Cheesy Veggie Pasta Bake

This Cheesy Veggie Pasta Bake is a delightful kid-friendly dish that combines traditional baked pasta with a medley of colorful vegetables. The creamy cheese sauce and tender pasta create a comforting texture, while the hidden veggies ensure a nutritious meal. It's an easy, make-ahead recipe perfect for busy weeknights, and it appeals to even the pickiest eaters!

Ingredients:

• 8 oz penne pasta
• 1 cup broccoli florets
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
• 1 cup zucchini, diced
• 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1 cup ricotta cheese
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1 teaspoon dried Italian herbs
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1/2 cup marinara sauce

Instructions:

1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook the penne pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
3. In a large mixing bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, half of the mozzarella cheese, Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, onion powder, dried Italian herbs, salt, and pepper.
4. Add the cooked pasta, broccoli, cherry tomatoes, zucchini, and marinara sauce to the cheese mixture. Stir until well combined.
5. Transfer the mixture to a greased baking dish. Top with the remaining mozzarella cheese.
6. Drizzle with olive oil and cover with aluminum foil.
7. Bake in the preheated oven for 20 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden.
8. Let cool for a few minutes before serving.