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- 2 cups penne or fusilli pasta - 1 tablespoon olive oil - 1 cup bell peppers, diced (any color) - 1 cup zucchini, diced - 1 cup spinach, chopped - 1 cup mushrooms, sliced - 2 cups marinara sauce - 1 cup ricotta cheese - 1 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded - ½ cup Parmesan cheese, grated - 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning - Salt and pepper, to taste

Quick Veggie-Packed Cheesy Pasta Bake

Discover the ultimate comfort food with our Cheesy Veggie Paradise Pasta Bake! This hearty dish features a delicious blend of creamy cheeses and colorful, fresh vegetables, making it a nutritious choice for any family meal. Easy to prepare and fully customizable, you can adapt it to your dietary preferences. With its rich flavors and gooey texture, this pasta bake is set to be a household favorite, perfect for creating memorable family moments around the dinner table.
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Ingredients
  

8 oz (about 2 cups) pasta (penne or fusilli works best)

1 tablespoon olive oil

1 small onion, diced

2 cloves garlic, minced

1 bell pepper, chopped (any color)

1 cup zucchini, diced

1 cup spinach (fresh or frozen)

1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved

1 teaspoon dried oregano

1 teaspoon dried basil

Salt and pepper, to taste

1½ cups marinara sauce

1½ cups shredded mozzarella cheese

½ cup grated Parmesan cheese

Fresh basil or parsley for garnish (optional)

Instructions
 

Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).

    Cook Pasta: In a large pot of salted boiling water, cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.

      Sauté Veggies: In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and garlic, and sauté for about 2-3 minutes until the onions become translucent.

        Add More Veggies: Stir in the chopped bell pepper and zucchini, cooking for another 5 minutes until softened. Add spinach and cherry tomatoes, cooking for another minute until the spinach wilts. Season with oregano, basil, salt, and pepper.

          Combine Pasta and Sauce: In a large bowl, combine the cooked pasta, sautéed veggies, and marinara sauce. Mix until well combined.

            Layer the Bake: In a greased 9x13 inch baking dish, spread half of the pasta mixture evenly. Sprinkle half of the mozzarella and half of the Parmesan cheese on top. Add the remaining pasta, then top with the rest of the cheese.

              Bake: Cover the dish with foil and bake for 20 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown.

                Serve: Let the bake cool for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh basil or parsley if desired. Enjoy your cheesy veggie-packed goodness!

                  Prep Time, Total Time, Servings: 15 minutes | 50 minutes | 6 servings