Name: Zucchini and Bacon Pasta Bake
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 40 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 12 oz pasta (penne, rigatoni, or similar); 2 medium zucchinis, sliced or chopped; 6 slices bacon, cooked and crumbled; 1 medium onion, diced; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 cup cream or milk; 2 cups shredded cheese (cheddar, mozzarella, or blend); 1 tbsp olive oil or butter; Salt and pepper to taste; 1 tsp Italian seasoning or fresh herbs (optional)

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Zucchini and Bacon Pasta Bake combines tender zucchini, crispy bacon, pasta, and creamy cheese in one satisfying casserole. It’s a comforting dish perfect for family dinners, potlucks, or simple Sunday suppers.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Savory, cheesy, and comforting
Incorporates fresh vegetables and bacon for hearty flavor
One-dish meal—easy cleanup
Ideal for feeding a crowd
Great for repurposing leftover cooked bacon
Fills bellies and warms hearts
Easily prepped ahead
Adaptable with different cheeses or pastas
Nutritious by including zucchini
Delicious reheated for next-day lunches

ingredients

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

Pasta (penne, rigatoni, or similar)
Zucchini, sliced or chopped
Bacon, cooked and crumbled
Onion, diced
Garlic, minced
Cream or milk
Shredded cheese (cheddar, mozzarella, or a blend)
Olive oil or butter
Salt and pepper
Italian seasoning or fresh herbs (optional)

directions

Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente; drain and set aside.
In an oven-safe skillet or pan, sauté diced onion and garlic in olive oil until translucent.
Add sliced zucchini and cook until just tender; season with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning.
Stir in cooked crumbled bacon and cooked pasta.
Pour in cream (or milk) and half of the shredded cheese; stir to combine.
Sprinkle remaining cheese on top.
Bake for 15–20 minutes, or until cheese is melted and bubbly with a light golden crust.
Let rest for a few minutes before serving.

Servings and timing

Servings: 6
Prep time: 15 minutes
Cook time: 25 minutes (10 min stovetop + 15 min bake)
Total time: 40 minutes

Variations

Substitute turkey bacon or pancetta
Use Greek yogurt in place of cream for tanginess
Add bell peppers, mushrooms, or spinach
Swap pasta for gluten-free or whole-wheat versions
Top with breadcrumbs for extra crunch

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 servings. To freeze, portion into freezer-safe containers and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge before reheating.

FAQs

Can I make this ahead of time?

Yes, assemble the dish up to the point before baking, cover, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking.

What pasta works best?

Medium tubular pasta like penne or rigatoni holds the sauce well and complements the bake.

Can I reduce the cream?

Yes, substitute part of the cream with milk or Greek yogurt.

Is this dish gluten-free?

Yes, with a gluten-free pasta variety.

Can I make it vegetarian?

Skip the bacon and add sautéed mushrooms or chickpeas for a meat-free version.

What cheese should I use?

Cheddar and mozzarella are classic, but a blend with Gruyère or Parmesan adds richness.

How do I prevent soggy zucchini?

Sauté zucchini until slightly golden to reduce moisture before baking.

Can I double the recipe?

Yes, adjust baking dish size accordingly and check bake time remains sufficient.

What sides complement this bake?

Serve with a simple salad, garlic bread, or steamed vegetables.

Is it kid-friendly?

Yes, kids usually enjoy the combination of pasta, cheese, and bacon.

Conclusion

Zucchini and Bacon Pasta Bake delivers comfort, flavor, and ease—all in one dish. Whether for a cozy family meal or a dish to share at gatherings, it’s a practical and delicious recipe worth making again and again. Enjoy the creamy, cheesy goodness with a boost of fresh zucchini and crispy bacon.

Zucchini and Bacon Pasta Bake

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Zucchini and Bacon Pasta Bake is a creamy, cheesy casserole blending pasta, fresh zucchini, and crispy bacon. This hearty and satisfying dish is perfect for family dinners, potlucks, and meal prep.

Author: Emma Harper
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 25 mins
Total Time: 40 mins
Yield: 6 servings 1x
Category: Main Course
Method: Baking
Cuisine: American
Diet: Halal

Instructions

Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
In a large oven-safe skillet or pan, heat olive oil and sauté onion and garlic until translucent.
Add zucchini and cook until tender; season with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning.
Stir in crumbled bacon and cooked pasta.
Pour in cream and half the cheese, stirring to combine.
Sprinkle the remaining cheese over the top.
Bake for 15–20 minutes until cheese is melted and golden.
Let rest for a few minutes before serving.