Cheesy Vegetable Pasta Recipe for Easy Weeknight Dinners

Pasta lovers, rejoice! If you’re looking for a comforting, wholesome dish that combines the goodness of fresh vegetables with a rich, gooey cheesy sauce, this Cheesy Vegetable Pasta Recipe is exactly what you need.

It’s the perfect balance of creamy and crunchy, packed with vibrant veggies that add texture, color, and nutrition to every bite. Whether you’re cooking for a busy weeknight dinner or a casual get-together, this recipe is incredibly easy to make and sure to impress.

Plus, it’s versatile enough to suit various dietary preferences and can be customized with your favorite vegetables or cheese alternatives.

This dish not only satisfies your craving for something cheesy and indulgent but also sneaks in a healthy dose of vegetables, making it a well-rounded meal. The creamy cheese sauce clings beautifully to al dente pasta, while the sautéed vegetables add brightness and freshness.

If you want to explore more vegetarian delights, check out our A to Z Vegetarian Recipes for Every Meal and Occasion for endless inspiration.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This recipe is a total winner for many reasons:

• Quick and Easy: Ready in under 30 minutes, perfect for busy days.
• Nutritious: Loaded with a variety of vegetables, it’s a healthy comfort meal.
• Customizable: Swap in your favorite veggies or cheese to suit your taste or dietary needs.
• Family-Friendly: Appeals to kids and adults alike with its creamy, cheesy goodness.
• Great Leftovers: Tastes even better the next day and reheats well.

Ingredients

• 8 oz (225g) pasta (penne, fusilli, or rotini work great)
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 cup broccoli florets, chopped into bite-sized pieces
• 1 medium red bell pepper, diced
• 1 medium zucchini, sliced
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 cup heavy cream or half-and-half
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
• ½ teaspoon dried Italian seasoning
• Fresh basil leaves, chopped (for garnish)
• Optional: Red pepper flakes for a spicy kick

Equipment

• Large pot for boiling pasta
• Large skillet or sauté pan
• Colander or strainer
• Wooden spoon or spatula
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Cheese grater (if shredding cheese yourself)

Instructions

1. Cook the pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook according to the package instructions until al dente. Reserve ½ cup of the pasta water, then drain the pasta in a colander.
2. Sauté the vegetables: While the pasta cooks, heat the olive oil over medium heat in a large skillet. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
3. Add broccoli, bell pepper, and zucchini: Cook, stirring occasionally, for 5-7 minutes until the vegetables are just tender but still vibrant and slightly crisp.
4. Add cherry tomatoes: Stir in the cherry tomatoes and cook for another 2 minutes until they start to soften.
5. Make the cheese sauce: Pour in the heavy cream and bring to a gentle simmer. Reduce the heat to low and gradually stir in the mozzarella and Parmesan cheeses until melted and smooth.
6. Season the sauce: Add the Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper to taste. If the sauce is too thick, add a splash of the reserved pasta water to loosen it up.
7. Toss pasta and sauce: Add the drained pasta to the skillet and gently toss to coat the pasta evenly with the cheesy vegetable sauce. Heat through for 1-2 minutes.
8. Garnish and serve: Remove from heat, sprinkle with chopped fresh basil and optional red pepper flakes, then serve immediately.

Tips & Variations

“Use fresh, seasonal vegetables for the best flavor and texture. If you want to make this recipe vegan, substitute the cheese with a plant-based alternative and use coconut cream or cashew cream instead of heavy cream.”

• Swap the veggies: Try mushrooms, spinach, asparagus, or peas as alternatives or additions.
• Make it spicy: Add crushed red pepper flakes or a dash of your favorite hot sauce.
• Cheese variations: For a sharper flavor, mix in some cheddar or gouda.
• Protein boost: Add cooked chickpeas or white beans for extra protein.
• Gluten-free: Use gluten-free pasta to make this recipe suitable for gluten-sensitive diets.

Nutrition Facts

Serving Suggestions

This cheesy vegetable pasta pairs beautifully with a crisp side salad dressed in a light vinaigrette for a fresh contrast. Garlic bread or a warm crusty baguette is also a wonderful accompaniment to soak up any extra sauce.

For a complete meal, serve alongside a light vegetable soup or a simple roasted vegetable platter. If you enjoy exploring plant-based options, you might also appreciate our Amazing Vegan Pasta Recipes for Easy Delicious Meals to discover other delicious pasta ideas.

Conclusion

This Cheesy Vegetable Pasta recipe is a fantastic way to enjoy a comforting, cheesy meal without sacrificing your veggies. It’s simple enough for a weeknight dinner yet impressive enough to serve guests.

The combination of fresh vegetables and creamy cheese sauce creates a dish that’s both nutritious and indulgent, making it a versatile addition to your recipe collection.

Whether you’re a seasoned cook or just starting out, this recipe is approachable and adaptable, so feel free to make it your own. Don’t forget to explore more healthy and delicious recipes like our Best Vegetarian Recipes No Dairy for Delicious Meals and Cheap Vegetarian Recipes For Families Everyone Will Love to keep your menu exciting and wholesome.

Enjoy your cooking adventure!

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