Vegetable Pasta Bake Recipe

If you’re looking for a cozy, comforting dish that will please both veggie lovers and meat-eaters alike, then this Vegetable Pasta Bake Recipe is just what you need! It’s filled with colorful vegetables and creamy goodness that come together beautifully. Perfect for busy weeknights or family gatherings, this dish is not only delicious but also so easy to whip up. I can’t wait for you to try it!

This recipe has become a staple in my home; the kids love it, and I feel good knowing they’re getting their veggies. Plus, it’s one of those meals that makes the whole house smell amazing while it bakes. You’ll find yourself wanting seconds!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Super Easy to Prepare: With just a few simple steps, you can have this hearty meal ready to go without spending hours in the kitchen.
• Packed with Veggies: This bake is loaded with wholesome vegetables, making it a delicious way to sneak in those nutrients.
• Family-Friendly Appeal: Even the pickiest eaters will enjoy this comforting dish—it’s that good!
• Make-Ahead Convenience: You can prepare it in advance and pop it in the oven when you’re ready to serve. Perfect for meal prep!
• Deliciously Cheesy: The combination of cheddar and mozzarella creates a gooey topping that everyone loves.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s gather our simple and wholesome ingredients for this delightful Vegetable Pasta Bake Recipe! These familiar items are likely already in your pantry or fridge, making this recipe an easy choice for dinner.

For the Pasta Bake

• 400 g (14 oz) dried pasta shapes (I used rigatoni)
• 1 tbsp vegetable oil
• 1 large red onion (peeled and chopped into wedges)
• 1 red bell pepper (de-seeded and chopped into large chunks)
• 1 yellow bell pepper (de-seeded and chopped into large chunks)
• 1 large or 2 small courgettes (zucchini, chopped into chunks)
• 1/4 tsp salt
• 1/4 tsp pepper
• 2 cloves garlic (peeled and minced)
• 1 tbsp tomato puree (paste for US)
• ½ tsp dried oregano
• ½ tsp dried thyme
• 2 x 400 g (2 x 14 oz) tinned chopped tomatoes
• 120 ml (1/2 cup) double (heavy) cream
• 100 g (3 packed cups) fresh baby spinach
• 100 g (1 cup) strong cheddar cheese (grated)
• 100 g (1 cup) mozzarella cheese (grated)
• small bunch parsley (roughly torn)

Variations

One of the best things about this Vegetable Pasta Bake Recipe is its flexibility! You can easily adjust it based on what you have on hand or your personal taste preferences.

• Add More Greens: Toss in some broccoli or kale for extra color and nutrition.
• Change Up the Cheese: Swap out cheddar and mozzarella for your favorite cheese blend or try adding feta for a tangy twist.
• Mix in Protein: Add cooked lentils or chickpeas for a protein boost without any meat.
• Spice It Up: If you like heat, add some chili flakes or diced jalapeños to kick things up a notch.

How to Make Vegetable Pasta Bake Recipe

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 190C/375F (fan). This step is crucial as it ensures that your pasta bake cooks evenly and develops that golden top we all love.

Step 2: Cook the Pasta

Boil a large pan of water and cook your pasta for 1 minute less than what’s indicated on the package. Draining slightly undercooked pasta helps it absorb more flavor from the sauce later!

Step 3: Sauté the Onions

While your pasta is cooking, heat vegetable oil in a large frying pan over medium heat. Add the red onion and sauté for 3-4 minutes until it starts to soften. This brings out its natural sweetness, adding depth to our dish.

Step 4: Add the Veggies

Now it’s time to add those vibrant vegetables! Toss in the red and yellow bell peppers, courgette, salt, pepper, garlic, tomato puree, oregano, and thyme. Stir everything together and cook for another 2-3 minutes until fragrant.

Step 5: Combine with Sauce

Stir in the tinned chopped tomatoes and cream. Bring everything to a gentle bubble—this step melds all those delicious flavors together nicely.

Step 6: Mix It All Together

Once your pasta is cooked, drain it well then add both the pasta and fresh baby spinach to your veggie sauce. Give everything a good stir until combined before transferring it all into a large baking dish.

Step 7: Top with Cheese

Sprinkle grated cheddar and mozzarella evenly across the top of your pasta bake. This cheesy goodness will create that irresistible bubbly crust as it bakes!

Step 8: Bake Until Golden

Place your baking dish in the oven for about 20-25 minutes until the cheese is golden brown. The aroma wafting through your kitchen will be simply divine!

Step 9: Garnish and Serve

Once baked to perfection, take out of the oven and sprinkle with torn parsley before serving. Enjoy every bite of this comforting Vegetable Pasta Bake!

Pro Tips for Making Vegetable Pasta Bake Recipe

Making this Vegetable Pasta Bake is a breeze, and with these handy tips, you’ll elevate your dish to perfection!

• Prep your veggies ahead of time: Slicing and chopping your vegetables in advance will save you precious time during cooking and ensure everything cooks evenly.

• Experiment with cheese: Feel free to mix different types of cheese based on your preference. Using a blend can create a richer flavor profile and make the dish even more irresistible.

• Add extra veggies: Don’t hesitate to sneak in more vegetables like mushrooms, broccoli, or kale. This not only boosts the nutritional value but also adds vibrant colors and textures.

• Make it spicy: If you enjoy a little heat, consider adding red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños to the vegetable mix. It will give your bake a delightful kick!

• Let it rest before serving: Allowing the pasta bake to sit for about 5-10 minutes after removing it from the oven helps all the flavors meld together and makes it easier to serve.

How to Serve Vegetable Pasta Bake Recipe

This Vegetable Pasta Bake is such a comforting dish that it’s perfect for family dinners or casual gatherings. When presenting this hearty meal, consider these simple serving ideas!

Garnishes

• Fresh basil leaves: A sprinkle of torn basil adds a lovely aroma and vibrant color to your dish.
• Grated Parmesan cheese: For an extra cheesy touch, add some grated Parmesan on top just before serving for a burst of flavor.

Side Dishes

• Garlic Bread: A classic choice that complements the pasta bake beautifully. The buttery garlic flavor pairs perfectly with the cheesy goodness.

• Mixed Green Salad: A light salad with fresh greens, cherry tomatoes, and a tangy vinaigrette balances out the richness of the pasta bake and adds freshness to your meal.

• Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal roasted veggies bring additional flavor and nutrients; try roasting carrots, zucchini, or asparagus drizzled with olive oil and herbs.

• Steamed Broccoli: This simple side dish adds crunch and color while being an excellent source of vitamins—perfect for those who want something healthy alongside their comfort food.

Enjoy every bite of this delicious Vegetable Pasta Bake! Whether you’re sharing it with loved ones or savoring it solo, it’s sure to become a favorite in your recipe collection.

Make Ahead and Storage

This Vegetable Pasta Bake is not only delicious but also perfect for meal prep! You can easily make it ahead of time and store it for later, ensuring you have a comforting meal ready when you need it.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the pasta bake to cool completely before storing.
• Transfer leftovers to an airtight container.
• Refrigerate for up to 3-4 days.

Freezing

• Let the dish cool completely before freezing.
• Portion into freezer-safe containers or wrap tightly with plastic wrap and aluminum foil.
• Freeze for up to 2-3 months.

Reheating

• Thaw overnight in the refrigerator if frozen.
• Reheat in the oven at 180C/350F until heated through (about 20-25 minutes).
• For quicker reheating, use the microwave, heating in intervals until hot.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about the Vegetable Pasta Bake Recipe!

Can I make this Vegetable Pasta Bake Recipe gluten-free?

Absolutely! Simply substitute the dried pasta with your favorite gluten-free pasta. The rest of the ingredients are naturally gluten-free, making it easy to enjoy this dish without worry.

How can I customize my Vegetable Pasta Bake Recipe?

Feel free to add your favorite vegetables or swap out cheeses based on your preference. Broccoli, mushrooms, or even artichokes would work beautifully!

Is this Vegetable Pasta Bake Recipe suitable for meal prep?

Yes! This recipe is fantastic for meal prep as it stores well in the fridge and can be frozen for later. Just follow our storage tips above!

Final Thoughts

I hope you find joy in making this Vegetable Pasta Bake Recipe! It’s a hearty and satisfying dish that brings warmth and comfort to any dinner table. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or enjoying cozy nights at home, this recipe is sure to please everyone. Happy cooking!