Vegetable Pasta Bake Recipe

If you’re looking for a cozy, comforting meal that’s packed with veggies, then this Vegetable Pasta Bake Recipe is just what you need! This dish is perfect for busy weeknights or family gatherings when you want to serve something delicious that everyone will enjoy—even the meat-eaters in your life! The combination of pasta, fresh vegetables, and gooey cheese creates a heartwarming experience that satisfies both the tummy and the soul.

What makes this recipe so special is its versatility; you can easily customize it with whatever vegetables you have on hand. Plus, it’s simple enough for even novice cooks to whip up. So gather your loved ones around the table, and let’s dive into this delightful veggie-packed dinner!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick to Prepare: With just 15 minutes of prep time, this dish is a breeze to make, leaving you more time to enjoy with your family.
• Family-Friendly: Packed full of vibrant veggies and cheesy goodness, it’s a surefire hit for both kids and adults alike!
• Make-Ahead Convenience: You can assemble the bake ahead of time and pop it in the oven when you’re ready—perfect for meal prepping!
• Deliciously Comforting: The rich flavors and creamy texture will warm you right up, making it an ideal comfort food choice.
• Customizable: Feel free to swap in any seasonal vegetables you have lying around—this recipe is as flexible as your pantry!

Ingredients You’ll Need

This Vegetable Pasta Bake Recipe uses simple and wholesome ingredients. You likely have most of these items at home already! 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

This Vegetable Pasta Bake Recipe is wonderfully flexible. Here are some fun variations to suit your taste or whatever ingredients are available:

• Add Some Protein: Toss in cooked lentils or chickpeas for an added protein boost!
• Change Up the Cheese: Experiment with different cheeses like Gouda or feta for unique flavors.
• Spice It Up: Add some chili flakes or diced jalapeños for a little heat!
• Go Gluten-Free: Swap out regular pasta for gluten-free varieties to accommodate dietary preferences.

How to Make Vegetable Pasta Bake Recipe

Step 1: Boil the Pasta

Preheat your oven to 190C/375F (fan). Start by boiling a large pot of water. Cook the pasta for one minute less than what the package suggests. This way, it won’t overcook in the oven later. Drain it once done and set aside.

Step 2: Sauté the Onions

While the pasta cooks, heat up your vegetable oil in a large frying pan over medium heat. Add in your chopped red onion, cooking for about 3-4 minutes until it starts to soften. This step brings out the sweetness of the onions—don’t skip it!

Step 3: Add Veggies and Seasonings

Next, toss in your chopped peppers, courgette, salt, pepper, minced garlic, tomato puree, oregano, and thyme. Stir everything together and let it cook for another 2-3 minutes until fragrant. This is where all those vibrant flavors start to mingle!

Step 4: Combine with Tomatoes and Cream

Stir in the tinned tomatoes along with the creamy goodness of double cream. Allow this mixture to come to a gentle bubble—this step helps meld all those delicious flavors together beautifully.

Step 5: Mix Everything Together

Now that your pasta is ready, drain it and add both the pasta and fresh spinach into your sauce-filled pan. Give everything a good stir until well combined. Then transfer this colorful mixture into a large baking dish—it should look irresistible already!

Step 6: Cheese It Up!

Top off your pasta bake with grated cheddar and mozzarella cheese. This will create that beautiful golden crust we all love! Place it in your preheated oven for about 20-25 minutes until bubbly and golden brown.

Step 7: Serve With Love

Once out of the oven, sprinkle some torn parsley on top before serving. This final touch adds freshness! Grab some plates, serve generous portions, and watch everyone dig in happily.

Enjoy making this delightful Vegetable Pasta Bake Recipe—it’s bound to become a family favorite!

Pro Tips for Making Vegetable Pasta Bake Recipe

Making a delicious vegetable pasta bake is all about the little details! Here are some pro tips to ensure your dish turns out perfectly every time.

• Choose the Right Pasta: Opt for sturdy pasta shapes like rigatoni or penne. These shapes hold up well in the bake and capture the sauce and veggies beautifully.

• Don’t Overcook Your Pasta: Cooking the pasta just one minute less than the package instructions ensures it retains its texture during baking, avoiding a mushy result.

• Add More Veggies: Feel free to sneak in extra vegetables such as mushrooms, broccoli, or kale. This not only boosts nutrition but also adds vibrant colors and flavors.

• Experiment with Cheese: While cheddar and mozzarella are classic choices, consider adding a sprinkle of parmesan or a tangy goat cheese for added depth of flavor.

• Make It Ahead: This dish can be prepared in advance and stored in the fridge. Just pop it in the oven when you’re ready to serve—it makes weeknight dinners a breeze!

How to Serve Vegetable Pasta Bake Recipe

Serving your vegetable pasta bake is an opportunity to get creative! Here are some ideas on how to present this delightful dish to your family or guests.

Garnishes

• Fresh Basil or Parsley: Sprinkle freshly torn basil or parsley over the top just before serving for a burst of freshness that enhances the flavors.

• Crushed Red Pepper Flakes: If you enjoy a little heat, add a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes for an extra kick that complements the savory ingredients.

Side Dishes

• Garlic Bread: A warm loaf of garlic bread is always a favorite. It’s perfect for mopping up any leftover sauce from your plate!

• Mixed Green Salad: A light salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a simple vinaigrette provides a refreshing contrast to the rich pasta bake.

• Steamed Broccoli: Bright green steamed broccoli drizzled with lemon juice adds both color and nutrients, making it an ideal pairing with your hearty dish.

• Roasted Vegetables: Roasting seasonal vegetables like carrots, bell peppers, or Brussels sprouts brings out their natural sweetness and makes for a deliciously complementary side.

This vegetable pasta bake is not just a meal; it’s an experience filled with flavor and comfort. Enjoy creating this wonderful dish and sharing it with those you love!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Vegetable Pasta Bake is not only a delightful dish to serve but also an excellent option for meal prep. You can easily make it ahead of time, store it, and enjoy it throughout the week!

Storing Leftovers

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

Freezing

• Let the vegetable pasta bake cool completely.
• Cut into portions and wrap each portion tightly in plastic wrap.
• Place wrapped portions in a freezer-safe bag or container.
• Freeze for up to 2 months.

Reheating

• For refrigerated leftovers, reheat in the oven at 180C/350F until heated through (about 20 minutes).
• For frozen portions, thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating, or microwave on a low setting until warmed thoroughly.

FAQs

Here are some common questions you might have about this delicious recipe.

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

Absolutely! Feel free to swap in your favorite veggies such as broccoli, carrots, or mushrooms. This recipe is versatile and can adapt to whatever you have on hand!

How long does the Vegetable Pasta Bake Recipe take to cook?

The total time for this recipe is about 60 minutes, including both prep and cooking. It’s perfect for a cozy weeknight dinner!

Is this Vegetable Pasta Bake Recipe suitable for meal prep?

Yes! This bake stores well in the fridge or freezer, making it a fantastic choice for meal prepping. Enjoy it throughout the week!

Final Thoughts

I hope you find joy in creating this comforting Vegetable Pasta Bake Recipe! It’s packed with flavor and nutrients while being simple to whip up. Whether you’re enjoying it fresh out of the oven or saving some for later, I believe you’ll love every bite. Happy cooking, and don’t hesitate to reach out with your thoughts or variations!