Cheesy Veggie Baked Pasta – Ultimate Comfort Food for All Ages

Meta Description: This cheesy baked pasta with mixed vegetables is the ultimate comfort food. Easy to prepare, loaded with flavor, and perfect for kids and adults alike.

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📝 Introduction

Looking for a cozy, satisfying, and crowd-pleasing dish that works for family dinners, potlucks, or even meal prep? This Cheesy Veggie Baked Pasta has it all – gooey cheese, tender pasta, and a medley of colorful vegetables baked to perfection.

Whether you’re a cheese lover, a vegetarian, or just someone who loves comfort food, this dish is a must-try.

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🛒 Ingredients

For the Pasta:

• 2 cups pasta (penne, fusilli, or macaroni)

• Salted water (for boiling)

For the Veggie Mix:

• 2 tbsp olive oil

• 1 onion, chopped

• 1 bell pepper, diced

• 1 carrot, grated

• 1/2 cup sweet corn

• 1/2 cup green peas

• 2–3 garlic cloves, minced

• 1 tsp mixed herbs (oregano, thyme, basil)

• Salt and pepper to taste

For the White Sauce:

• 2 tbsp butter

• 2 tbsp maida (all-purpose flour)

• 1.5 cups milk

• 1/2 tsp black pepper

• Salt to taste

• 1/2 cup grated cheese (cheddar or mozzarella)

For Baking:

• 1/2 cup grated mozzarella or pizza cheese

• 1 tsp chili flakes (optional)

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👩‍🍳 Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Boil the Pasta

1. Boil pasta in salted water until al dente.

2. Drain, rinse with cold water, and set aside.

Step 2: Cook the Veggies

1. In a pan, heat oil and sauté garlic and onion.

2. Add carrot, capsicum, peas, corn, and cook for 5–6 minutes.

3. Season with herbs, salt, and pepper.

Step 3: Make the White Sauce

1. In another pan, melt butter.

2. Add flour and stir for 1 minute (don’t let it brown).

3. Slowly add milk, whisking to avoid lumps.

4. Cook until thick, then stir in cheese, salt, and pepper.

Step 4: Combine Everything

1. Mix pasta, veggies, and white sauce in a large bowl.

2. Transfer to a greased baking dish.

3. Top with mozzarella and chili flakes.

Step 5: Bake

1. Preheat oven to 180°C (350°F).

2. Bake for 15–20 minutes or until cheese is melted and bubbly.

3. Let it cool for 5 minutes before serving.

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🌟 Tips & Variations

• Add mushrooms, broccoli, or baby spinach for more nutrition.

• Make it spicy by adding red chili sauce or paprika.

• Use whole wheat pasta or gluten-free pasta if preferred.

• You can use tomato-based red sauce instead of white sauce.

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❓ FAQs

Q: Can I make this ahead of time?

A: Yes! Assemble and refrigerate. Bake just before serving.

Q: Can I skip baking?

A: Yes, just heat everything together and serve hot with cheese mixed in.

Q: Can I add protein?

A: Yes, add paneer cubes, tofu, or even cooked beans.