Baked Mediterranean Pasta
Baked Mediterranean Pasta is a vibrant, flavorful, and easy-to-make dish featuring a combination of pasta, fresh vegetables, chickpeas, and melted cheese. This Mediterranean-inspired casserole is perfect for family dinners or entertaining guests, offering a wholesome meal packed with nutrients. With simple ingredients like mozzarella, feta, and marinara sauce, it’s a dish that delivers on taste, comfort, and health. Customize with your favorite veggies and protein for an even more personalized twist.
- Prep Time: 20-25 minutes
- Cook Time: 30-35 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Main Course, Pasta Bake
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Mediterranean
- Diet: Vegetarian
Ingredients
12 oz penne pasta
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 medium onion, diced
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 red bell pepper, chopped
1 zucchini, sliced
1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
1 can (15 oz) chickpeas, drained and rinsed
1 teaspoon dried oregano
1 teaspoon dried basil
½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
Salt and black pepper, to taste
2 cups marinara sauce
1½ cups mozzarella cheese, shredded
½ cup feta cheese, crumbled
Fresh basil, for garnish (optional)
Instructions
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Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
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Cook the penne pasta in a large pot of salted water until al dente, about 8-10 minutes. Drain and set aside.
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In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and garlic and sauté until fragrant.
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Stir in the red bell pepper and zucchini and cook for about 5 minutes, until softened.
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Add the cherry tomatoes and chickpeas, followed by oregano, basil, red pepper flakes, salt, and pepper.
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Mix in the cooked pasta and marinara sauce. Stir to combine.
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Transfer the mixture into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish.
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Sprinkle mozzarella and feta cheese evenly over the top.
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Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the cheese is golden and bubbly.
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Garnish with fresh basil, if desired, and serve.
Notes
You can make this dish ahead of time and refrigerate it before baking. Just pop it in the oven when ready to serve.
For a spicier version, increase the red pepper flakes or add a drizzle of hot sauce.
This recipe can be easily adjusted for dietary preferences, including gluten-free or vegan options.
Find it online: https://chocolatecoveredamy.com/baked-mediterranean-pasta/
