: Prepare up to the baking step, cover with foil, and refrigerate overnight. Bake directly from the fridge, adding a few extra minutes.
• Extra crispy topping: Mix breadcrumbs with parmesan and olive oil, sprinkle on top before baking for a crunchy finish.

Nutrition Facts

Serving Suggestions

This veg pasta bake pairs wonderfully with a crisp green salad dressed with lemon vinaigrette or a simple garlic bread to soak up every last bit of cheesy sauce. For a heartier meal, serve alongside steamed green beans or roasted asparagus.

Looking for more ways to enjoy Italian-inspired comfort food? Try our Kosher Lasagna Recipe or indulge in the creamy goodness of our Meatballs And Alfredo Sauce Recipe.

For a fresh, veggie-packed alternative, check out the Kosher Sushi Salad Recipe.

Conclusion

The best veg pasta bake recipe is a true crowd-pleaser that brings together wholesome ingredients and comforting flavors in one delicious dish. It’s ideal for anyone looking to enjoy a satisfying vegetarian meal without compromising on taste or texture.

This recipe is wonderfully flexible, making it easy to customize with whatever veggies you have on hand or to adapt to dietary preferences.

Perfect for busy weeknights, potlucks, or meal prepping for the week ahead, this pasta bake will quickly become a favorite in your recipe collection. Its cheesy, saucy, and veggie-filled goodness makes it a meal that everyone will love.

So, grab your ingredients, get cooking, and enjoy the warm, comforting flavors of this delightful veg pasta bake!

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