Herb Roasted Veggie Pasta Bake

Name: Herb Roasted Veggie Pasta Bake
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 45 min
Total time: 1 h
Yield: 6 servings
Ingredients: 2 cups pasta of choice (penne or fusilli works well); 1 red bell pepper, diced; 1 zucchini, sliced; 1 cup broccoli florets; 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved; 1 small red onion, chopped; 3 tablespoons olive oil; 2 teaspoons Italian seasoning; Salt and pepper to taste; 1 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded; 1/2 cup parmesan cheese, grated

Highlighted under: Simple Cooking

I love making this Herb Roasted Veggie Pasta Bake for a delightful weeknight dinner. The combination of roasted vegetables and herb-infused pasta creates an irresistible flavor profile that my entire family enjoys. This dish is not only easy to prepare but also offers a comfort food experience without overwhelming guilt. I often find myself experimenting with different vegetable combinations based on what’s in season, and each time it turns out beautifully. It’s a flexible recipe that allows for creativity while still being satisfying and nourishing.

Created by

Flora Kensington

Last updated on 2026-01-15T13:13:40.483Z

When I first created the Herb Roasted Veggie Pasta Bake, I wanted to combine my love for pasta with healthy vegetables in a single dish. Roasting the veggies enhances their natural sweetness, and using fresh herbs elevates the entire meal. I've experimented with various cheese options, and I found that a blend of mozzarella and parmesan gives the perfect stretch and richness without overpowering the flavors of the vegetables.

One of the best parts of this recipe is that it’s incredibly adaptable. You can switch out the veggies for whatever you have on hand, like zucchini or asparagus, without losing the essence of the dish. The key is to roast the vegetables until they’re just caramelized, giving you that sought-after depth of flavor that people will rave about.

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Colorful medley of veggies adds vibrancy to your table
Comforting pasta baked to perfection with a cheesy crust
Easy to prepare, making weeknight dinners a breeze

      

Ingredient Insights

The choice of pasta can greatly influence the texture and overall enjoyment of this Herb Roasted Veggie Pasta Bake. I prefer using penne or fusilli because their ridges and curves hold the sauce beautifully, ensuring that every bite is flavorful. If you're looking for a gluten-free alternative, quinoa pasta works well, providing a nutty flavor and chewy texture that complements the roasted veggies.

The vegetables in this bake are not just for color; they play a critical role in flavor development. Roasting the veggies caramelizes their natural sugars, enhancing their sweetness and adding depth to the dish. If you want to swap ingredients based on what's in season or what you have on hand, consider using asparagus or carrots—just be sure to adjust the roasting time accordingly, as denser vegetables may need a couple of extra minutes.

Make-Ahead Tips

This pasta bake is a perfect candidate for meal prep. You can roast the vegetables and cook the pasta a day in advance, storing them separately in the refrigerator. When you're ready to eat, combine them with the cheeses and bake as instructed. This not only saves time but allows the flavors to meld together beautifully overnight.

If you have leftovers, they can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through, around 20 minutes, for the best texture. Microwaving is a quicker option, but the pasta may lose its crispy topping. If you plan to freeze it, do so before baking, and allow it to thaw in the fridge overnight before baking as usual.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients to create a delicious Herb Roasted Veggie Pasta Bake:

Ingredients

2 cups pasta of choice (penne or fusilli works well)
1 red bell pepper, diced
1 zucchini, sliced
1 cup broccoli florets
1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
1 small red onion, chopped
3 tablespoons olive oil
2 teaspoons Italian seasoning
Salt and pepper to taste
1 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded
1/2 cup parmesan cheese, grated

Make sure all your ingredients are ready to create a smooth cooking process.

Instructions

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

Roast the Vegetables

Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). In a large bowl, toss the diced red bell pepper, sliced zucchini, broccoli florets, cherry tomatoes, and chopped red onion with olive oil, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Spread this mixture onto a baking sheet and roast for 25-30 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender and starting to caramelize.

Prepare the Pasta

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

Combine Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, combine the roasted vegetables and cooked pasta. Add half of the mozzarella and parmesan cheeses, mixing well to combine. Transfer the mixture to a greased baking dish.

Top with Cheese and Bake

Sprinkle the remaining mozzarella and parmesan over the top of the pasta and veggie mixture. Bake in the preheated oven for another 15-20 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden.

Let the pasta bake cool for a few minutes before serving to allow for easier slicing.

Pro Tips

Feel free to add your favorite herbs or spices to elevate the flavor. Fresh basil or parsley can be sprinkled on top before serving for a fresh finish.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

If you find that your pasta is mushy after baking, make sure you don’t overcook it during the initial boiling stage. Cooking it just until al dente is essential, as it will continue to soften in the oven. Keeping an eye on the pasta packaging for specific cooking times can help prevent this common pitfall.

Another common issue can be uneven cheese melting. To ensure your top layer gets that perfect golden crust, you can broil the dish for the last 1-2 minutes of baking. Just keep an eye on it to prevent burning, and rotate the dish if your oven has hot spots.

Serving Suggestions

This Herb Roasted Veggie Pasta Bake is wonderfully versatile when it comes to serving. Pair it with a crisp green salad dressed in a light vinaigrette to balance the richness of the cheeses. Additionally, a side of garlic bread can elevate the meal, making it feel even more comforting and complete.

For a heartier dish, consider adding protein like rotisserie chicken or cooked sausage to the pasta mixture before baking. This not only boosts nutrition but also gives the bake a satisfying flavor profile, especially when seasoned with similar herbs a second time, tying everything together.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use gluten-free pasta?

Absolutely! Just substitute any gluten-free pasta of your choice for the regular pasta.

→ Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare it up to the baking step, cover it, and store it in the refrigerator. When ready to serve, add an extra 10-15 minutes to the baking time.

→ What other vegetables can I use?

You can use any vegetables you like, such as spinach, carrots, or asparagus. Just ensure they roast well within the time specified.

→ Can I freeze leftovers?

Yes, leftovers can be frozen in an airtight container. Reheat in the oven for the best texture.