Print
clock clock iconcutlery cutlery iconflag flag iconfolder folder iconinstagram instagram iconpinterest pinterest iconfacebook facebook iconprint print iconsquares squares iconheart heart iconheart solid heart solid icon
A vibrant pasta bake in a white ceramic dish featuring colorful layers of spiral pasta, seasoned vegetables, and melted cheese, topped with sliced green onions and cherry tomatoes, garnished with fresh cilantro. The dish is set on a rustic wooden table with a side of fresh salad and a fork beside it.

Healthy & Easy Vegetarian Taco Pasta Bake

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

No reviews

Discover the delicious and nutritious recipe for Healthy & Easy Vegetarian Taco Pasta Bake, a flavorful baked pasta dish packed with fresh vegetables, beans, and cheesy goodness. Perfect for quick weeknight dinners and vegetarian meal options, this hearty taco pasta bake combines the zest of tacos with comforting pasta for a wholesome meal everyone will love.

  • Total Time: 35 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings 1x

Ingredients

Scale
  • 8 oz (about 2 cups) of your favorite pasta (penne, fusilli, or rotini work well)
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 bell pepper, diced
  • 1 small onion, chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
  • 1 cup corn kernels (fresh or frozen)
  • 1 cup diced tomatoes or tomato sauce
  • 1 packet taco seasoning (or homemade spice mix)
  • 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar, Mexican blend, or vegan cheese)
  • Fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)
  • Optional: sliced jalapeños, sour cream, or avocado for toppings

Instructions

  1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the pasta until al dente according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
  2. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil. Add the chopped onion and diced bell pepper, sautéing until tender. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute.
  3. Add the black beans, corn, diced tomatoes, and taco seasoning to the sautéed vegetables. Stir well and cook for a few minutes until heated through.
  4. Mix the cooked pasta into the vegetable and bean mixture. Stir until evenly coated.
  5. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Transfer the pasta mixture into a greased baking dish. Sprinkle shredded cheese evenly over the top. Bake uncovered for 15-20 minutes or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
  6. Remove from oven and garnish with chopped cilantro. Serve with toppings like sliced jalapeños, sour cream, or avocado as desired.

Notes

  • Feel free to swap out vegetables like zucchini or mushrooms based on your preference.
  • Use whole wheat or gluten-free pasta to make it healthier.
  • Experiment with different cheese blends or vegan cheese for dairy-free options.
  • Add cooked lentils or tofu for extra plant-based protein.
  • Author: Serena Miller
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 20 minutes
  • Category: Main Course
  • Method: Baking,Sauteing
  • Cuisine: Mexican-inspired,Vegetarian
  • Diet: Vegetarian,Healthy

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 bowl
  • Calories: 400 kcal Kcal
  • Sugar: 8 g
  • Sodium: 800 mg
  • Fat: 15 g
  • Saturated Fat: 6 g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 8 g
  • Trans Fat: 0 g
  • Carbohydrates: 60 g
  • Fiber: 10 g
  • Protein: 18 g
  • Cholesterol: 30 mg