A light, creamy, and comforting plant-based pasta dish made with fresh zucchini and yellow squash. This baked pasta is packed with wholesome vegetables, delicious flavor, and a creamy texture without feeling too heavy. It’s simple enough for a weeknight dinner and satisfying enough to serve to the whole family.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This creamy baked pasta is an easy way to add more vegetables to your meal while still enjoying a comforting pasta dish. The combination of tender zucchini, squash, creamy sauce, and baked pasta creates a flavorful meal that is both nutritious and satisfying.
- Plant-based and wholesome
- Packed with fresh vegetables
- Creamy without being overly heavy
- Easy to prepare
- Perfect for weeknight dinners
- Great for the whole family
Ingredients
- Pasta of your choice
- Fresh zucchini, sliced
- Yellow squash, sliced
- Olive oil
- Garlic, minced
- Onion, finely chopped
- Plant-based cream or dairy-free cooking cream
- Plant-based milk, as needed
- Nutritional yeast or dairy-free Parmesan
- Italian seasoning
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper
- Fresh parsley or basil, for garnish
How to Make Creamy Baked Pasta
1. Cook the Pasta
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the pasta according to the package directions until just al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. Prepare the Vegetables
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the onion and garlic and sauté until fragrant and softened. Add the sliced zucchini and squash and cook until tender but still slightly firm.
Season with Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper.
3. Make the Creamy Sauce
Reduce the heat and add the plant-based cream. Stir gently until the sauce is smooth and creamy. Add a small amount of plant-based milk if needed to reach your preferred consistency.
Stir in nutritional yeast or dairy-free Parmesan for an extra savory flavor.
4. Combine Everything
Add the cooked pasta to the skillet and gently toss until the pasta and vegetables are evenly coated in the creamy sauce.
Transfer the mixture to a lightly greased baking dish and spread it evenly.
5. Bake
Bake in a preheated oven until the pasta is hot and bubbly and the top is lightly golden. Allow it to cool for a few minutes before serving.
Serving Suggestions
Garnish the baked pasta with fresh parsley or basil and a sprinkle of dairy-free Parmesan. Serve it alongside a simple green salad, roasted vegetables, or crusty bread for a complete meal.
Easy Recipe Tips
- Cook the pasta just until al dente so it doesn’t become too soft while baking.
- Slice the zucchini and squash evenly so they cook at the same rate.
- Add a splash of plant-based milk if the sauce becomes too thick.
- For extra flavor, add red pepper flakes or your favorite fresh herbs.
- You can prepare the pasta ahead of time and bake it when you’re ready to serve.
A Simple, Comforting Meal
Creamy Baked Pasta with Zucchini and Squash is a delicious combination of comfort and freshness. The creamy sauce brings everything together, while the zucchini and squash add color, texture, and nutrients. Whether you’re looking for an easy weeknight dinner or a satisfying plant-based meal, this recipe is a simple addition to your regular rotation.