Herbed Veggie Pasta Rice Bake

Name: Herbed Veggie Pasta Rice Bake
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 50 min
Yield: 6 servings
Ingredients: 2 cups cooked pasta (of your choice); 2 cups cooked rice; 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved; 1 bell pepper, diced; 1 zucchini, diced; 1 cup spinach, chopped; 1 cup grated cheese (mozzarella or cheddar); 1/4 cup chopped fresh basil; 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1/2 teaspoon salt; 1/4 teaspoon pepper; 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes; 1/2 cup breadcrumbs

Highlighted under: Cozy Collection

I love experimenting with flavors and textures in my dishes, and this Herbed Veggie Pasta Rice Bake is a delightful example of that. Combining pasta, rice, and an array of colorful vegetables, it's not just visually appealing but also comforting and satisfying. The fresh herbs elevate the entire dish, and I find myself making this recipe time and again for family gatherings and cozy nights at home. It comes together quickly and offers a perfect balance of flavors that everyone enjoys.

Created by

Elodie March

Last updated on 2026-01-21T18:46:36.375Z

When I first created this Herbed Veggie Pasta Rice Bake, I wanted to share a dish that is both hearty and light. The interplay of the pasta and rice with seasonal veggies provides a fulfilling and comforting experience. One of my favorite tips is to use fresh herbs; they really bring the dish to life and make a significant difference in flavor!

This recipe has become a staple in my home, especially during busy weeks. I love that it can be prepped in advance and reheats perfectly, making it ideal for meal prep. It's also a great way to use up any leftover vegetables I have on hand!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Bursting with fresh herbs that brighten every bite
Comforting mix of pasta and rice with a crunchy topping
Versatile: customize with your favorite vegetables

Getting the Right Texture

Achieving the perfect texture in the Herbed Veggie Pasta Rice Bake is essential for enjoying its comforting qualities. To do this, ensure both your pasta and rice are cooked al dente before mixing them with the vegetables. Overcooked pasta can lead to a mushy bake, which detracts from the intended layered experience. You want a sturdy structure that holds well upon serving, so a slightly firmer cook is ideal.

The breadcrumbs on top serve not only as a crunchy contrast but also enhance the dish's overall mouthfeel. When selecting breadcrumbs, consider panko for a lighter texture or traditional Italian-style for more flavor. Toasting them lightly in a pan before sprinkling them on top can add an extra layer of crunch. This small step elevates the presentation, giving it a golden-brown, appetizing finish.

Ingredient Versatility

One of the best aspects of this recipe is its versatility in ingredients. While I love the combination of cherry tomatoes, bell pepper, and zucchini, you can replace these with whatever vegetables you have on hand. For instance, roasted eggplant or sautéed mushrooms can add a deeper flavor profile. If you prefer a different herb blend, try adding thyme or oregano for a Mediterranean twist.

For a protein boost, consider incorporating cooked beans, lentils, or shredded chicken into the mix. If you're vegan or on a dairy-free diet, you can substitute the cheese with nutritional yeast or a plant-based cheese version. Adjusting the recipe according to dietary needs ensures that everyone at your table can enjoy this comforting bake.

Storage and Reheating Tips

This Herbed Veggie Pasta Rice Bake is perfect for make-ahead meals and works wonderfully as leftovers. If you plan to prepare it in advance, assemble the bake but hold off on adding the breadcrumbs until you're ready to bake. This way, you’ll keep the topping crunchy and fresh. You can store the assembled dish in the fridge for up to 24 hours, making it a convenient option for busy weeknights.

For leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. When reheating, simply place it in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes, or until it's heated through. If you want to refresh the top layer, consider adding a sprinkle of fresh breadcrumbs before reheating for added crunch.

Ingredients

For the Bake

2 cups cooked pasta (of your choice)
2 cups cooked rice
1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
1 bell pepper, diced
1 zucchini, diced
1 cup spinach, chopped
1 cup grated cheese (mozzarella or cheddar)
1/4 cup chopped fresh basil
1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
2 cloves garlic, minced
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon pepper
1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes
1/2 cup breadcrumbs

Cooking Instructions

Steps

Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) to prepare for baking.

Combine Ingredients

In a large bowl, mix together cooked pasta, rice, cherry tomatoes, bell pepper, zucchini, spinach, half of the cheese, fresh herbs, garlic, salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes until well combined.

Transfer to Baking Dish

Pour the mixture into a greased baking dish and spread it out evenly. Top with remaining cheese and breadcrumbs.

Bake

Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the top is golden and bubbly.

Serve

Let it cool for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy your delicious Herbed Veggie Pasta Rice Bake!

Pro Tips

Feel free to experiment with different vegetables and grains to make this dish your own. Leftover roasted vegetables can also be a great addition!

Serving Suggestions

Pair this hearty bake with a crisp side salad or some garlic bread for a complete meal experience. A light vinaigrette can cut through the richness of the cheese and offer a refreshing balance. If you're feeling adventurous, drizzle a bit of balsamic reduction over the bake before serving to add a touch of sweetness and acidity.

For gatherings, consider serving this dish in individual portions, using ramekins. This presentation not only makes it more appealing but also allows guests to enjoy a perfect serving of the bake, ensuring no one misses out on the crunchy topping.

Adjusting for Dietary Needs

Whether you're cooking for a gluten-free diet or need to accommodate nut allergies, this recipe allows for easy adjustments. To make it gluten-free, use gluten-free pasta and breadcrumbs. There are many varieties available that replicate the original texture and flavor closely, ensuring you maintain the integrity of the dish.

For those avoiding dairy, you can omit the cheese entirely and boost flavor with additional herbs and spices. A splash of lemon juice can brighten the dish and compensate for the creaminess lost from not using cheese, all while keeping it delicious and satisfying.

Scaling the Recipe

If you're cooking for a larger crowd, this recipe scales beautifully. Simply double or triple the ingredients, ensuring you choose a sufficiently large baking dish to accommodate the increased volume. Just be mindful of extending the baking time by about 5-10 minutes as a larger portion may take a bit longer to heat through.

When scaling up, it's helpful to mix the ingredients in batches to ensure even distribution of flavors and textures. This way, every bite will contain a delicious balance of herbs, veggies, and that all-important crunchy topping.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare it a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator before baking.

→ How can I make this recipe vegan?

Use plant-based cheese and omit the cheese or substitute with nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor.

→ What can I serve with this bake?

It's great on its own, but pairs well with a simple green salad or garlic bread.

→ Can I freeze leftovers?

Yes, you can freeze the leftovers! Just make sure to store them in an airtight container.