Quick Vegetable Pasta Bake

If you’re looking for a comforting and delicious meal to serve your family on a busy weeknight, this Quick Vegetable Pasta Bake is the perfect go-to recipe. Packed with nutritious veggies and hearty pasta, this dish is sure to become a favorite in your household. The best part? It’s easy to make and can be on the table in no time. Let’s dive into the recipe:

Ingredients:
– 8 oz penne pasta
– 1 red bell pepper, diced
– 1 zucchini, sliced
– 1 yellow squash, sliced
– 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1/2 cup diced onion
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup marinara sauce
– 1/2 teaspoon dried basil
– 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese

Instructions:
1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
2. Cook the penne pasta according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
3. In a large skillet, heat some olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and minced garlic, and sauté until the onion is translucent.
4. Add the diced red bell pepper, sliced zucchini, and sliced yellow squash to the skillet. Cook for about 5-7 minutes, until the vegetables are slightly tender.
5. Stir in the halved cherry tomatoes, marinara sauce, dried basil, dried oregano, salt, and pepper. Let the mixture simmer for a few minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.
6. Add the cooked penne pasta to the skillet and toss everything together until the pasta is coated with the vegetable sauce.
7. Transfer the pasta and vegetable mixture to the prepared baking dish. Spread it out evenly.
8. Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese on top of the pasta.
9. Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 20 minutes.
10. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 5-10 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and slightly golden brown.
11. Once done, remove the baking dish from the oven and let it cool slightly before serving.
12. Serve the Quick Vegetable Pasta Bake warm and enjoy the delicious marriage of flavors and textures in every bite.

This Quick Vegetable Pasta Bake is a versatile dish that you can customize based on your family’s preferences. Feel free to add other favorite veggies or swap out ingredients to tailor it to your liking. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or just getting started in the kitchen, this recipe is a great addition to your repertoire of easy and satisfying meals. So, gather your ingredients and get ready to whip up a delightful pasta bake that will have everyone coming back for seconds!