Get ready to transform your ordinary dinner into an extraordinary culinary adventure! This Cheesy Rotini Pasta with Roasted Vegetables is not just a meal – it's a flavor explosion that combines the perfect blend of creamy cheese, tender pasta, and caramelized vegetables. Imagine twirling your fork into a bowl of golden, cheese-coated rotini, surrounded by sweet, roasted vegetables that bring a burst of color and nutrition to every bite. Whether you're a busy parent looking for a quick family meal or a food lover craving something deliciously comforting, this recipe is about to become your new go-to dinner sensation!
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 25 mins
Total Time: 35 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 8 oz rotini pasta
- 2 cups mixed vegetables (zucchini, bell peppers, carrots)
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup cream cheese
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). This will ensure that the vegetables roast perfectly while you prepare the pasta.
- In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil. Add the 8 oz of rotini pasta to the boiling water and cook according to package instructions, usually around 8-10 minutes, until al dente. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
- While the pasta is cooking, prepare the mixed vegetables. Chop 2 cups of zucchini, bell peppers, and carrots into bite-sized pieces. Spread them evenly on a baking sheet.
- Drizzle the chopped vegetables with olive oil and season with salt, pepper, and half of the garlic powder. Toss to coat the vegetables evenly.
- Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and roast the vegetables for about 15-20 minutes, or until they are tender and slightly caramelized, stirring halfway through for even cooking.
- Once the pasta is cooked, reserve about 1/2 cup of the pasta water, then drain the remaining water from the pot. Return the pasta to the pot.
- Add the roasted vegetables to the pot with the pasta. Then, add 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese, 1/2 cup of cream cheese, the remaining garlic powder, and salt and pepper to taste.
- Mix everything together gently over low heat, adding reserved pasta water a little at a time to create a creamy sauce. Stir until the cheeses are melted and everything is well combined.
- Once the pasta is creamy and heated through, remove from heat. Serve the cheesy rotini pasta in bowls, garnished with additional shredded cheese or fresh herbs if desired.
- Enjoy your delicious Cheesy Rotini Pasta with Roasted Vegetables!
Tips
- Vegetable Roasting Secrets: Cut your vegetables into uniform sizes to ensure even roasting. This helps them caramelize beautifully and cook at the same rate.
- Pasta Water Magic: Always reserve some pasta water before draining. The starchy liquid is a chef's secret weapon for creating a smooth, creamy sauce that clings perfectly to your pasta.
- Cheese Melting Technique: Add cheeses off the direct heat to prevent burning and ensure a silky smooth texture.
- Customize Your Veggies: Feel free to swap in seasonal vegetables or use what you have on hand. Broccoli, cauliflower, or cherry tomatoes work wonderfully in this recipe.
- Make-Ahead Friendly: You can roast the vegetables and cook the pasta in advance, making this a great option for meal prep or busy weeknights.
- Cheese Pro Tip: For extra richness, try mixing different types of cheese like a sharp cheddar with some creamy mozzarella or parmesan.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 380kcal
Carbohydrates: 45g
Protein: 15g
Fat: 18g
Saturated Fat: 9g
Cholesterol: 45mg
