Cheesy Vegetable Pasta
A comforting and cheesy vegetable pasta dish featuring tender zucchini, flavorful mushroom and green pepper spaghetti sauce, and melty mozzarella and Parmesan cheeses. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a family meal that combines fresh vegetables with rich, cheesy goodness.
Ingredients
Instructions
- In a 10-inch skillet over medium heat, heat the vegetable oil.
- Add sliced zucchini and minced garlic to the skillet and cook until tender-crisp.
- Stir in the Prego Extra Chunky mushroom and green pepper spaghetti sauce and cook for a few minutes to heat through.
- Add the cooked and drained corkscrew pasta to the skillet and toss to combine.
- Sprinkle grated Parmesan cheese and shredded mozzarella cheese over the pasta.
- Cook until the cheeses are melted and bubbly, about 2-3 minutes.
- Serve hot and enjoy!
Tips & Substitutions
For added flavor, consider sautéing some onions or bell peppers along with the zucchini and garlic. You can substitute the corkscrew pasta with any pasta shape you prefer, such as Little Hats Cavandele. If you're looking for a lighter version, use whole grain or gluten-free pasta. Experiment with different vegetables like spinach or bell peppers to enhance the dish.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this Cheesy Vegetable Pasta with a side salad or garlic bread for a complete meal. A sprinkle of fresh basil or parsley on top can enhance the presentation and flavor. For a heartier meal, pair it with Italian recipes like Manicotti With Cheese Filling or a light Italian Tomato Dip as an appetizer.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of water or sauce to prevent sticking. You can also microwave in short intervals, stirring occasionally until heated through.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Cheesy Vegetable Pasta contains roughly 608 calories, with 23g protein, 32g carbohydrates, and 44g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin A (66% of the Daily Value), protein (46% of the Daily Value), and calcium (38% of the Daily Value), and a good source of iron and vitamin C. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 987mg per serving (43% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the pasta and sauce in advance. Store them separately in the refrigerator. When ready to serve, combine and heat together until the cheese is melted. This makes for a quick weeknight dinner option.
What can I use instead of Prego sauce?
You can substitute the Prego Extra Chunky sauce with any favorite marinara or tomato sauce. For a homemade version, simmer crushed tomatoes with Italian herbs, garlic, and onions for a delicious alternative.
Is this recipe suitable for vegetarians?
Absolutely! This Cheesy Vegetable Pasta is a vegetarian dish, packed with veggies and cheesy goodness. It's perfect for anyone following vegetarian recipes or looking for a meatless meal option.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).