Cheesy Vegetable Pasta Bake Recipe UK Made Easy

If you’re looking for a comforting, wholesome meal that the whole family will adore, this Cheesy Vegetable Pasta Bake is just the dish for you. Bursting with vibrant vegetables and enveloped in a luscious, golden cheese sauce, this classic UK-inspired bake is the epitome of cosy home cooking.

Whether you’re after a quick midweek dinner or a satisfying weekend treat, this recipe strikes the perfect balance between nutritious and indulgent. Plus, it’s incredibly versatile, allowing you to use whatever seasonal vegetables you have at hand.

The bubbling cheese topping is simply irresistible, making it a guaranteed crowd-pleaser.

In this blog post, I’ll walk you through every step to create a deliciously creamy pasta bake that’s packed with colourful veggies and ooey-gooey cheese. Perfect for beginners and seasoned home chefs alike, this recipe gives you the tips and tricks to elevate your pasta bake game to new heights.

Don’t forget to check out other fantastic recipes like Amazing Vegan Pasta Recipes for Easy Delicious Meals for more inspiration!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Cheesy Vegetable Pasta Bake is an all-in-one comfort food that’s as hearty as it is healthy. It’s packed with fresh vegetables, making it a great way to sneak in some extra nutrients without compromising on flavour.

The creamy cheese sauce binds everything together for a luscious texture that’s simply mouthwatering.

Another reason to love this recipe is its ease and versatility. You can customise the vegetables to suit your preferences or what’s in season.

It’s also an excellent make-ahead meal that reheats beautifully, making it ideal for busy weeknights or batch cooking. Plus, it’s vegetarian-friendly and can be adapted easily for vegan or gluten-free diets with a few simple swaps.

Finally, the golden, crispy cheese topping creates that perfect bake finish that everyone craves. It’s a recipe that brings warmth, comfort, and a touch of indulgence to your dinner table.

Ingredients

• 300g dried penne pasta (or your favourite shape)
• 1 medium red onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 red bell pepper, diced
• 1 courgette (zucchini), chopped into bite-sized pieces
• 150g broccoli florets
• 150g mushrooms, sliced
• 400ml whole milk (or plant-based alternative)
• 2 tbsp plain flour
• 50g unsalted butter (or vegan butter)
• 150g mature cheddar cheese, grated (or vegan cheese)
• 50g parmesan cheese, grated (optional)
• 1 tsp dried oregano
• 1 tsp dried basil
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Equipment

• Large saucepan for boiling pasta
• Frying pan or skillet
• Whisk
• Ovenproof baking dish (about 20x30cm)
• Wooden spoon or spatula
• Grater for cheese
• Measuring jug and spoons
• Colander for draining pasta

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 190°C (170°C fan) / 375°F / Gas Mark 5. This ensures the oven is ready to bake your pasta to golden perfection.
2. Cook the pasta: Bring a large saucepan of salted water to a boil. Add the penne and cook for 8-10 minutes until just al dente. Drain the pasta in a colander and set aside.
3. Sauté the vegetables: Heat the olive oil in a large frying pan over medium heat. Add the red onion and garlic and cook for 2-3 minutes until soft and fragrant.
4. Add the bell pepper, courgette, broccoli, and mushrooms to the pan. Cook for another 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables are tender but still have a slight bite.
5. Make the cheese sauce (béchamel): In a separate saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Whisk in the flour and cook for 1-2 minutes to form a roux, stirring constantly to avoid lumps.
6. Gradually add the milk, whisking continuously until the sauce thickens to a creamy consistency, about 5 minutes. Remove from heat.
7. Stir in 100g of the grated cheddar cheese until melted and smooth. Season with salt, pepper, oregano, and basil to taste.
8. Combine pasta and vegetables: Add the cooked pasta and sautéed vegetables to the cheese sauce. Mix gently to combine everything evenly.
9. Assemble the bake: Transfer the mixture into your ovenproof baking dish. Sprinkle the remaining 50g cheddar and parmesan cheese evenly over the top for a wonderfully cheesy crust.
10. Bake: Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the top is golden and bubbling.
11. Once baked, remove from the oven and let it rest for 5 minutes before serving. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley for a pop of colour and freshness.

Tips & Variations

“For a vegan twist, swap the dairy milk and cheeses with plant-based alternatives. Nutritional yeast can add an extra cheesy flavour if you prefer dairy-free.”

You can easily adapt this pasta bake to suit what you have on hand. Swap broccoli for green beans or peas, and add some baby spinach or kale for extra greens.

If you like a bit of heat, sprinkle in some chilli flakes or a dash of smoked paprika.

For gluten-free versions, use gluten-free pasta and replace the flour in the cheese sauce with a gluten-free alternative like rice flour or cornstarch. You can also add a crunchy topping of breadcrumbs mixed with a little olive oil or vegan butter for an added texture contrast.

Don’t hesitate to experiment with herbs and spices. Fresh thyme or rosemary can add an aromatic depth, or try mixing in some sun-dried tomatoes for a tangy punch.

Nutrition Facts

Serving Suggestions

This pasta bake is a hearty meal on its own, but for a more rounded dinner, consider pairing it with a crisp side salad of mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a tangy balsamic dressing. Garlic bread or crusty farmhouse bread also complements the creamy texture beautifully.

For lighter accompaniments, steamed green beans or a simple cucumber and radish salad can provide a refreshing contrast. In colder months, a bowl of homemade soup like the Vegan Fall Soup Recipes To Warm Your Cozy Evenings is a perfect starter before digging into this cheesy bake.

Conclusion

This Cheesy Vegetable Pasta Bake is a staple in British comfort food, offering a perfect blend of wholesome vegetables, creamy cheese sauce, and satisfying pasta. It’s a dish that’s easy to prepare, adaptable to your preferred ingredients, and loved by all ages.

Whether you’re feeding a family or meal prepping for the week ahead, this pasta bake ticks all the boxes for flavour, nutrition, and convenience.

Don’t hesitate to experiment with different vegetables or cheeses to make it your own. If you enjoyed this recipe, be sure to explore other delicious options like A to Z Vegetarian Recipes for Every Meal and Occasion or Best Vegetarian Recipes No Dairy for Delicious Meals to keep your cooking exciting and varied.

Happy baking!

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