Get ready to transport your taste buds to the sun-drenched coastlines of the Mediterranean with this incredibly easy and mouthwatering Roasted Vegetable Pasta Bake! Imagine a dish that combines perfectly al dente pasta, caramelized roasted vegetables, rich marinara sauce, and melted mozzarella cheese - all baked to golden perfection in less than an hour. This isn't just another pasta recipe; it's a flavor explosion that will have your family and friends begging for seconds!
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 30 mins
Total Time: 45 mins
Cuisine: Mediterranean
Serves: 6 servings
Ingredients
- 8 oz penne pasta
- 1 zucchini, diced
- 1 bell pepper, diced
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1/2 cup red onion, sliced
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1 cup marinara sauce
- 1 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C). Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper to ensure easy cleanup and prevent sticking.
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the penne pasta for 2 minutes less than the package instructions, keeping it al dente. Drain and set aside.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine diced zucchini, bell pepper, cherry tomatoes, and sliced red onion. Drizzle with olive oil and sprinkle Italian seasoning. Toss thoroughly to coat vegetables evenly.
- Spread the seasoned vegetables on the prepared baking sheet in a single layer. Roast in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes, stirring once halfway through, until vegetables are tender and slightly caramelized.
- In a large baking dish, combine the partially cooked pasta, roasted vegetables, and marinara sauce. Mix gently to ensure even distribution.
- Sprinkle shredded mozzarella cheese evenly over the top of the pasta and vegetable mixture.
- Bake in the oven for 10-12 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly and starts to turn golden brown.
- Remove from oven and let rest for 5 minutes before serving. This allows the dish to set and makes it easier to portion.
- Serve hot, optionally garnished with fresh basil leaves or a sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese.
Tips
- For maximum flavor, use high-quality olive oil and fresh vegetables. The roasting process intensifies their natural sweetness.
- Don't overcook the pasta initially - remember to drain it 2 minutes before the package instructions to keep it perfectly al dente.
- Spread your vegetables in a single layer while roasting to ensure even caramelization and prevent steaming.
- For a protein boost, consider adding diced chicken, chickpeas, or crumbled feta cheese before the final bake.
- Let the dish rest for 5 minutes after baking to allow the flavors to meld and make serving easier.
- Fresh herbs like basil or oregano can elevate the dish's flavor profile - sprinkle some on just before serving.
- Use a good quality marinara sauce or homemade sauce for the best results.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 290kcal
Carbohydrates: 35g
Protein: 12g
Fat: 13g
Saturated Fat: 5g
Cholesterol: 25mg
