Pasta and Vegetable Bake Recipe for Easy Family Dinners

If you’re looking for a wholesome, comforting meal that combines the heartiness of pasta with the vibrant freshness of vegetables, this pasta and vegetable bake recipe is exactly what you need. Perfect for busy weeknights or casual weekend dinners, it’s a one-dish wonder that brings together layers of tender pasta, a medley of colorful veggies, and a luscious, cheesy topping that bakes to golden perfection.

This dish is not only delicious but also incredibly versatile, allowing you to use whatever vegetables you have on hand. Whether you’re cooking for family, friends, or meal prepping for the week, this bake is sure to become a favorite in your recipe collection.

One of the best parts about this recipe is how easy it is to customize. You can make it vegetarian, add your favorite herbs and spices, or swap out the cheese for a dairy-free alternative.

The bake reheats beautifully, making it perfect for leftovers or to bring to potlucks. Dive in and discover how simple it is to create a tasty, nutritious meal that will satisfy everyone at the table.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This pasta and vegetable bake is a delightful blend of comfort and nutrition, offering a perfect balance of carbs, fiber, and protein. It’s a crowd-pleaser that looks impressive but is easy enough for even beginner cooks to master.

The combination of roasted vegetables and creamy pasta creates a satisfying texture that’s both hearty and fresh.

What makes this recipe stand out is its flexibility. You can easily swap ingredients based on preferences or what’s in your pantry.

Plus, it’s a fantastic way to sneak more vegetables into your diet without sacrificing flavor. The baked cheese crust adds a delightful golden crunch that everyone loves.

For those who prefer vegan or dairy-free options, you can adapt this recipe using plant-based cheese or nutritional yeast, making it inclusive for various dietary needs. If you enjoy exploring more creative and healthy vegetarian dishes, check out A to Z Vegetarian Recipes for Every Meal and Occasion or get inspired by Amazing Vegan Pasta Recipes for Easy Delicious Meals.

Ingredients

• 300g pasta (penne, fusilli, or rigatoni works best)
• 1 medium zucchini, diced
• 1 red bell pepper, chopped
• 1 yellow bell pepper, chopped
• 1 small eggplant, diced
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
• 1 medium onion, finely chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 cups fresh spinach, roughly chopped
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon dried basil
• 1/2 teaspoon chili flakes (optional)
• 400ml marinara or tomato sauce
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese (or vegan cheese alternative)
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh basil leaves for garnish

Equipment

• Large pot for boiling pasta
• Large skillet or frying pan for sautéing vegetables
• Baking dish (about 9×13 inches or similar size)
• Mixing bowls
• Wooden spoon or spatula
• Colander for draining pasta
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Oven mitts

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) to get it ready for baking later.
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. Drain well and set aside.
3. Prepare the vegetables: While the pasta cooks, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté for about 3-4 minutes until translucent.
4. Add the minced garlic, diced zucchini, eggplant, and bell peppers to the skillet. Cook for 7-8 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables are tender.
5. Season the vegetables: Stir in the dried oregano, basil, chili flakes (if using), salt, and pepper. Add the halved cherry tomatoes and cook for another 2 minutes until they soften slightly.
6. Combine pasta and sauce: In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked pasta, sautéed vegetables, chopped spinach, and marinara sauce. Toss everything together until well mixed.
7. Assemble the bake: Transfer the pasta and vegetable mixture into the prepared baking dish. Spread evenly and sprinkle the shredded mozzarella and Parmesan cheese over the top.
8. Bake: Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes or until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and golden brown.
9. Garnish and serve: Remove from the oven and let it cool slightly. Garnish with fresh basil leaves before serving.

Tips & Variations

“For an extra burst of flavor, roast the vegetables separately before mixing them with the pasta. This caramelizes their natural sugars and adds depth to the dish.”

If you want to make this recipe vegan, simply substitute the cheese with your favorite plant-based alternatives or sprinkle nutritional yeast on top for a cheesy flavor without dairy. You can also add cooked lentils or chickpeas for an added protein boost.

Swap the pasta shape depending on what you have – penne, rigatoni, or fusilli all work perfectly. Feel free to use seasonal vegetables like butternut squash or kale for a different twist.

For a creamy variation, stir in a half cup of ricotta or a vegan cashew cream before baking.

Want to spice things up? Check out the Chilli Powder Recipe Vegan: Easy Homemade Spice Blend for a delicious DIY spice mix that pairs beautifully with this bake.

Nutrition Facts

Serving Suggestions

This pasta and vegetable bake pairs wonderfully with a crisp green salad dressed in a light vinaigrette. For a heartier meal, serve with garlic bread or warm crusty rolls to soak up any leftover sauce.

For a light and refreshing contrast, consider a side of steamed broccoli or roasted asparagus. If you’re hosting, a chilled white wine like Sauvignon Blanc or a sparkling water with lemon complements the flavors beautifully.

Looking for more easy and delicious vegetarian meals to complete your menu? Explore these recipes: Cheap Vegetarian Recipes For Families Everyone Will Love and Baked Lasagna Recipe Vegetarian Sanjeev Kapoor Delight.

Conclusion

This pasta and vegetable bake is a fantastic recipe to add to your weekly rotation. It’s simple to prepare, packed with wholesome ingredients, and flexible enough to cater to different tastes and dietary needs.

Whether you’re feeding a family or cooking for one, it delivers comforting, nutritious satisfaction in every bite.

By incorporating a variety of vegetables, this dish not only tastes great but also offers a boost of vitamins and fiber. The melty, golden cheese topping makes it feel indulgent without being overly complicated.

Next time you want a hearty, flavorful meal that’s easy to make and hard to resist, give this bake a try. For more inspiration on vegetarian and vegan dishes, be sure to check out our extensive collection of Ancient Grains Vegetarian Recipes for Healthy Delicious Meals.

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