Vegetable Pasta Bake Recipe

If you’re looking for a comforting dish that packs a punch of flavor and nutrition, look no further! This Vegetable Pasta Bake Recipe is a true crowd-pleaser, perfect for busy weeknights or cozy family gatherings. It’s amazing how this veggie-packed dish can satisfy even the heartiest appetites, making it a go-to favorite in my kitchen. Plus, it’s so easy to whip up that you’ll find yourself returning to it time and time again.

The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity and versatility. You can easily customize it with whatever veggies you have on hand, making it a fantastic option for meal prep or when you need to clean out the fridge. Trust me, once you try this bake, it will become a cherished recipe in your home!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: With just 15 minutes of prep time, you can have a delicious meal ready without any fuss.
• Family-Friendly: Even kids who are picky eaters will love this cheesy, vegetable-filled delight!
• Make-Ahead Convenience: This pasta bake stores well, so you can prepare it in advance and simply pop it in the oven when you’re ready.
• Customizable: Use any vegetables or cheese you have at home to make this dish your own.
• Delicious Comfort Food: Each bite is filled with warmth and flavor, making it perfect for satisfying cravings.

Ingredients You’ll Need

These ingredients are simple and wholesome, ensuring that every bite of your vegetable pasta bake is packed with goodness. Here’s what you will 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

One of the best things about this Vegetable Pasta Bake is how flexible it is! You can easily adjust ingredients based on what you like or have on hand. Here are some fun variations to try:

• Add More Greens: Toss in some kale or broccoli florets for an extra nutrient boost.
• Change Up the Cheese: Swap out cheddar and mozzarella for gouda or feta for different flavors.
• Spice It Up: Add red pepper flakes or fresh herbs like basil for a little kick.
• Make It Vegan: Substitute the cream with coconut milk and use vegan cheese for a plant-based version.

How to Make Vegetable Pasta Bake Recipe

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

First things first! Preheat your oven to 190C/375F (fan). This step ensures that your pasta bake cooks evenly and gets that lovely golden crust on top.

Step 2: Cook the Pasta

Boil a large pan of water and cook the pasta for just one minute less than what’s stated on the package. This helps prevent overcooking later since we’ll be baking it too! Once done, drain the pasta and set it aside.

Step 3: Sauté the Vegetables

In a large frying pan, heat the vegetable oil over medium heat. Add the red onion first; sautéing it until softens brings out its sweetness. After about 3-4 minutes, toss in the chopped peppers and courgette along with salt, pepper, garlic, tomato puree, oregano, and thyme. Stir everything together and let them cook for another 2-3 minutes.

Step 4: Create the Sauce

Now add those tinned chopped tomatoes along with the cream into your pan. Bring everything to a gentle bubble; this will allow all those delicious flavors to meld beautifully together!

Step 5: Combine Everything

Once your sauce is bubbling away nicely, stir in the cooked pasta along with baby spinach until everything is well combined. It’s important to make sure every piece of pasta gets coated with that lovely sauce! Then transfer everything into a large baking dish.

Step 6: Add Cheesy Goodness

Top your mixture generously with grated cheddar and mozzarella cheese. The gooey melted cheese is what takes this bake over-the-top delicious!

Step 7: Bake to Perfection

Place your baking dish into the preheated oven for about 20-25 minutes or until the cheese turns golden brown. Just imagine that aroma filling your kitchen!

Step 8: Serve & Enjoy!

Once it’s out of the oven, sprinkle some fresh parsley on top before serving. This last touch adds freshness that complements all those rich flavors perfectly.

Enjoy sharing this hearty Vegetable Pasta Bake Recipe with friends or family—it’s sure to become a favorite!

Pro Tips for Making Vegetable Pasta Bake Recipe

This vegetable pasta bake is sure to become a family favorite, and with these handy tips, you’ll make it even more delicious!

• Choose your veggies wisely: Opt for seasonal vegetables to enhance the flavor and nutritional value of your dish. Fresh produce not only tastes better but also adds vibrant colors to your bake.

• Don’t overcook the pasta: Cooking the pasta for one minute less than package instructions ensures it maintains a firm texture during baking. This prevents sogginess and allows it to soak up the delightful sauce.

• Mix cheeses for depth of flavor: Using a combination of cheddar and mozzarella brings out a richer taste and an irresistible gooey texture. Feel free to experiment with other cheeses like gouda or feta for unique flavor profiles.

• Add spice if you like it hot: For those who enjoy a kick, consider adding red pepper flakes or chopped fresh chili to the vegetable mixture. It’s an easy way to introduce some heat without overwhelming the dish.

• Make it ahead of time: This recipe is perfect for meal prep! You can assemble the bake in advance, refrigerate it, and pop it in the oven when you’re ready. Just give it an extra few minutes in the oven if it’s coming straight from the fridge.

How to Serve Vegetable Pasta Bake Recipe

Serving this comforting dish can turn a simple meal into a delightful experience. Here are some ideas on how to present and enjoy your vegetable pasta bake!

Garnishes

• Fresh herbs: A sprinkle of freshly torn parsley or basil can brighten up the flavors and add a lovely touch of color.
• Grated cheese: Adding a little more grated cheese just before serving can provide that extra cheesy goodness everyone loves.

Side Dishes

• Garlic Bread: Crunchy, buttery garlic bread is always a hit! It’s perfect for scooping up any leftover sauce and complements the bake beautifully.

• Mixed Green Salad: A refreshing salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, and a light vinaigrette brings brightness to your meal and balances out the richness of the pasta bake.

• Roasted Vegetables: Roasting seasonal vegetables like carrots, Brussels sprouts, or asparagus adds depth to your meal while keeping things light and healthy.

• Steamed Broccoli: Perfectly steamed broccoli not only adds a pop of color but also packs in additional nutrients. It’s an easy side that pairs wonderfully with comfort food.

Enjoy making this Vegetable Pasta Bake Recipe! It’s quick, satisfying, and perfect for any night of the week. Happy cooking!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Vegetable Pasta Bake is not just delicious, it’s also perfect for meal prep! You can easily whip up a batch ahead of time and enjoy it throughout the week. Here’s how to store, freeze, and reheat your delightful dish:

Storing Leftovers

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

Freezing

• Allow the dish to cool completely before freezing.
• Portion into freezer-safe containers or wrap tightly in plastic wrap and then foil.
• Freeze for up to 3 months. Label with the date for easy tracking!

Reheating

• Thaw overnight in the refrigerator if frozen.
• Reheat in the oven at 180C/350F for about 20 minutes until heated through.
• Alternatively, microwave individual portions on medium power until warm.

FAQs

Here are some common questions you might have about this recipe!

Can I make this Vegetable Pasta Bake Recipe vegan?

Absolutely! To make this dish vegan, simply substitute the double cream with a plant-based cream alternative and use vegan cheese instead of cheddar and mozzarella.

What vegetables can I add to my Vegetable Pasta Bake Recipe?

Feel free to get creative! You can add mushrooms, spinach, or even broccoli. Just ensure they are chopped into small pieces so they cook evenly with the pasta.

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

From start to finish, this recipe takes about 60 minutes. With a quick prep time of just 15 minutes, it’s a fantastic option for a busy weeknight dinner!

Can I prepare this Vegetable Pasta Bake Recipe in advance?

Yes! You can prepare it a day ahead of time and store it in the fridge until you’re ready to bake. It’s perfect for meal prepping!

Is this Vegetable Pasta Bake Recipe healthy?

This dish balances carbs from the pasta with plenty of vegetables, making it nutritious and filling. It’s a great way to incorporate more veggies into your diet!

Final Thoughts

I hope you find joy in preparing this Vegetable Pasta Bake! It’s a comforting dish that brings together vibrant flavors and wholesome ingredients, making it perfect for any dinner table. Whether you’re enjoying it right away or saving some for later, I invite you to dive in and savor every bite. Happy cooking!