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Cheesy Zucchini Pasta Bake recipe

Cheesy Zucchini Pasta Bake

Zac, the creator of Eat Every Slice, smiling in a kitchen while wearing an apron, specializing in Italian-American recipes.Zac
A delicious and easy-to-make cheesy zucchini pasta bake that's perfect for family dinners.
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Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 50 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 10 minutes
Course Main Course
Cuisine Italian American
Servings 8 servings
Calories 320 kcal

Equipment

  • 1 9x13-inch baking dish greased
  • 1 Large skillet
  • 1 Mixing Bowl large

Ingredients
  

Main Ingredients

  • 2 medium zucchinis thinly sliced
  • 12 oz pasta penne or rigatoni
  • 2 cups marinara sauce
  • 1 cup ricotta cheese
  • 2 cups mozzarella cheese shredded
  • 1/2 cup Parmesan cheese grated
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 2 cloves garlic minced
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning

Optional Add-Ins

  • 1 cup spinach chopped
  • 1/2 cup mushrooms sliced
  • 1/2 cup bell peppers diced
  • 1/4 cup sun-dried tomatoes chopped

Instructions
 

Preparation

  • Preheat oven to 375°F. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté for about a minute until fragrant. Add sliced zucchini, sprinkle with salt, and cook for 5-7 minutes until tender and lightly browned. Remove from heat and set aside.
  • Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and rinse under cold water to stop the cooking process.
  • In a large mixing bowl, combine cooked pasta, marinara sauce, ricotta cheese, half of the mozzarella, and Italian seasoning. Gently fold in sautéed zucchini and any optional add-ins.
  • Transfer mixture to a greased 9x13 inch baking dish. Top with remaining mozzarella and Parmesan cheese. Cover with aluminum foil.

Baking

  • Place covered baking dish in the oven and bake for 25 minutes. Remove foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until cheese is bubbly and golden brown.

Serving

  • Let the pasta bake cool for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy warm with a side salad or garlic bread.

Storage

  • Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave before serving.

Notes

Pro Tips: Use a combination of mozzarella and Parmesan for the best cheesy texture. Ingredient Substitutions: Try using whole wheat pasta for a healthier option. How to Serve: Serve with a side salad or garlic bread. Storage & Freshness: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Make-Ahead Tips: Assemble the bake and refrigerate overnight, then bake before serving.
Keyword cheesy pasta dish, vegetarian pasta bake, zucchini casserole