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Vegan Pasta Bake

This vegan pasta bake is a comforting, one-pan dish that combines tender pasta, rich tomato sauce, and colorful vegetables baked until bubbling and golden. It features a cheesy flavor from nutritional yeast and herbs, with a final texture that is hearty, slightly crispy on top, and saucy inside. Perfect for busy weeknights, it’s a flexible, satisfying meal with minimal dishes to clean.
Print Recipe
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 40 minutes
Servings: 4
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: Italian
Calories: 420
Ingredients Equipment Method

Ingredients
  

  • 12 oz dried pasta (rigatoni or penne) preferably gluten-free if needed
  • 2 cups marinara sauce store-bought or homemade
  • 1 cup chopped vegetables (bell peppers, zucchini, spinach) use fresh or leftover
  • 1/2 cup nutritional yeast for cheesy flavor
  • 2 tbsp olive oil for sautéing vegetables
  • 1 tsp dried oregano or fresh if available
  • 1 tsp dried basil or fresh basil
  • to taste salt and pepper for seasoning

Equipment

  • Large pot
  • Large mixing bowl
  • 9x13 inch baking dish
  • Spatula or large spoon
  • Oven

Method
 

  1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the pasta until just al dente, about 1 minute less than package instructions. Drain and set aside.
  2. Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F). In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked pasta, marinara sauce, chopped vegetables, dried oregano, basil, and half of the nutritional yeast. Mix everything until well coated and evenly distributed.
  3. Pour the pasta mixture into a 9x13 inch baking dish, spreading it out evenly with a spatula or spoon.
  4. Sprinkle the remaining nutritional yeast and a pinch of salt and pepper over the top for a cheesy, flavorful crust.
  5. Place the dish in the oven and bake uncovered for 25-30 minutes, until the top is golden brown and bubbling around the edges.
  6. Remove from the oven and let sit for 5 minutes — this helps the sauce thicken and makes serving easier.
  7. Garnish with freshly chopped basil or herbs if desired, then serve hot for a comforting, cheesy vegan meal.