Vegetable Pasta Bake Recipe

If you’re looking for a warm and cozy meal that brings the whole family together, this Vegetable Pasta Bake Recipe is just what you need! It’s packed with vibrant veggies and gooey cheese, making it a dish that even the pickiest eaters will love. I’ve made this recipe countless times during busy weeknights and at family gatherings, and it never fails to impress. Plus, it’s super easy to whip up, so you can spend less time in the kitchen and more time enjoying those precious moments with your loved ones.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to prepare: With just a bit of chopping and stirring, you’ll have a comforting meal ready in no time.
• Family-friendly: This dish is sure to please everyone at the table, from kids to adults!
• Make-ahead convenience: Prepare it in advance and pop it in the oven when you’re ready to eat.
• Deliciously flavorful: Bursting with fresh veggies and cheesy goodness, it’s a taste sensation that warms your heart.
• Versatile options: You can easily customize it with whatever vegetables you have on hand.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s gather some simple and wholesome ingredients for this delightful bake! You likely already have many of these staples in your pantry or fridge. Here’s what you’ll need:

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 courgette (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 (grated)
• small bunch parsley (roughly torn)

Variations

The beauty of this Vegetable Pasta Bake Recipe is its flexibility! Feel free to mix things up based on what you have or your personal preferences:

• Add more greens: Toss in some kale or broccoli for extra nutrition.
• Change the cheese: Use any cheese you love—feta or gouda work beautifully too!
• Spice it up: Add red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños for a kick!
• Substitute pasta shapes: Try penne, fusilli, or any other pasta shape you enjoy.

How to Make Vegetable Pasta Bake Recipe

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

Start by preheating your oven to 190C/375F. Boil a large pan of water to cook your pasta for just one minute less than what the package recommends. This keeps the pasta slightly firm, so it holds its shape during baking. Once done, drain it well!

Step 2: Sauté the Veggies

While your pasta cooks, heat the vegetable oil in a large frying pan over medium heat. Add the red onion first; cooking it for about 3-4 minutes until it softens releases its natural sweetness. Next, toss in the red and yellow bell peppers along with courgette, salt, pepper, garlic, tomato puree, oregano, and thyme. Stir everything together for another 2-3 minutes until fragrant.

Step 3: Create the Sauce

Now it’s time to make this bake creamy! Stir in the tinned tomatoes along with the double cream. Bring everything to a gentle bubble; this step melds all those gorgeous flavors together beautifully.

Step 4: Combine Pasta and Sauce

Once your pasta is cooked and drained, add it straight into the pan along with the fresh baby spinach. Mixing everything together ensures every bite is bursting with flavor! Transfer this delicious mix into a large baking dish.

Step 5: Top with Cheese

Sprinkle both cheddar and mozzarella generously over the top of your pasta bake. Pop it in the oven for about 20-25 minutes until that lovely cheese turns golden brown and bubbly.

Step 6: Serve It Up

When it’s ready, take out your masterpiece from the oven! Top it off with some roughly torn parsley for freshness before serving. Enjoy every cheesy bite!

This Vegetable Pasta Bake Recipe is not only tasty but also an easy way to incorporate more veggies into your meals. It’s comfort food at its best—perfect for any occasion!

Pro Tips for Making Vegetable Pasta Bake Recipe

Creating the perfect vegetable pasta bake is all about layering flavors and ensuring a satisfying texture, and I’m here to help you make it fabulous!

• Choose the right pasta shape: Opting for shapes like rigatoni or penne allows the sauce to cling beautifully, ensuring each bite is packed with flavor.
• Don’t skip the sautéing: Sautéing the vegetables before adding them to the bake enhances their natural sweetness and adds depth to your dish.
• Experiment with cheese: Feel free to mix different kinds of cheese! A combination of gouda, mozzarella, or even a sprinkle of feta can add a delightful twist.
• Add protein if desired: For those who want an extra boost, consider adding cooked lentils or chickpeas. They’re a great way to make this dish even heartier without using meat.
• Let it rest before serving: Allowing the bake to sit for about 5-10 minutes after removing it from the oven helps it set up nicely, making it easier to serve.

How to Serve Vegetable Pasta Bake Recipe

This vegetable pasta bake is not only comforting but also visually appealing when presented well. Here are some ideas on how to serve this delightful dish!

Garnishes

• Fresh herbs: A sprinkle of freshly torn parsley or basil adds a pop of color and freshness.
• Chili flakes: For those who enjoy some heat, a dash of chili flakes can spice things up!
• Zesty lemon juice: A drizzle of fresh lemon juice just before serving brightens the flavors and adds a refreshing zing.

Side Dishes

• Garlic Bread: Crunchy and buttery garlic bread pairs perfectly with this creamy bake, making every bite even more indulgent.
• Green Salad: A simple mixed green salad with a light vinaigrette balances out the richness of the pasta and adds crunch.
• Roasted Vegetables: Seasoned roasted veggies bring extra texture and flavor while keeping everything in line with healthy eating.
• Steamed Broccoli or Green Beans: Lightly steamed greens provide a lovely contrast in both texture and color, making for a well-rounded meal.

There you have it—your ultimate guide to making, serving, and enjoying this delicious vegetable pasta bake! Whether it’s a family dinner or meal prep for the week ahead, this recipe is sure to please everyone at the table. Enjoy!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Vegetable Pasta Bake Recipe is perfect for meal prep, making it an ideal choice for busy weeknights. You can easily prepare it in advance and enjoy it later, ensuring that you have a delicious, hearty meal ready to go!

Storing Leftovers

• Let the pasta bake cool completely before storing.
• Transfer leftovers to an airtight container.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.

Freezing

• Allow the vegetable pasta bake to cool completely.
• Cut into individual portions for easier thawing.
• Wrap each portion tightly with plastic wrap, then place in a freezer-safe bag or container.
• Freeze for up to 2-3 months.

Reheating

• Thaw overnight in the refrigerator if frozen.
• Preheat your oven to 180C/350F.
• Place the pasta bake in an oven-safe dish and cover with foil to prevent drying out.
• Heat for about 20-25 minutes, or until warmed through. Alternatively, reheat individual portions in the microwave for 2-3 minutes.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about this recipe that might help you out!

Can I use different vegetables for this Vegetable Pasta Bake Recipe?

Absolutely! This recipe is versatile. You can swap in your favorite vegetables, such as mushrooms, broccoli, or eggplant, based on what you have on hand or prefer.

How long does it take to make the Vegetable Pasta Bake Recipe?

From start to finish, this recipe takes about 60 minutes. This includes prep time and cooking time, making it a quick yet satisfying meal option.

Can I make this Vegetable Pasta Bake Recipe without cheese?

Yes! If you’re looking for a dairy-free version, you can omit the cheese entirely or use a plant-based cheese alternative. The dish will still be deliciously flavorful!

Is this Vegetable Pasta Bake Recipe suitable for meal prep?

Yes! This recipe is fantastic for meal prep. You can make it ahead of time and store it in the fridge or freeze individual portions for later.

Final Thoughts

I truly hope you enjoy making this Vegetable Pasta Bake Recipe as much as I do! It’s not just a dish; it’s a warm hug in food form—comforting, hearty, and perfect for sharing with friends and family. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or just treating yourself to a delightful dinner at home, this recipe has got you covered. Happy cooking!