Vegetable Pasta Bake Recipe

If you’re looking for a comforting dish that brings everyone to the table, this Vegetable Pasta Bake Recipe is just the ticket. With its layers of pasta, vibrant vegetables, and gooey cheese, it’s a meal that even the pickiest eaters will enjoy. Whether it’s a busy weeknight or a family gathering, this bake is sure to please. It’s easy to whip up and filled with wholesome ingredients that make it a nourishing choice for all.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick to prepare: In just under an hour, you can have a delicious dinner ready to serve.
• Packed with veggies: This dish is loaded with colorful vegetables, making it a nutritious option everyone will love.
• Family-friendly: Even those who typically prefer meat will find this hearty pasta bake satisfying.
• Make-ahead convenience: You can prepare it in advance and pop it in the oven when you’re ready to eat.
• Comforting flavors: The combination of melted cheese and creamy sauce creates a delightful dish that feels like a warm hug.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s gather some simple and wholesome ingredients for our Vegetable Pasta Bake. These tasty components come together beautifully to create a comforting dish that everyone can enjoy.

For the Pasta and Sauce

• 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

For the Topping

• 100 g (1 cup) strong cheddar cheese (grated)
• 100 g (1 cup) mozzarella (grated)
• small bunch parsley (roughly torn)

Variations

This Vegetable Pasta Bake is wonderfully flexible! Feel free to mix things up according to your taste or what you have on hand.

• Add more veggies: Toss in your favorite vegetables like mushrooms, broccoli, or carrots for added flavor and nutrition.
• Try different cheeses: Experiment with different cheese blends such as gouda or feta for unique flavor profiles.
• Make it spicy: Add some chili flakes or diced jalapeños for a spicy kick that elevates this dish.
• Swap the pasta shape: Feel free to use any pasta shape you have available—penne, fusilli, or even gluten-free options work great!

How to Make Vegetable Pasta Bake Recipe

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Start by preheating your oven to 190C/375F. This step is crucial because we want our bake to cook evenly and get that lovely golden-brown top.

Step 2: Cook the Pasta

Boil a large pan of water and cook the pasta for just one minute less than the package instructions suggest. This way, the pasta will finish cooking in the oven without becoming mushy. Once done, drain it well.

Step 3: Sauté the Vegetables

While your pasta cooks, heat vegetable oil in a large frying pan over medium heat. Add the red onion and sauté for 3-4 minutes until it starts softening. This step enhances the onion’s sweetness, giving your bake more flavor!

Step 4: Build Your Sauce

Now it’s time to add in those colorful peppers, courgette, salt, pepper, garlic, tomato puree, oregano, and thyme. Stir everything together and cook for another 2-3 minutes. This blend of veggies not only adds color but also boosts nutritional value!

Step 5: Combine Everything

Pour in those tinned tomatoes along with cream. Bring everything to a gentle bubble—this blends all those wonderful flavors together! After draining your pasta, add it along with fresh spinach into this mix. Stir well before transferring everything into a large baking dish.

Step 6: Top It Off

Sprinkle grated cheddar and mozzarella generously over the top of your pasta bake. The cheese will melt beautifully while baking and create that sought-after gooey texture!

Step 7: Bake Away!

Place your dish in the preheated oven for about 20-25 minutes until the cheese turns golden brown and bubbly. Once it’s out of the oven, sprinkle some torn parsley on top before serving—it adds freshness!

And there you have it—a delightful Vegetable Pasta Bake that’s perfect for any occasion! Enjoy every cheesy bite!

Pro Tips for Making Vegetable Pasta Bake Recipe

Creating a delicious vegetable pasta bake is easy and rewarding, especially with a few helpful tips to ensure it turns out perfectly every time!

• Prep your veggies ahead of time: Chopping your vegetables before you start cooking can save you time and make the process smoother. This way, you can focus on cooking without feeling rushed.

• Don’t overcook the pasta: Cooking the pasta just under al dente is key as it will continue to cook in the oven. This prevents it from becoming mushy and ensures a delightful texture throughout the dish.

• Experiment with different veggies: Feel free to substitute or add any seasonal vegetables you have on hand! Broccoli, cauliflower, or even mushrooms can add unique flavors and nutrients to your bake.

• Use fresh herbs for flavor: While dried herbs work well, adding fresh herbs like basil or thyme right before serving can elevate the dish with vibrant flavors that dry herbs can’t match.

• Let it cool slightly before serving: Allowing the bake to sit for about 5-10 minutes after it comes out of the oven helps it set and makes it easier to serve. Plus, it’ll be less likely to burn anyone’s mouth!

How to Serve Vegetable Pasta Bake Recipe

This vegetable pasta bake is not only comforting but also visually appealing! Serve it hot with some delightful garnishes and side dishes that complement its rich flavors.

Garnishes

• Fresh parsley or basil: A sprinkle of freshly torn parsley or basil adds a pop of color and a burst of fresh flavor that enhances each bite.
• Grated Parmesan alternative: For those looking for a cheesy finish without dairy, consider using a plant-based Parmesan alternative sprinkled on top before serving.

Side Dishes

• Garlic Bread: Crunchy garlic bread pairs perfectly with this pasta bake, offering a satisfying crunch that complements its creamy texture.
• Mixed Green Salad: A light mixed green salad with a simple vinaigrette provides a fresh contrast to the richness of the bake. Toss in some cherry tomatoes and cucumber for extra crunch!
• Roasted Vegetables: Oven-roasted seasonal vegetables bring another layer of flavor and nutrition. They can be seasoned simply with olive oil, salt, and pepper for an easy side.
• Steamed Broccoli: Bright green steamed broccoli not only adds nutrition but also brings color to your meal plate. Plus, its slight bitterness balances out the creamy pasta bake beautifully.

With these serving suggestions in mind, you’ll create a delightful dining experience that everyone will love! Enjoy your cozy night in with this comforting vegetable pasta bake.

Make Ahead and Storage

This Vegetable Pasta Bake is not only delicious but also perfect for meal prep! It’s a great option to make ahead of time, allowing you to savor comforting flavors 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 3-4 days.

Freezing

• Let the pasta bake cool completely.
• Cut into portions and wrap each piece tightly in plastic wrap.
• Place wrapped portions in a freezer-safe container or bag.
• Freeze for up to 2-3 months.

Reheating

• Thaw frozen portions in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
• Preheat your oven to 180C/350F and place the pasta bake in an oven-safe dish.
• Cover with foil and reheat for about 20-25 minutes until heated through.

FAQs

Have questions about this Vegetable Pasta Bake Recipe? Here are some common inquiries!

Can I customize the Vegetable Pasta Bake Recipe?

Absolutely! Feel free to add your favorite vegetables or substitute with what’s in season. This recipe is flexible, so get creative!

How long does this Vegetable Pasta Bake Recipe take to prepare?

This delightful dish takes about 15 minutes of prep time and 45 minutes of cooking time, making it a total of around 60 minutes from start to finish.

Can I make this recipe vegan?

Yes! You can easily swap out the double cream for a plant-based alternative and use dairy-free cheese for a vegan version.

What type of pasta works best for this recipe?

While rigatoni is recommended, any dried pasta shapes such as penne or fusilli work well too. Just ensure they cook al dente!

Final Thoughts

I hope you find joy in making this Vegetable Pasta Bake! It’s not just a meal; it’s a heartwarming dish that brings comfort and satisfaction. Whether you’re serving it for a family dinner or enjoying leftovers during the week, I trust it will become one of your favorites. Happy cooking, and may your kitchen be filled with wonderful aromas!