How to Cook Eggplant Pasta Bake (Step-by-Step)

Updated
2 min read

Eggplant pasta bake –One of my all-time favorite dishes to whip up is a comforting Eggplant Pasta Bake with Tomato and Zucchini. This recipe is perfect for those cozy evenings when all you want is a delicious, hearty meal. Packed with flavor and loaded with vegetables, it’s an excellent way to use up any extra zucchini or eggplant you might have on hand. Below, I’ll guide you through the recipe, step by step, so you can enjoy this delightful dish at home.

Eggplant Pasta Bake With Tomato & Zucchini

Let’s take a look at this beautiful dish. It’s not only colorful but also quite wholesome. Here’s a peek at what you’ll be creating:

Eggplant Pasta Bake With Tomato & Zucchini

Ingredients

For this delicious Eggplant Pasta Bake, you will need the following ingredients:

  • 2 medium eggplants, diced
  • 2 medium zucchinis, diced
  • 2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved
  • 3 cups cooked pasta (penne or rotini works well)
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 cup marinara sauce
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
  • 1 teaspoon dried basil
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
  • Fresh basil for garnish (optional)

Instructions

Here’s how to assemble and bake this delicious pasta dish:

  1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
  2. In a large skillet over medium heat, add a drizzle of olive oil and sauté the minced garlic until fragrant.
  3. Add the diced eggplant and zucchini to the skillet. Sauté for about 5-7 minutes until the vegetables begin to soften.
  4. Stir in the cherry tomatoes, marinara sauce, oregano, basil, and season with salt and pepper. Cook for another 5 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.
  5. In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked pasta with the vegetable sauce mixture. Stir until well combined.
  6. Transfer the mixture into a greased baking dish. Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella evenly over the top.
  7. Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown.
  8. Once out of the oven, let it cool slightly. Garnish with fresh basil if desired.

And there you have it! A warm, scrumptious Eggplant Pasta Bake with Tomato and Zucchini that is sure to please. Enjoy every bite of this delightful dish, packed with nutrients and bursting with flavor.