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Vegan Pasta Bake

This vegan pasta bake combines cooked pasta with sautéed vegetables and a cheesy, nutty sauce, then bakes until bubbling and golden on top. The dish features a crispy crust and gooey center, offering a comforting, hearty texture that’s perfect for cozy nights. It’s a versatile, forgiving recipe that can be customized with your favorite veggies and herbs.
Print Recipe
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 45 minutes
Servings: 4
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: Vegan
Calories: 350
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 8 ounces dry pasta (fusilli or penne) preferably whole grain or gluten-free
  • 1 medium zucchini diced
  • 1 bell pepper red bell pepper diced
  • 2 cloves garlic minced
  • 1/4 cup nutritional yeast for cheesy flavor
  • 1 tablespoon lemon juice brightens the flavor
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil for sautéing
  • 1/2 cup vegan cheese or cashew sauce optional for extra creaminess
  • to taste salt and pepper
  • 1/4 cup fresh basil or parsley chopped, for garnish

Equipment

  • Large pot
  • Skillet or frying pan
  • Mixing bowl
  • Baking dish
  • Oven

Method
 

  1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the pasta until just al dente, about 8-10 minutes. Drain and set aside.
  2. While the pasta cooks, heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add diced zucchini and bell pepper, sautéing until vegetables are tender and slightly caramelized, about 5-7 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
  3. In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked pasta, sautéed vegetables, nutritional yeast, lemon juice, and vegan cheese or cashew sauce. Mix everything thoroughly until well coated and creamy.
  4. Transfer the mixture into a greased baking dish, spreading it out evenly with a spatula. This helps ensure even baking and a crispy top.
  5. Bake in a preheated oven at 180°C (350°F) for 20-25 minutes, until bubbling and the top begins to turn golden brown.
  6. Remove the bake from the oven and let it rest for about 5 minutes. This allows the flavors to settle and makes it easier to serve.
  7. Sprinkle freshly chopped basil or parsley over the top just before serving for a burst of freshness and color.

Notes

Feel free to customize this bake with your favorite veggies or add a splash of hot sauce for extra heat. Resting the dish a few minutes after baking helps it set, making serving easier and cleaner.