This Cheesy Vegetable Pasta Bake is the ultimate comfort food, featuring tender pasta, a medley of vegetables, and a rich, creamy cheese sauce all topped with a golden, crispy breadcrumb crust. It’s hearty, flavorful, and a satisfying dish for vegetarians and meat-eaters alike.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

A complete, balanced meal packed with vegetables and dairy
Creamy, cheesy, and irresistibly delicious
Great for feeding a crowd or meal prepping for the week
Kid-friendly and easy to customize with available ingredients
Freezer-friendly and perfect for make-ahead dinners

ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

Short pasta (such as penne, fusilli, or macaroni)
Mixed vegetables (carrots, peas, corn, green beans)
Butter
All-purpose flour
Milk
Cheddar cheese, shredded
Mozzarella cheese, shredded
Parmesan cheese, grated
Salt
Black pepper
Garlic powder
Italian seasoning
Bread crumbs
Olive oil or melted butter (for topping)
Fresh parsley (for garnish)

directions

Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
Cook pasta in salted boiling water until al dente. Drain and set aside.
Steam or lightly sauté mixed vegetables until just tender.
In a saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Stir in flour and cook for 1-2 minutes to form a roux.
Gradually whisk in milk, stirring until smooth and thickened.
Add cheddar, mozzarella, and Parmesan cheese, stirring until melted. Season with garlic powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper.
Combine cooked pasta and vegetables with the cheese sauce in a large bowl. Mix until evenly coated.
Transfer the mixture to the prepared baking dish.
In a small bowl, mix breadcrumbs with olive oil or melted butter. Sprinkle over the pasta.
Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the top is golden and bubbling.
Let rest for 5 minutes before serving. Garnish with chopped parsley.

Servings and timing

Serves: 6
Prep time: 15 minutes
Cook time: 25 minutes
Total time: 40 minutes

Variations

Use whole wheat or gluten-free pasta as needed
Add cooked chicken, sausage, or bacon for a meatier version
Swap in different vegetables such as broccoli, bell peppers, or zucchini
Stir in a bit of Dijon mustard or hot sauce for added flavor
Use vegan cheese and plant-based milk for a dairy-free version

storage/reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days
Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through or microwave individual portions
To freeze, assemble but do not bake. Cover tightly and freeze for up to 2 months. Bake from frozen at 375°F for about 45 minutes, or until hot and bubbly

FAQs

Can I use frozen vegetables?

Yes, frozen vegetables work perfectly. Just thaw and drain excess moisture before adding.

What pasta shape is best for bakes?

Short, sturdy shapes like penne, rigatoni, or rotini hold up well and catch the sauce nicely.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes, you can assemble it a day in advance and bake when ready. Store covered in the refrigerator.

Is it necessary to pre-cook the pasta?

Yes, the pasta should be cooked al dente before baking to avoid undercooked or mushy results.

Can I make this gluten-free?

Use gluten-free pasta and a gluten-free flour blend for the roux.

What kind of cheese is best for melting?

Cheddar, mozzarella, and Monterey Jack melt well and create a creamy texture.

How can I make the top extra crispy?

Use panko breadcrumbs mixed with olive oil or butter, and broil for a few minutes at the end of baking.

Can I freeze leftovers?

Yes, the baked dish freezes well. Store in a sealed container and reheat in the oven.

What can I serve with this pasta bake?

A green salad or garlic bread pairs well to complete the meal.

How do I keep the cheese sauce from becoming grainy?

Use low heat and avoid overheating the cheese. Add cheese after the white sauce has thickened and been removed from direct heat.

Conclusion

This Cheesy Vegetable Pasta Bake is a hearty, comforting dish perfect for busy weeknights or relaxed weekend dinners. Easy to make, customize, and store, it’s sure to become a family favorite. Ready for the next one?