Herb Roasted Veggie Pasta Bake

Name: Herb Roasted Veggie Pasta Bake
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 50 min
Yield: 6 servings
Ingredients: 8 oz whole grain pasta; 2 cups zucchini, diced; 1 cup bell peppers, diced; 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved; 3 tablespoons olive oil; 2 teaspoons Italian seasoning; Salt and pepper to taste; 1 cup grated mozzarella cheese; 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese

Highlighted under: Wholesome Healthy Meals Favorites

I love creating comforting dishes that are both satisfying and nutritious, and this Herb Roasted Veggie Pasta Bake is one of my favorites. The combination of roasted vegetables and pasta, all baked together with a flavorful herb blend, makes for a dish that is hard to resist. Whether it's a cozy weeknight dinner or a gathering with friends, this pasta bake always hits the spot. Plus, it's easy to customize with your favorite seasonal veggies, making it a versatile staple in my kitchen.

Created by

Isobel Fairfax

Last updated on 2026-01-15T20:49:35.488Z

When I first tried making this Herb Roasted Veggie Pasta Bake, I was amazed at how the simple act of roasting vegetables transformed their flavors. I tossed zucchini, bell peppers, and cherry tomatoes in olive oil and herbs before roasting them to sweet perfection. The aroma that filled my kitchen was irresistible, and it was a revelation for me that roasting enhances the taste of vegetables dramatically.

Incorporating the roasted veggies into the pasta really took this dish to another level. For the best results, I recommend using whole grain pasta for added texture and flavor. This way, you get a wholesome, hearty meal that’s as delicious as it is colorful on the plate!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Hearty and fulfilling with a burst of fresh herb flavors
Perfectly roasted vegetables add depth and sweetness
Easily adaptable with your favorite seasonal veggies

      

Ingredient Insights

The choice of pasta plays a crucial role in the texture of the bake. Whole grain pasta not only adds a nutty flavor but also boosts the nutritional value with more fiber. When selecting pasta, it's essential to aim for shapes that hold sauce well. Penne or rotini are excellent options as their ridges capture the cheese and sauce, enhancing each bite.

The vegetables in this dish are not just for color; they add essential nutrients and layers of flavor. Zucchini provides moisture and a mild, subtle sweetness, while bell peppers contribute a slight crunch and their own unique sweetness when roasted. Cherry tomatoes burst during baking, creating little pockets of juicy flavor that contrast beautifully with the cheesy pasta.

Baking Tips

To achieve the perfect melt on the cheese, be mindful of your oven's hotspots. If you position your baking dish towards the middle, you’ll ensure even cooking and avoid burnt edges. Keep an eye on the cheese—remove the dish once it’s golden-brown and bubbly, usually around the 10-minute mark, to prevent overcooking, which can result in a rubbery texture.

If you prefer a crispy top, consider broiling the bake for an additional 1-2 minutes after baking. This technique must be monitored closely, as broilers can quickly escalate from perfectly crispy to burnt. This is a great way to add texture contrast to the creamy pasta underneath.

Serving and Storage

This Herb Roasted Veggie Pasta Bake is incredibly versatile in terms of serving. Fresh herbs like basil or parsley sprinkled on top right before serving can enhance the freshness and visual appeal. For a complete meal, serve it alongside a simple green salad or some garlic bread to soak up the lovely sauce.

If you have leftovers, they can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through, about 15-20 minutes. Alternatively, you can microwave individual portions for a quick meal, but keep in mind that the texture may not be as crispy.

Ingredients

Here’s what you need to make this delicious pasta bake:

Ingredients

8 oz whole grain pasta
2 cups zucchini, diced
1 cup bell peppers, diced
1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
3 tablespoons olive oil
2 teaspoons Italian seasoning
Salt and pepper to taste
1 cup grated mozzarella cheese
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese

Make sure to adjust the ingredients based on your preferences or what you have on hand!

Instructions

Follow these steps to create your Herb Roasted Veggie Pasta Bake:

Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).

Roast the Vegetables

In a large bowl, combine zucchini, bell peppers, and cherry tomatoes. Add olive oil, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Toss to coat. Spread the vegetables on a baking sheet and roast for 20 minutes.

Cook the Pasta

Meanwhile, cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.

Combine Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked pasta and roasted vegetables. Mix well to integrate all ingredients.

Assemble the Bake

Transfer the pasta and vegetable mixture to a greased baking dish. Top with mozzarella and Parmesan cheese.

Bake

Bake in the preheated oven for 10 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.

Let it cool for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy your meal!

Pro Tips

For an extra layer of flavor, try adding some crushed red pepper flakes for a bit of heat or sprinkle fresh basil on top before serving.

Customization Options

One of the best aspects of this pasta bake is its adaptability. You can easily swap out the zucchini and bell peppers for other seasonal vegetables like asparagus or spinach, which also roast beautifully. If you're dealing with firmer vegetables like carrots or butternut squash, they may need a slightly longer roasting time—around 25-30 minutes—to become tender and caramelized.

For a protein boost, consider adding cooked chickpeas or shredded chicken to the mixture before baking. Incorporating these can transform the dish into a more substantial meal, especially appealing for busy weeknights when you need something hearty and filling.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

If your pasta bake comes out too dry, you may have overcooked it during baking. Be sure to keep an eye on the bake as it cooks; adding a splash of vegetable broth before you bake can help maintain moisture. Alternatively, ensure that you have enough cheese on top; cheese can create steam as it melts, which helps retain moisture in the dish.

On the other hand, if you find the bake too saucy, it might be due to excess moisture from the vegetables. To combat this, make sure you are patting your veggies dry before roasting. This will help prevent them from releasing too much liquid during the baking process.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use other types of pasta?

Absolutely! Feel free to use any pasta shape you prefer, such as penne, rotini, or gluten-free pasta.

→ How can I store leftovers?

Store any leftover pasta bake in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven for best results.

→ What other vegetables work well in this recipe?

You can use a variety of vegetables such as broccoli, eggplant, or asparagus, depending on what you have available.

→ Can I add protein to this dish?

Yes! You could add cooked chicken, sausage, or even beans for a vegetarian option.