Vegetable Pasta Bake Recipe

If you’re looking for a delicious and hearty meal that everyone will love, then this Vegetable Pasta Bake Recipe is just what you need! This dish is perfect for busy weeknights or cozy family gatherings. It’s packed with colorful veggies and creamy goodness, making it a comfort food favorite that even the meat-eaters will rave about. Plus, it’s easy to whip up and can be made ahead of time, ensuring that dinner is always ready when you are!

This Vegetable Pasta Bake isn’t just tasty; it’s also a wonderful way to sneak in those essential nutrients. So gather your loved ones around the table and enjoy this cozy dish together!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick Preparation: With just 15 minutes of prep time, you can get this comforting meal on the table without any fuss.
• Family-Friendly: The combination of gooey cheese and vibrant vegetables makes this bake appealing to all ages.
• Make-Ahead Convenience: Prepare it in advance, pop it in the oven when you’re ready, and let the magic happen!
• Delicious Flavor: Rich, creamy sauce mixed with tender pasta and roasted veggies creates a mouthwatering experience.
• Versatile Ingredients: You can easily swap in whatever vegetables you have on hand for a unique twist each time!

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s talk about the ingredients! This Vegetable Pasta Bake Recipe uses simple, wholesome ingredients that are likely already in your kitchen. Here’s what you’ll need:

For the Pasta

• 400 g (14 oz) dried pasta shapes (I used rigatoni)

For the Sauce

• 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

For the Topping

• 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 parts about this Vegetable Pasta Bake is how flexible it is! Feel free to get creative based on what you have at home or your personal taste preferences.

• Swap out the veggies: Use seasonal vegetables like broccoli, asparagus, or mushrooms instead of the ones listed.
• Add some protein: Toss in cooked chickpeas or lentils for an extra protein punch.
• Change up the cheese: Experiment with different cheeses like gouda or feta for unique flavor profiles.
• Spice it up: Add crushed red pepper flakes or your favorite hot sauce for a little kick!

How to Make Vegetable Pasta Bake Recipe

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

Start by preheating your oven to 190C/375F (fan). In a large pot, boil water and cook the pasta for one minute less than recommended on the package. This step is crucial because we want our pasta to hold its shape when baked. Once done, drain it well.

Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables

While your pasta cooks, heat vegetable oil in a large frying pan over medium heat. Add in the red onion and let it cook for about 3-4 minutes until it starts to soften. Sautéing onions brings out their sweetness, which adds depth to our dish.

Step 3: Add More Veggies

Next, toss in the chopped peppers, courgette, salt, pepper, garlic, tomato puree, oregano, and thyme. Stir everything together and let it cook for another 2-3 minutes. This step allows all those lovely flavors to meld beautifully.

Step 4: Combine with Tomatoes & Cream

Now it’s time to add in those tinned tomatoes and cream! Stir gently until everything is combined and bring it to a gentle bubble. The cream makes this sauce rich and luscious—perfect for our pasta bake!

Step 5: Mix Everything Together

Once your pasta is cooked and drained, add it along with fresh spinach to your veggie sauce. Give everything a good stir so every bite is coated in that delicious sauce before transferring it all into a large baking dish.

Step 6: Top with Cheese & Bake

Sprinkle grated cheddar and mozzarella generously over the top. Pop your baking dish into the oven for about 20-25 minutes until the cheese turns golden brown and bubbly—a sight that always warms my heart!

Step 7: Serve & Enjoy!

When it’s out of the oven, sprinkle some roughly torn parsley over the top before serving. This final touch not only adds color but also freshness! Get ready to enjoy a delightful dinner that everyone will love.

With this Vegetable Pasta Bake Recipe in hand, you’re well on your way to creating memorable meals filled with warmth and joy!

Pro Tips for Making Vegetable Pasta Bake Recipe

Cooking is all about having fun and experimenting, so here are some tips to ensure your vegetable pasta bake comes out perfectly every time!

• Cook Pasta Al Dente: Cook your pasta just under the recommended time. This keeps it firm, so it doesn’t turn mushy during baking and retains that perfect bite.

• Add Extra Veggies: Feel free to toss in any of your favorite vegetables! Broccoli, mushrooms, or even kale can add more flavor and nutrition, making this dish even more vibrant.

• Mix Cheese Varieties: Experiment with different cheeses like gouda or feta for added depth of flavor. Mixing cheeses can enhance the creaminess and overall taste of your bake.

• Make It Ahead: Prepare the dish a day in advance and store it in the fridge. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully, giving you a richer taste when it’s baked.

• Broil for a Crispy Top: For an extra crispy cheese topping, switch to broil for the last few minutes of baking. Just keep an eye on it to prevent burning!

How to Serve Vegetable Pasta Bake Recipe

Serving up your vegetable pasta bake can be as delightful as making it! With a few simple touches, you can elevate this dish into something truly special.

Garnishes

• Fresh Herbs: Sprinkle fresh basil or parsley on top right before serving for a burst of color and freshness.
• Chili Flakes: Add a pinch of chili flakes for those who enjoy a bit of heat; it complements the creamy cheese perfectly!

Side Dishes

• Garlic Bread: A classic pairing! The crunchy texture and buttery garlic flavor make it an irresistible side that complements the creamy pasta bake.

• Simple Green Salad: A light salad with mixed greens, cucumber, and a lemon vinaigrette balances the richness of the pasta. It adds freshness and makes your meal more well-rounded.

• Roasted Vegetables: Toss some seasonal vegetables in olive oil and roast them until tender. This adds another layer of flavor while keeping things healthy.

• Steamed Broccoli: Bright green steamed broccoli not only looks lovely but also provides a nutritious crunch that pairs beautifully with the creamy pasta bake.

Enjoy creating this deliciously comforting vegetable pasta bake recipe, and remember that cooking is all about joy—so don’t hesitate to make it your own!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Vegetable Pasta Bake Recipe is perfect for meal prep, allowing you to enjoy delicious, hearty meals throughout the week with minimal effort. You can easily make it in advance and store it for later, making weeknight dinners a breeze.

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 dish cool completely before freezing.
• Wrap the baking dish tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil, or transfer portions to freezer-safe containers.
• Freeze for up to 3 months.

Reheating

• To reheat from the fridge, preheat your oven to 180C/350F and cover the dish with foil. Bake for about 20 minutes or until heated through.
• For frozen portions, thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating, or bake directly from frozen at 180C/350F for about 40-50 minutes, covered with foil.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about the Vegetable Pasta Bake Recipe that might help you out.

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

Absolutely! Feel free to swap out any of the vegetables for your favorites or what’s in season. Just remember to keep a good mix of textures and flavors.

How long does this Vegetable Pasta Bake Recipe last in the fridge?

When stored properly in an airtight container, leftovers from this Vegetable Pasta Bake Recipe will stay fresh in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Can I make this Vegetable Pasta Bake Recipe vegan?

Yes! You can easily make this recipe vegan by using plant-based cream alternatives and omitting cheese or substituting with vegan cheese.

What type of pasta works best for this Vegetable Pasta Bake Recipe?

While rigatoni is a great choice due to its ability to hold sauce well, you can also use penne, fusilli, or any other pasta shape you enjoy!

Final Thoughts

I hope you find joy in making this Vegetable Pasta Bake Recipe as much as I do! It’s a wonderful way to bring comfort food into your home while packing it full of nutritious veggies. Whether you’re preparing a cozy dinner for yourself or sharing it with family and friends, there’s just something special about this dish. Enjoy every bite, and don’t hesitate to get creative with your vegetable choices—happy cooking!

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