Go Back

Vegan Pasta Bake

This vegan pasta bake combines whole wheat pasta with a flavorful tomato sauce infused with herbs, mixed with colorful vegetables like bell peppers, spinach, and zucchini. Topped with melty vegan cheese, it develops a golden, bubbly crust, offering a hearty and satisfying texture. The dish is baked until the cheese is gooey and the vegetables are tender, creating an inviting, casserole-style presentation.
Print Recipe
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 45 minutes
Servings: 4
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: Vegan
Calories: 420
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 12 ounces whole wheat pasta penne or ziti works well
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil for sautéing vegetables
  • 1 cup chopped bell peppers any color
  • 2 cups baby spinach roughly chopped
  • 1 medium zucchini sliced into half-moons
  • 3 cups tomato sauce preferably homemade or low-sodium
  • 1 teaspoon dried basil fresh basil can be used too
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano for added flavor
  • 1 cup vegan cheese shredded, such as vegan mozzarella

Equipment

  • Large pot
  • Baking dish
  • Skillet
  • Wooden spoon

Method
 

  1. Bring a large pot of water to a boil, then add the pasta and cook until al dente according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
  2. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly oil a baking dish and set aside.
  3. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add chopped bell peppers and zucchini, sautéing until they soften and become fragrant, about 5 minutes. Add the spinach and cook until wilted, about 2 minutes.
  4. Stir in the tomato sauce, dried basil, and oregano. Let the mixture simmer for 5 minutes until well combined and heated through.
  5. Combine the cooked pasta with the vegetable and sauce mixture in a large bowl, mixing thoroughly so every piece is coated.
  6. Transfer the pasta mixture into the prepared baking dish and spread evenly.
  7. Sprinkle the shredded vegan cheese evenly over the top of the pasta.
  8. Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and slightly golden around the edges.
  9. Remove from the oven and let it rest for 5 minutes. This helps the dish set and makes serving easier.
  10. Serve hot, garnished with fresh basil if desired. Enjoy the cheesy, colorful, and hearty vegan pasta bake!

Notes

Feel free to customize with additional vegetables or vegan proteins like mushrooms or vegan sausage for extra flavor.