Herbed Veggie Pasta Rice Bake

Name: Herbed Veggie Pasta Rice Bake
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 40 min
Total time: 1 h
Yield: 6 servings
Ingredients: 2 cups cooked pasta (penne or fusilli); 2 cups cooked rice; 1 cup chopped bell peppers (red and yellow); 1 cup diced zucchini; 1 cup chopped spinach; 1 cup diced tomatoes; 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese; 1/4 cup olive oil; 2 tablespoons fresh basil, chopped; 1 tablespoon fresh thyme, chopped; Salt and pepper to taste

Highlighted under: Simple Recipes

I love how easy it is to create a delicious meal with just a few simple ingredients, and this Herbed Veggie Pasta Rice Bake is a delightful example. Packed with vibrant vegetables and aromatic herbs, it’s a comforting dish that brings warmth to any table. The combination of pasta and rice creates a unique texture that's both hearty and satisfying. Whether you're making it for a family dinner or a cozy gathering with friends, this bake is sure to win hearts and taste buds alike.

Created by

Kitty Lawrence

Last updated on 2026-01-21T20:02:37.169Z

When I first experimented with combining pasta and rice, I was amazed by the delightful texture it created. I was looking for a way to use up leftover veggies from my fridge and stumbled upon the perfect blend of flavors. Adding herbs like basil and thyme not only elevated the taste but also filled my kitchen with an invigorating aroma.

One tip I learned is to slightly undercook the pasta before mixing it in, as it will absorb some of the sauce while baking, ensuring a perfect consistency. This dish has quickly become a weeknight favorite in my home!

        Why You Will Love This Recipe
        Delicious blend of herbs and spices that elevate every bite
A one-dish meal that’s easy to prepare and clean up
Versatile - perfect for using up leftover veggies or customizing to your taste

      

Understanding the Flavor Profile

The Herbed Veggie Pasta Rice Bake is not just a filling dish; it's a delightful mix of flavors that come together beautifully. The fresh basil and thyme add an aromatic touch that elevates the simple combination of pasta and rice. I recommend using freshly chopped herbs over dried ones for a bright, vibrant flavor that can really transform your dish. You'll notice that as it bakes, the aroma fills your kitchen, making it inviting and warm.

Incorporating a variety of vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, and spinach brings both color and nutrition to this bake. These veggies not only add sweetness and earthiness but also contribute to the overall texture, making each bite satisfying. When choosing your vegetables, consider seasonal options for the best taste and freshness.

Tips for Perfecting the Bake

To ensure even cooking, the mixing of pasta, rice, and veggies is crucial. I suggest using a large bowl to avoid splatters and allow for adequate mixing. When incorporating ingredients, make sure they are evenly distributed before transferring them to the baking dish. Gently pressing the mixture down helps it to cook uniformly and creates a desirable cohesiveness in texture during baking.

If you prefer a crunchy top, uncover the dish in the last 15 minutes of baking, allowing it to brown to a golden hue. Visual cues are essential; look for a bubbly top and edges that are slightly crisp. This adds a nice contrast to the soft interior and enhances the overall mouthfeel.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients to make this delightful bake:

Ingredients

2 cups cooked pasta (penne or fusilli)
2 cups cooked rice
1 cup chopped bell peppers (red and yellow)
1 cup diced zucchini
1 cup chopped spinach
1 cup diced tomatoes
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1/4 cup olive oil
2 tablespoons fresh basil, chopped
1 tablespoon fresh thyme, chopped
Salt and pepper to taste

Once you have all your ingredients ready, you're set to begin.

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to create your Herbed Veggie Pasta Rice Bake:

Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a large baking dish with cooking spray or olive oil.

Mix the Ingredients

In a large bowl, combine the cooked pasta, cooked rice, chopped bell peppers, zucchini, spinach, diced tomatoes, and Parmesan cheese. Drizzle with olive oil and add the herbs, salt, and pepper. Mix thoroughly until all ingredients are well combined.

Transfer to Baking Dish

Pour the mixture into the prepared baking dish, evenly spreading it out. To ensure even cooking, gently press down on the mixture.

Bake

Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 25 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 15 minutes until the top is golden and bubbling.

Serve

Let it cool for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy your Herbed Veggie Pasta Rice Bake warm!

Enjoy your delicious and satisfying dish!

Pro Tips

For an extra boost of flavor, consider adding a pinch of red pepper flakes or some sautéed garlic into the mix.

Make-Ahead and Storage

This Herbed Veggie Pasta Rice Bake is an excellent make-ahead option. You can prepare it up to a day in advance. Simply follow the mixing process and transfer the mixture to the baking dish, then cover tightly with plastic wrap and refrigerate. When you're ready to bake, remove the wrap and allow it to sit at room temperature for 30 minutes before placing it in the oven; this helps ensure even cooking.

Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 20 minutes or until warmed through. Alternatively, you can pop it in the microwave for quicker reheating, though I recommend saving the bubbly texture by using the oven when possible.

Ingredient Substitutions

Flexibility is key in this recipe. If you're out of bell peppers, you can substitute with diced carrots or even corn for sweetness. Fresh spinach could be replaced with kale; just ensure to finely chop it as it can be a bit tougher. This recipe is perfect for using up any vegetables you have on hand, so feel free to get creative with substitutions based on seasons or personal preferences.

For a dairy-free option, nutritional yeast can stand in for Parmesan, providing a cheesy flavor without the milk. Additionally, using brown rice instead of white can add a nuttier flavor and more nutrition, while gluten-free pasta options like rice or quinoa pasta will work just as well, making this a versatile dish for various dietary needs.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use other types of pasta?

Yes, you can use any pasta shape you prefer! Just ensure it's cooked al dente.

→ How can I make this dish vegan?

You can replace the Parmesan cheese with a vegan cheese substitute or nutritional yeast.

→ Can I prepare this dish in advance?

Absolutely! You can assemble the dish a day before and refrigerate it. Just add a few extra minutes to the baking time.

→ What can I serve with this bake?

This dish goes well with a green salad or crusty bread on the side.