Herbed Veggie Pasta Rice Bake

Name: Herbed Veggie Pasta Rice Bake
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 cup cooked pasta; 1 cup cooked rice; 2 cups mixed vegetables (bell peppers, zucchini, carrots); 1 tablespoon olive oil; 1 teaspoon dried oregano; 1 teaspoon dried basil; 2 cups marinara sauce; 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese; Salt and pepper to taste; Fresh basil for garnish

Highlighted under: Simple Cooking

I absolutely love the combination of flavors in this Herbed Veggie Pasta Rice Bake! It's a dish that brings together pasta and rice, infused with delicate herbs and colorful vegetables, creating a wholesome meal that's satisfying and nutritious. Perfect for busy weeknights or casual gatherings, I find that this recipe allows me to get creative with whatever veggies I have on hand. Plus, the creamy sauce ties everything harmoniously, making each bite a delight. Trust me, once you try it, you’ll want to make it again and again!

Created by

Flora Kensington

Last updated on 2026-01-21T19:13:35.063Z

When I first stumbled upon the idea of combining pasta and rice in a bake, I was intrigued. I experimented with different herbs and vegetables, and finally settled on a mix that complemented each other beautifully. The fresh basil and oregano lend a fragrant touch that makes the kitchen smell incredible while baking. You can even use frozen veggies if you’re short on time!

One of my favorite tips is to roast the vegetables beforehand for added flavor. Not only does it elevate the dish, but it also ensures a delightful texture. Each layer of pasta, rice, and veggies melds together for a comforting meal that everyone enjoys, making it a family favorite!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        A delightful harmony of flavors from fresh herbs and roasted vegetables
Creamy, comforting texture that appeals to all ages
Versatile dish that allows you to use whatever vegetables you have on hand

      

Ingredient Insights

The combination of cooked pasta and rice not only adds a unique texture but also boosts the dish's heartiness. Both ingredients absorb flavors beautifully, ensuring that each bite is infused with the delicious marinara sauce and herbs. If you're looking to lower carbohydrates, consider substituting half the rice with cauliflower rice, which will still give you that fulfilling texture while being a bit lighter.

Mixed vegetables bring not just color but also a variety of nutrients. Bell peppers contribute Vitamin C, while zucchini adds hydration, and carrots provide beta-carotene. Feel free to experiment; if you have spinach, kale, or even broccoli, these can all work well. Just remember that leafy greens cook down significantly, so an extra handful won’t hurt the balance of ingredients.

The choice of cheeses makes a difference too. Mozzarella offers that gooey, melted quality we all love, but you might also consider adding a sprinkle of Parmesan on top before baking for an extra umami kick. Alternatively, for a dairy-free version, there are excellent nut-based cheeses that melt reasonably well and will match the creaminess of this bake.

Technique Tips

Sautéing the vegetables before adding them to the bake serves two purposes: enhancing their flavors and ensuring they don't release too much water while baking. Aim for a slight char on the veggies, which will deepen their taste. If you notice they're releasing moisture, increase the heat slightly as this helps evaporate excess water and develop caramelization.

When mixing the ingredients, it's important to ensure even distribution of the sauce and cheese. Use a large mixing bowl to give you enough space to stir without spillage. I recommend using one hand to gently fold the ingredients rather than aggressively stirring, as this will help keep the pasta and rice intact.

Serving and Storage

After baking, let the dish rest for 5-10 minutes to set up before serving. This resting time helps the flavors meld further and makes it easier to slice and serve. Garnish with fresh basil right before serving; its aroma enhances the overall fresh flavor profile of the dish. This Herbed Veggie Pasta Rice Bake pairs beautifully with a light salad or garlic bread for a complete meal.

If you're making this ahead of time, you can assemble everything and store it in the fridge for up to 24 hours before baking. Just cover it tightly with foil to keep it fresh. It also freezes well; portion it into containers and freeze for up to three months. To reheat, simply thaw in the refrigerator overnight and bake it covered for about 25-30 minutes at 350°F (175°C) until heated through.

Ingredients

Ingredients for Herbed Veggie Pasta Rice Bake

1 cup cooked pasta
1 cup cooked rice
2 cups mixed vegetables (bell peppers, zucchini, carrots)
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 teaspoon dried oregano
1 teaspoon dried basil
2 cups marinara sauce
1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh basil for garnish

Ensure all ingredients are prepped before starting to save time during assembly!

Instructions

Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).

Prepare the Vegetables

In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add mixed vegetables and sauté for about 5-7 minutes until they are tender. Season with salt, pepper, and herbs.

Combine the Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked pasta, cooked rice, sautéed vegetables, marinara sauce, and half of the mozzarella cheese. Mix well until everything is evenly coated.

Assemble the Bake

Transfer the mixture to a baking dish and top with the remaining mozzarella cheese.

Bake

Cover with foil and bake in the preheated oven for 20 minutes. Then remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbly.

Serve

Let it cool slightly before serving. Garnish with fresh basil, and enjoy!

This dish pairs wonderfully with a fresh side salad.

Pro Tips

Feel free to customize this recipe by adding your favorite herbs or using different sauces to change the flavor profile. If you’re looking for a vegetarian protein boost, consider adding cooked lentils or chickpeas into the mixture as well!

Variations to Try

Tailoring this Herbed Veggie Pasta Rice Bake to your tastes is part of the fun! For a protein boost, consider adding cooked chicken, turkey, or beans. Just ensure that any added proteins are pre-cooked to ensure they heat evenly in the bake without overcooking the other ingredients.

For a spicy twist, incorporate red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños into the sautéed vegetables. This simple addition elevates the flavors, making it even more exciting. You could also swap the marinara sauce for a creamy Alfredo or pesto to completely transform the flavor profile.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

If your bake comes out too dry, check that you have enough sauce mixed in or cover it with foil while baking. Too much heat can also dry it out, so it's crucial to bake at the right temperature and check for doneness midway to prevent overcooking.

Conversely, if your bake is too watery, it may be due to excess moisture from the vegetables. To counteract this, ensure your sauté time is sufficient to evaporate excess liquid. If the dish still ends up watery, you can easily thicken it by adding a sprinkle of breadcrumbs on top before the final baking period.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?

Absolutely! Brown rice adds a nuttier flavor and more nutrients.

→ Is this recipe freezer-friendly?

Yes, once baked, you can freeze leftovers for easy meals. Just reheat in the oven or microwave.

→ What other vegetables can I add?

You can add virtually any vegetable you like! Spinach, broccoli, or mushrooms work great.

→ Can I make this dish vegan?

Yes! Simply substitute the cheese with a dairy-free alternative and ensure your marinara sauce is vegan-friendly.