Cheese Pasta Shell Casserole Vegetables Recipes Made Easy

If you’re looking for a comforting, wholesome meal that combines the creamy goodness of cheese with the heartiness of pasta and the freshness of vegetables, then this Cheese Pasta Shell Casserole with Vegetables recipe is your new go-to dish.

Perfect for cozy weeknight dinners or casual gatherings, this casserole offers a delightful medley of flavors and textures that will satisfy both kids and adults alike. The large pasta shells are stuffed with a rich blend of cheeses and sautéed vegetables, then baked to golden perfection with extra cheese melted on top.

It’s an easy-to-make, crowd-pleasing casserole that brings together nutritious ingredients in a delicious, family-friendly format.

Not only does this recipe make for a filling meal, but it’s also wonderfully versatile. You can swap vegetables based on what’s in season or what you have on hand, making it ideal for minimizing food waste.

Plus, it reheats beautifully, so leftovers are a delight rather than a chore. Whether you’re a vegetarian looking for a satisfying dinner or simply want a cheesy, veggie-packed pasta bake, this recipe ticks all the boxes.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Cheese Pasta Shell Casserole with Vegetables is a perfect blend of comfort food and nutritious ingredients. The creamy cheese filling paired with tender vegetables wrapped in pasta shells creates a rich, satisfying dish that feels indulgent without being heavy.

It’s a fantastic way to sneak in extra veggies for picky eaters, and the baked crust on top adds a delightful texture contrast.

One of the best parts about this casserole is its simplicity. With a handful of fresh and pantry staples, you can whip up a meal that looks impressive but requires minimal effort.

It’s also highly adaptable; you can customize the cheeses, add herbs, or incorporate different veggies to suit your taste or dietary needs.

Lastly, this casserole stores well and can be prepared in advance. Perfect for busy families or meal prepping enthusiasts, it brings ease and joy to your dinner table.

Ingredients

• 12 large pasta shells
• 2 cups ricotta cheese
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese, plus extra for topping
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 medium zucchini, diced
• 1 red bell pepper, diced
• 1 cup fresh spinach, chopped
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup marinara sauce
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh basil leaves for garnish (optional)

Equipment

• Large pot for boiling pasta
• Large skillet for sautéing vegetables
• Mixing bowl for combining cheese filling
• Baking dish (approximately 9×13 inches)
• Wooden spoon or spatula
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Colander for draining pasta

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease the baking dish with a bit of olive oil or nonstick spray.
2. Cook the pasta shells: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta shells and cook according to package instructions until al dente (usually about 10 minutes). Drain and rinse under cold water to stop cooking. Set aside.
3. Sauté the vegetables: Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and garlic and sauté for 2-3 minutes until fragrant and translucent.
4. Add diced zucchini and red bell pepper: Cook for another 5 minutes until the vegetables are tender. Stir in the chopped spinach and cook for 1-2 minutes until wilted. Season with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. Remove from heat and let cool slightly.
5. Prepare the cheese filling: In a mixing bowl, combine ricotta cheese, shredded mozzarella, Parmesan cheese, and the sautéed vegetables. Mix well until evenly combined.
6. Stuff the shells: Carefully fill each cooked pasta shell with the cheese and vegetable mixture. You can use a spoon or your fingers to stuff them generously.
7. Assemble the casserole: Spread half of the marinara sauce on the bottom of the prepared baking dish. Arrange the stuffed shells in a single layer over the sauce.
8. Top with remaining sauce: Pour the remaining marinara sauce evenly over the shells. Sprinkle additional shredded mozzarella cheese on top for a golden cheesy crust.
9. Bake: Cover the baking dish with foil and bake in the preheated oven for 25 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for another 10-15 minutes until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown.
10. Garnish and serve: Let the casserole cool for 5 minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh basil leaves, if desired.

Tips & Variations

“Make sure your vegetables are well cooked and not too watery before mixing with the cheese to avoid a soggy casserole.”

• Vegetable swaps: Feel free to use mushrooms, broccoli florets, or roasted eggplant instead of zucchini and bell pepper.
• Cheese alternatives: For a sharper taste, add some crumbled feta or swap ricotta for cottage cheese.
• Make it vegan: Try vegan ricotta and mozzarella substitutes, and use a plant-based marinara sauce. For more vegan pasta recipes, check out Amazing Vegan Pasta Recipes for Easy Delicious Meals.
• Extra flavor: Stir in fresh herbs like oregano or thyme into the cheese filling for added depth.
• Meal prep: You can assemble the casserole a day ahead, refrigerate it, then bake when ready.

Nutrition Facts

Serving Suggestions

This hearty casserole pairs wonderfully with a crisp green salad tossed with a light vinaigrette. You could also serve it alongside garlic bread or roasted vegetables for a more substantial meal.

For a refreshing contrast, try a simple cucumber and tomato salad with lemon and fresh herbs. A glass of chilled white wine or sparkling water with lemon slices also complements the creamy, cheesy flavors beautifully.

If you love this recipe and want to explore more wholesome vegetarian meals, check out our A to Z Vegetarian Recipes for Every Meal and Occasion for endless inspiration.

Conclusion

The Cheese Pasta Shell Casserole with Vegetables is a delightful, comforting dish that brings together the best of cheesy indulgence and vibrant, nutritious vegetables. It’s ideal for busy weeknights when you want a satisfying meal without too much fuss or for entertaining friends and family with a dish that feels special yet approachable.

The combination of textures—from the tender pasta shells to the creamy cheese filling and the slight crisp on top—makes every bite memorable.

With its flexibility to accommodate different vegetables and cheeses, this casserole can easily become a staple in your recipe rotation. Plus, it’s a great way to encourage more vegetable consumption without sacrificing flavor or satisfaction.

Whether you’re a seasoned vegetarian or simply looking to add more plant-based meals to your diet, this recipe is sure to please.

For more creative and delicious vegetarian dishes, don’t forget to explore our collection of Ancient Grains Vegetarian Recipes for Healthy Delicious Meals and learn how to spice things up with our Chilli Powder Recipe Vegan: Easy Homemade Spice Blend.

Happy cooking!

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