Cheesy Vegetable Pasta Bake
	
		A hearty and comforting cheesy vegetable pasta bake loaded with colorful vegetables, tender pasta, and a rich tomato sauce, all topped with golden, melted cheese. Perfect for a family dinner or meal prep.
	 
	
		
							- Author: Mariem
 
							- Prep Time: 15 minutes
 
							- Cook Time: 40 minutes
 
							- Total Time: 55 minutes
 
							- Yield: 6 servings 1x
 
							- Category: Dinner
 
							- Method: Baking
 
							- Cuisine: Italian
 
							- Diet: Vegetarian
 
					
	 
	
		
		
			
- 12 oz penne or fusilli pasta
 
- 1 tbsp olive oil
 
- 1 onion, chopped
 
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
 
- 1 zucchini, diced
 
- 1 red bell pepper, diced
 
- 1 cup broccoli florets
 
- 1 cup mushrooms, sliced
 
- 2 cups marinara or tomato pasta sauce
 
- 1 tsp dried oregano
 
- Salt and pepper, to taste
 
- 1 ½ cups shredded mozzarella cheese
 
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
 
- Fresh basil or parsley, for garnish (optional)
 
		 
	 
	
		
		
			
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
 
- Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
 
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add onion and garlic; sauté for 2–3 minutes.
 
- Add zucchini, bell pepper, broccoli, and mushrooms. Cook for 5–7 minutes until slightly tender.
 
- Stir in the marinara sauce and oregano. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Simmer for 5 minutes.
 
- Add the cooked pasta to the skillet and toss to combine with the sauce and vegetables.
 
- Transfer the mixture to a greased baking dish. Top with mozzarella and Parmesan cheese.
 
- Bake uncovered for 20–25 minutes or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
 
- Garnish with fresh basil or parsley before serving if desired.
 
		 
	 
	
		Notes
		
			
- Use any vegetables you have on hand like spinach, carrots, or corn.
 
- You can make it ahead and refrigerate before baking.
 
- Substitute with gluten-free pasta for a gluten-free version.
 
- Add chili flakes for a spicier version.
 
		 
	 
	
		Nutrition
		
							- Serving Size: 1 serving
 
							- Calories: 460
 
							- Sugar: 7g
 
							- Sodium: 520mg
 
							- Fat: 18g
 
							- Saturated Fat: 9g
 
							- Unsaturated Fat: 7g
 
							- Trans Fat: 0g
 
							- Carbohydrates: 55g
 
							- Fiber: 5g
 
							- Protein: 20g
 
							- Cholesterol: 35mg
 
					
	 
	
		Keywords: cheesy vegetable pasta bake, vegetarian pasta bake, pasta casserole, baked pasta, easy family dinner