Go Back
Savory Balsamic Bliss Pasta Bake is a culinary masterpiece that artfully marries the comforting texture of pasta with a medley of fresh vegetables and a tangy balsamic dressing. This dish stands out not only for its rich flavors but also for its vibrant presentation, making it a delightful option for both casual weeknight dinners and elegant gatherings. Whether you're looking to whip up a quick meal after a long day or seeking to impress guests with your culinary skills, this pasta bake is the perfect solution.

Easy Balsamic Vinaigrette Pasta Bake

Indulge in the deliciousness of Savory Balsamic Bliss Pasta Bake, a perfect blend of pasta, fresh vegetables, and tangy balsamic dressing. This dish is ideal for weeknight dinners or special gatherings, offering vibrant flavors and a stunning presentation. Customize it with your favorite veggies or proteins, like chicken or chickpeas, for a nutritious twist. Dive into a detailed recipe that guides you through each step, ensuring a mouthwatering creation every time. Enjoy a hearty meal that's both comforting and impressive!
Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Ingredients
  

12 oz penne pasta

1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved

1 medium zucchini, diced

1 bell pepper (any color), diced

1 cup fresh spinach, roughly chopped

1 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded

1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese

1 cup cooked chicken, diced (optional for added protein)

1/4 cup balsamic vinaigrette

2 cloves garlic, minced

1 tsp Italian seasoning

Salt and pepper to taste

Fresh basil leaves, for garnish

Instructions
 

Preheat the Oven: Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C), ensuring it's ready for your delicious pasta bake.

    Cook the Pasta: In a large pot, bring salted water to a rolling boil. Add the penne pasta and cook according to package directions until it reaches an al dente texture. Once cooked, drain the pasta and set it aside.

      Sauté the Vegetables: Heat a generous drizzle of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until it's fragrant. Next, introduce the diced zucchini and bell pepper to the skillet, cooking them for approximately 5 minutes until they start to soften. Then, add the halved cherry tomatoes and fresh spinach, and continue cooking for an additional 2-3 minutes until the spinach wilts. Season the mixture with Italian seasoning, and adjust salt and pepper to your taste.

        Combine Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked pasta, sautéed vegetable mixture, optional cooked chicken, half of the shredded mozzarella cheese, and the balsamic vinaigrette. Gently stir everything together until well coated and evenly distributed.

          Prepare the Baking Dish: Lightly grease a 9x13-inch baking dish with cooking spray or a small amount of olive oil. Transfer the pasta mixture to the dish, spreading it evenly to ensure even baking.

            Top with Cheese: Sprinkle the remaining mozzarella cheese and grated Parmesan evenly over the top of the pasta mixture, creating a cheesy layer that will melt beautifully during baking.

              Bake to Perfection: Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and place it in the preheated oven. Bake for 20 minutes, then remove the foil and continue baking for another 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown.

                Garnish and Serve: After baking, let the dish cool for about 5 minutes to set. Just before serving, garnish with fresh basil leaves for a burst of color and flavor. Enjoy your Savory Balsamic Bliss Pasta Bake warm and delightful!

                  Prep Time, Total Time, Servings: 15 min | 50 min | 6 servings