If you’re looking for a comforting and wholesome meal that captures the essence of cozy home cooking, our Roasted Vegetable Pasta Bake is the perfect dish to add to your recipe repertoire. This hearty and flavorful casserole combines the rustic charm of Italian cuisine with the heartiness of a classic baked pasta dish. Packed with roasted seasonal vegetables and melted cheese, this recipe is sure to become a family favorite on chilly evenings or for gathering with loved ones. So, roll up your sleeves, preheat your oven, and let’s dive into creating this delicious Roasted Vegetable Pasta Bake.
**Ingredients:**
– 1 small eggplant, diced
– 1 zucchini, sliced
– 1 red bell pepper, diced
– 1 yellow bell pepper, diced
– 1 red onion, roughly chopped
– 3 cloves of garlic, minced
– 2 tablespoons of olive oil
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 12 oz (340g) of your favorite pasta (such as penne or rigatoni)
– 2 cups of tomato sauce
– 1 cup of shredded mozzarella cheese
– 1/2 cup of grated Parmesan cheese
– Fresh basil leaves for garnish
**Instructions:**
1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine the diced eggplant, sliced zucchini, diced red and yellow bell peppers, chopped red onion, and minced garlic. Drizzle with olive oil and season with salt and pepper. Toss the vegetables until they are evenly coated with the oil and seasonings.
3. Spread the seasoned vegetables in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet. Roast in the preheated oven for about 25-30 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender and slightly caramelized.
4. While the vegetables are roasting, cook the pasta according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain the pasta and set aside.
5. In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked pasta with the roasted vegetables and tomato sauce. Mix until everything is well combined.
6. Transfer the pasta and vegetable mixture into a greased baking dish, spreading it out evenly.
7. Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella and grated Parmesan cheese over the top of the pasta.
8. Cover the baking dish with foil and bake in the preheated oven for 20 minutes. Then remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
9. Once the cheese is golden and bubbling, remove the pasta bake from the oven. Let it sit for a few minutes to cool slightly before serving.
10. Garnish with fresh basil leaves before serving for a touch of freshness and color.
Now, your Roasted Vegetable Pasta Bake is ready to be enjoyed! Serve up heaping spoonfuls of this delightful dish to your family or friends and watch as the flavors and aromas transport everyone to the rustic kitchens of Italy. This recipe is a perfect balance of comforting pasta, savory roasted veggies, and gooey melted cheese—all coming together in a satisfying meal that is bound to delight all who gather around your table. So, next time you’re in the mood for a cozy and wholesome culinary experience, remember this delightful Roasted Vegetable Pasta Bake recipe!
