Pasta Bake Recipe Veggie: Easy, Delicious, and Healthy

If you’re looking for a comforting, hearty meal that’s packed with nutritious vegetables and bursting with flavor, this veggie pasta bake recipe is exactly what you need. Perfect for busy weeknights or cozy weekend dinners, this dish combines tender pasta, a colorful mix of garden-fresh veggies, and a rich tomato sauce all baked to golden, bubbly perfection.

It’s a wonderful way to enjoy a wholesome, vegetarian meal that even meat-eaters will love. Plus, it’s incredibly versatile, allowing you to customize the vegetables or swap in your favorite pasta shapes.

Whether you’re cooking for family or meal prepping for the week ahead, this pasta bake is guaranteed to satisfy your cravings while keeping things healthy and delicious.

Not only is this recipe simple to make, but it also offers a great way to use up leftover vegetables and pantry staples. If you’re interested in exploring more vegetarian options, be sure to check out A to Z Vegetarian Recipes for Every Meal and Occasion for endless inspiration!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This veggie pasta bake is a winner for so many reasons. First, it’s loaded with fresh vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, and spinach, making it a nutrient-rich meal that’s high in fiber and vitamins.

The pasta is perfectly cooked before baking, ensuring every bite is tender but not mushy. The homemade tomato sauce is flavorful and comforting, enhanced with herbs and a touch of garlic.

Finally, the golden crust on top adds the perfect touch of crispiness.

It’s also incredibly convenient — you can prepare it ahead of time and bake it when ready, making it ideal for meal prepping or feeding a crowd. This recipe is naturally vegetarian, and it can be easily adapted for vegan diets by using plant-based cheese alternatives.

Don’t forget to explore our Amazing Vegan Pasta Recipes for Easy Delicious Meals to try even more variations!

Ingredients

• 300g pasta (penne, fusilli, or rigatoni work great)
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 1 medium onion, finely chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 red bell pepper, diced
• 1 zucchini, sliced into half-moons
• 150g mushrooms, sliced
• 150g fresh spinach
• 1 can (400g) chopped tomatoes
• 2 tbsp tomato paste
• 1 tsp dried oregano
• 1 tsp dried basil
• Salt and black pepper to taste
• 150g shredded mozzarella cheese (or vegan cheese alternative)
• 50g grated Parmesan (optional, or use vegan substitute)
• Fresh basil leaves for garnish (optional)

Equipment

• Large pot for boiling pasta
• Large frying pan or skillet
• Wooden spoon or spatula
• Colander
• Ovenproof baking dish (around 9×13 inches)
• Measuring spoons and cups
• Sharp knife and chopping board

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F). Lightly grease your baking dish with a bit of olive oil or cooking spray.
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 and set aside.
3. Sauté the vegetables: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and garlic, cooking until softened and fragrant (about 3-4 minutes).
4. Add bell pepper, zucchini, and mushrooms to the skillet. Cook for another 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables are tender.
5. Stir in the spinach and cook until wilted, about 2 minutes. Season the mixture with dried oregano, basil, salt, and pepper.
6. Make the sauce: Add the chopped tomatoes and tomato paste to the skillet. Stir well and simmer for 8-10 minutes, allowing the sauce to thicken slightly.
7. Combine pasta and sauce: Remove the skillet from heat and add the cooked pasta. Mix thoroughly until pasta is evenly coated with the sauce and vegetables.
8. Assemble the bake: Transfer the pasta mixture into the prepared baking dish. Sprinkle shredded mozzarella and Parmesan evenly over the top.
9. Bake: Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and golden brown on top.
10. Serve: Remove from oven and let rest for 5 minutes. Garnish with fresh basil leaves before serving.

Tips & Variations

Pro tip: Use whatever veggies you have on hand! Carrots, broccoli, or even cooked lentils make great additions.

For a vegan version, swap out the cheese for vegan mozzarella or a homemade cashew cheese sauce (check out our Best Vegan Cashew Cheese Sauce Recipe for Easy Meals).

For extra flavor, try adding a pinch of chilli flakes or a dash of smoked paprika. You can also sprinkle some nutritional yeast on top for a cheesy, dairy-free twist.

To save time, make the sauce and sauté the vegetables the day before, then assemble and bake when ready. Leftovers reheat wonderfully and even taste better the next day!

Nutrition Facts

Serving Suggestions

This veggie pasta bake pairs wonderfully with a crisp green salad dressed with a light vinaigrette. Roasted garlic bread or a warm focaccia also complement the dish beautifully, soaking up any extra sauce.

For a complete meal, serve alongside steamed green beans or a medley of roasted root vegetables. If you want to keep it light, a simple cucumber and tomato salad with fresh herbs works perfectly.

Looking for more easy vegetarian meals? Check out our Cheap Vegetarian Recipes For Families Everyone Will Love for budget-friendly ideas that don’t skimp on flavor.

Conclusion

Pasta bake is a timeless, comforting dish, and this veggie-packed version offers all the warmth and satisfaction you crave while keeping things fresh and nutritious. With its combination of tender pasta, vibrant vegetables, and a rich sauce topped with melty cheese, it’s a meal that brings smiles to the table every time.

Whether you’re a seasoned vegetarian or simply trying to eat more plant-based meals, this recipe is an easy way to enjoy wholesome flavors without fuss.

Don’t hesitate to experiment with different vegetables or spices to make it your own. And if you loved this pasta bake, be sure to explore more delicious vegetarian options like our Amazing Vegan Pasta Recipes for Easy Delicious Meals and Cheeseless Vegetarian Lasagna Recipe That Tastes Amazing.

Happy cooking!

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