Go Back
Preheating your oven is a crucial step in ensuring that your Zesty Zucchini Feta Pasta Bake cooks evenly and thoroughly. The ideal baking temperature for this dish is 375°F (190°C). Preheating ensures that your pasta bake starts cooking the moment it enters the oven, allowing for proper caramelization of the vegetables and optimal melting of the cheese. An oven that isn’t preheated can lead to uneven cooking, where some parts may be overcooked while others remain undercooked. Always take the time to preheat your oven to guarantee the best results for your bake.

Zucchini Feta Pasta Bake

Discover the perfect comfort food with the Zesty Zucchini Feta Pasta Bake, a delightful combination of pasta, fresh zucchini, and savory feta cheese. This easy-to-make dish balances rich flavors and appealing textures, making it ideal for family dinners or meal prep. Enjoy a hearty meal full of nutritious ingredients like zucchini and tomatoes, all topped with melted cheese. Transform your dinner table with this vibrant and satisfying recipe that everyone will love.
Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Ingredients
  

12 oz (340g) pasta (penne or rigatoni)

2 medium zucchinis, thinly sliced

2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved

1 cup crumbled feta cheese

1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese

3 cloves garlic, minced

1 teaspoon dried oregano

1 teaspoon dried basil

½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)

2 tablespoons olive oil

½ teaspoon salt

¼ teaspoon black pepper

Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions
 

Preheat the oven: Begin by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C).

    Cook the pasta: In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil and add the pasta. Cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain the pasta and set aside.

      Sauté the zucchini: In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the sliced zucchinis and sauté for about 5-7 minutes until they are tender and start to caramelize. Add the minced garlic, dried oregano, dried basil, red pepper flakes, salt, and black pepper. Sauté for an additional 1-2 minutes until fragrant.

        Combine the ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked pasta, sautéed zucchini mixture, halved cherry tomatoes, crumbled feta, and half of the shredded mozzarella. Toss everything together until well combined.

          Transfer to a baking dish: Spoon the pasta mixture into a greased 9x13 inch (23x33 cm) baking dish. Spread it out evenly.

            Top with cheese: Sprinkle the remaining shredded mozzarella evenly over the top of the pasta bake.

              Bake: Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown.

                Garnish and serve: Once cooked, remove from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley before serving.

                  Enjoy this delightful Zucchini Feta Pasta Bake, which is both satisfying and packed with flavor!

                    Prep Time: 15 minutes | Total Time: 50 minutes | Servings: 6