Are you ready to indulge in a delightful twist on your favorite comfort foods? Imagine the rich flavors of pizza combined with the heartiness of pasta, all baked to perfection in one dish! Our Vegan Pizza Pasta Casserole is not just a meal; it’s a celebration of Italian cuisine that’s sure to impress both vegans and non-vegans alike. With a prep time of just 15 minutes and a total cooking time of 45 minutes, this dish is perfect for busy weeknights or a cozy weekend gathering. Get ready to dive into layers of cheesy goodness, vibrant veggies, and mouthwatering marinara that will have everyone asking for seconds!
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 30 mins
Total Time: 45 mins
Cuisine: Italian
Serves: 6 servings
Ingredients
- 12 oz penne pasta
- 1 cup marinara sauce
- 1 cup vegan cheese, shredded
- 1 bell pepper, diced
- 1 cup mushrooms, sliced
- 1/2 cup olives, sliced
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) to ensure it's ready for baking the casserole.
- In a large pot, bring water to a boil. Once boiling, add a pinch of salt and the 12 oz of penne pasta. Cook according to package instructions until al dente, usually about 8-10 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
- While the pasta is cooking, prepare the vegetables. Dice the bell pepper and slice the mushrooms. If you haven't done so already, slice the olives as well.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked penne pasta, 1 cup of marinara sauce, 1 cup of shredded vegan cheese, the diced bell pepper, sliced mushrooms, and sliced olives. Add 1 tsp of Italian seasoning, and season with salt and pepper to taste. Mix everything together until the pasta is evenly coated with the sauce and ingredients are well distributed.
- Transfer the pasta mixture into a greased 9x13 inch baking dish, spreading it out evenly. Sprinkle any remaining vegan cheese on top for a cheesy finish.
- Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil to prevent the top from browning too quickly, and place it in the preheated oven.
- Bake the casserole for 20 minutes covered, then remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes, or until the top is golden and bubbly.
- Once done, remove the casserole from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before serving. This will help the flavors meld together and make it easier to serve.
- Serve the Vegan Pizza Pasta Casserole warm, garnished with fresh herbs if desired, and enjoy your delicious Italian-inspired dish!
Tips
- Perfect Pasta: To achieve the ideal texture, cook the penne pasta just until al dente. This ensures it holds up well during baking and doesn’t become mushy.
- Customize Your Veggies: Feel free to swap in your favorite vegetables! Zucchini, spinach, or even artichokes can add a unique flavor profile to your casserole.
- Cheese Options: Experiment with different brands of vegan cheese for varied textures and flavors. Some melt better than others, so find your favorite!
- Layering Flavors: For an extra kick, consider adding a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the marinara sauce before mixing it with the pasta.
- Make Ahead: This casserole is perfect for meal prep! Assemble it a day in advance, store it in the fridge, and simply pop it in the oven when you’re ready to bake.
- Garnish for Flair: Don’t forget to top your casserole with fresh herbs like basil or parsley before serving. It adds a burst of color and freshness that elevates the dish.
- Serving Suggestions: Pair your Vegan Pizza Pasta Casserole with a crisp side salad or garlic bread for a complete Italian feast that everyone will love!
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 285kcal
Carbohydrates: 50g
Protein: 9g
Fat: 6g
Saturated Fat: 2g
Cholesterol: 0mg
