Herbed Veggie Pasta Rice Bake

Name: Herbed Veggie Pasta Rice Bake
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 50 min
Yield: 6 servings
Ingredients: 1 cup pasta (any shape); 1 cup rice (uncooked); 2 cups vegetable broth; 1 can diced tomatoes (15 oz); 1 cup mixed bell peppers, chopped; 1 zucchini, chopped; 1 cup spinach, chopped; 1 medium onion, diced; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 2 tsp fresh basil, chopped; 2 tsp fresh oregano, chopped; Salt and pepper to taste; 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese

Highlighted under: Oven Ideas

I love experimenting with ingredients to create a dish that pleases everyone at the table. This Herbed Veggie Pasta Rice Bake has become a favorite in our household because it's a perfect blend of flavors and textures. The combination of pasta and rice provides a unique base that soaks up the herbed tomato sauce beautifully. Plus, it’s packed with colorful vegetables, making it both healthy and visually appealing. Whether you're feeding a crowd or simply looking for a comforting meal, this recipe hits the spot every time.

Created by

Lorna Whitcombe

Last updated on 2026-01-21T18:02:35.050Z

When I first made this Herbed Veggie Pasta Rice Bake, I wasn’t sure how the blend of pasta and rice would turn out. To my delight, the two worked harmoniously, creating a delightful texture that complemented the fresh vegetables. I discovered that cooking the rice slightly less than usual helps it stay firm, ensuring that it doesn’t become mushy by the time it’s baked.

The infusion of herbs, especially fresh basil and oregano, adds an aromatic flavor that transports you to a sun-drenched Italian kitchen. Trust me, using fresh herbs makes a significant difference—these subtle notes elevate the entire dish and make it stand out on any dinner table.

Why You'll Love This Recipe
A delightful blend of pasta and rice creates unique textures.
Packed with colorful veggies for a healthy and vibrant dish.
Herbed flavors elevate the comfort of a classic bake.

The Role of Vegetables in the Bake

In this Herbed Veggie Pasta Rice Bake, the vegetables play a crucial role in balancing flavor and nutrition. The vibrant colors not only make the dish visually appealing but also introduce a variety of vitamins and minerals. Bell peppers add sweetness and crunch, while zucchini contributes moisture and a mild flavor. Spinach brings a deep green color and packs in iron, making the dish even more wholesome. Consider experimenting with seasonal vegetables; for instance, asparagus or cherry tomatoes can add unique flavors and elevate this bake.

The keyword to a successful baked dish is even cooking. When sautéing the vegetables, ensure they are cut into similar sizes to promote even tenderness. I often cut the bell peppers and zucchini into bite-sized pieces. Cooking them over medium heat for about 5-7 minutes allows them to soften and release their flavors without becoming mushy. Keep an eye out for a slight caramelization on the edges, as this adds a delightful depth that complements the herbed sauce.

Perfecting the Sauce

The herbed tomato sauce is what ties this dish together, ensuring each component contributes to a harmonious flavor profile. Using canned diced tomatoes provides a convenient base; however, you can enhance the sauce by adding a splash of balsamic vinegar or a pinch of red pepper flakes for added depth. If you prefer a smoother texture, consider blending the diced tomatoes before mixing in the other ingredients. This makes for a luxurious coating that clings beautifully to the pasta and rice.

For those who love bold flavors, feel free to adjust the amount of fresh basil and oregano according to your taste. A good rule of thumb is to start with the recommended amounts, then add more if you're seeking that extra herby punch. Always remember to season with salt and pepper at the end; this allows you to control how much seasoning is needed based on the natural flavors of the vegetables and sauce.

Storing and Serving Suggestions

This Herbed Veggie Pasta Rice Bake not only makes for a comforting dinner but also stores beautifully. After baking, allow the dish to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It stays fresh in the refrigerator for up to four days, making it an excellent make-ahead meal for busy weekdays. If you'd like to freeze it, cut individual portions and wrap them tightly to avoid freezer burn, ensuring they last up to three months.

When it's time to serve, consider pairing the bake with a simple side salad or garlic bread for a complete meal. You might also want to incorporate a sprinkle of nutritional yeast or a dash of hot sauce for a zesty finish. Should you find yourself with leftovers, reheating in a microwave for about 2-3 minutes should suffice, but for a crispy topping, popping it back into a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10-15 minutes works wonders!

Ingredients

Gather these simple ingredients to get started.

Ingredients

1 cup pasta (any shape)
1 cup rice (uncooked)
2 cups vegetable broth
1 can diced tomatoes (15 oz)
1 cup mixed bell peppers, chopped
1 zucchini, chopped
1 cup spinach, chopped
1 medium onion, diced
3 cloves garlic, minced
2 tsp fresh basil, chopped
2 tsp fresh oregano, chopped
Salt and pepper to taste
1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese

Mix the ingredients thoroughly for the best flavor.

Instructions

Follow these steps for a scrumptious Herbed Veggie Pasta Rice Bake.

Cook the Pasta and Rice

In a large pot, bring vegetable broth to a boil. Add the pasta and rice, cook according to package instructions until both are al dente. Drain and set aside.

Prepare the Vegetables

In a large skillet, heat some olive oil over medium heat. Sauté onion and garlic until fragrant. Add bell peppers, zucchini, and spinach, and cook until vegetables are tender.

Combine Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked pasta and rice with the sautéed vegetables, diced tomatoes, fresh herbs, and seasonings. Mix well to ensure everything is well-coated.

Bake the Dish

Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Transfer the mixture to a greased baking dish and sprinkle shredded mozzarella cheese on top. Bake for about 30 minutes or until the cheese is bubbly and golden.

Let the dish cool for a few minutes before serving.

Pro Tips

For an extra kick, add some red pepper flakes or a splash of balsamic vinegar to the mix before baking. You can also layer fresh herbs on top before serving for added freshness!

Variations to Try

While this recipe calls for specific vegetables, feel free to adapt it to your preferences. Seasonal veggies like cauliflower, carrots, or even eggplant can all be great additions or substitutes. Additionally, for a protein boost, consider incorporating cooked beans, chickpeas, or diced chicken. Just be sure to adjust the cooking times slightly if you're adding raw or frozen proteins to ensure everything bakes evenly.

If you're looking for a gluten-free option, swap out the pasta for gluten-free varieties or use more rice. High-quality gluten-free pasta works well, but keep in mind that it may cook faster than regular pasta. Monitor it closely during the boiling stage to prevent mushiness, then proceed with the recipe as directed.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

One common issue with baked dishes, especially those with a mix of starches like pasta and rice, is becoming too dry. If you notice your bake is on the dry side after baking, a simple fix is to pour a little extra vegetable broth over it just before serving or reheat it. The residual heat helps incorporate moisture without making it soupy.

If you find that the cheese is browning too quickly while baking, consider covering the dish with aluminum foil for the first half of the baking time. Remove it later to allow for that desirable bubbly, golden cheese topping while preventing over-browning.

Serving for a Crowd

This Herbed Veggie Pasta Rice Bake is perfect for gatherings or potlucks. To serve a larger group, simply double the recipe and use a larger baking dish. The baking time may increase slightly, so check for doneness by ensuring the cheese is melted and bubbly, and the edges are golden. Allow to rest for about 10 minutes after baking for easier serving.

Consider offering a variety of toppings or mix-ins at the table, such as crushed red pepper, fresh herbs, or grated Parmesan. This interactive serving style allows guests to customize their portions, making it an engaging and delicious dining experience!

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use different vegetables?

Absolutely! Feel free to swap in any seasonal vegetables you have on hand.

→ Is this recipe freezer-friendly?

Yes, it freezes well! Just make sure to cool it completely before freezing.

→ What type of cheese can I use?

You can substitute mozzarella with any cheese that melts well, such as cheddar or provolone.

→ Can I make this dish vegan?

Yes! Simply omit the cheese or use a dairy-free alternative.