Vegetarian Classic Baked Pasta

Savor the warmth and heartiness of our Vegetarian Classic Baked Pasta, a comforting dish packed with wholesome vegetables and rich, cheesy goodness. Featuring perfectly cooked penne pasta tossed in a vibrant tomato-based sauce brimming with sautéed bell peppers, zucchini, mushrooms, and aromatic herbs, this recipe brings bold flavors to every bite. Topped with a generous layer of gooey mozzarella and nutty parmesan, this baked pasta achieves the perfect golden crust in the oven. With just 20 minutes of prep time and simple ingredients, this family-friendly recipe is ideal for weeknight dinners or casual gatherings. Serve it hot, garnished with fresh basil for an elegant finishing touch. Whether you’re catering to vegetarians or simply craving a classic Italian favorite, this dish is sure to satisfy!

Nutriscore Rating: 73/100

Prep Time:20 mins

Cook Time:40 mins

Total Time:60 mins

Servings: 6

Ingredients

• 500 grams penne pasta
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 large onion, chopped
• 3 garlic cloves, minced
• 2 medium bell peppers, diced (any color)
• 1 medium zucchini, diced
• 200 grams mushrooms, sliced
• 800 grams canned diced tomatoes
• 2 tablespoons tomato paste
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon dried basil
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 0.5 teaspoon black pepper
• 200 grams mozzarella cheese, shredded
• 100 grams parmesan cheese, grated

Directions

Step 1

Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F).

Step 2

Cook the penne pasta according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.

Step 3

In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add chopped onion and sauté for 3-4 minutes until translucent.

Step 4

Add minced garlic and cook for another 1 minute, ensuring it doesn't burn.

Step 5

Stir in the diced bell peppers, zucchini, and mushrooms. Cook for about 5-7 minutes until the vegetables are softened.

Step 6

Add the canned diced tomatoes and tomato paste into the skillet and stir to combine.

Step 7

Season the sauce with dried oregano, dried basil, salt, and black pepper. Bring the mixture to a simmer and let it cook for 10 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.

Step 8

Combine the cooked pasta with the vegetable sauce and mix thoroughly in a large mixing bowl.

Step 9

Transfer the pasta mixture into a greased baking dish (approximately 9x13 inches).

Step 10

Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese evenly over the top of the pasta.

Step 11

Follow with an even layer of grated parmesan cheese.

Step 12

Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, until the cheese has melted and is lightly golden brown.

Step 13

Remove from the oven and let it cool slightly before serving.

Step 14

Serve hot, optionally garnished with fresh basil leaves or additional parmesan cheese.

Nutrition Facts

Serving size	(2464.3g)

Amount per serving	% Daily Value*
Calories	3646.1

Total Fat 136.5g	0%
Saturated Fat 55.5g	0%
Polyunsaturated Fat 9.5g
Cholesterol 273.1mg	0%
Sodium 6414.4mg	0%
Total Carbohydrate 450.9g	0%
Dietary Fiber 47.1g	0%
Total Sugars 55.3g
Protein 166.9g	0%

Vitamin D 20IU	0%
Calcium 2907.8mg	0%
Iron 28.7mg	0%
Potassium 4961.3mg	0%

*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.

Source of Calories

Fat: 33.2%

Protein: 18.0%

Carbs: 48.7%