Every once in a while, we like to go all out, taking our time to prepare a fancy meal and maybe even an app or dessert too. But most nights? It’s all about convenience, and if it can be done in less than 20 minutes, we’re all for it. That’s why we’ve found easy veggie bakes (a.k.a. glorified casserole recipes) that are good for you and take just a few minutes to prep. After that, let the oven do the work while you kick back, relax, and watch your favorite shows.
1. Tomato Eggplant Zucchini Bake
Think of this as a way-lighter eggplant Parm. You won’t miss the breading or mounds of mozzarella when you’ve got tons of veggies, garlic, basil, and just the right amount of cheese.
2. Summer Vegetable Tian
Summer is the time for zucchini, squash, and tomatoes, and this vegetable tian makes the most of it, adding in potatoes and onion for good measure. With just a few ingredients—garlic, olive oil, parsley, thyme, and some cheese, to be exact—the fresh veggies shine in this simple dish.
3. Quinoa Enchilada Casserole
This vegetarian-friendly casserole is guaranteed to be a household favorite. How could it not with its Tex-Mex blend of corn, black beans, avo, tomato, and cheese?
4. Jalapeño Shrimp Veggie Bake
Squash, tomatoes, and shrimp form the base of this spicy dinner, which bakes in a creamy sauce you can easily make dairy-free (the recipe gives ingredients for both).
5. Italian-Style Spaghetti Squash Bake
This spaghetti squash bake is a game-changer. The veggie noodles taste like a lighter lasagna when mixed in with spices, cheese, chicken, garlic, and tomato sauce.
6. Mushroom and Cauliflower Penne Bake
Who’s got the time to slave over a stove stirring the pot? This pasta bake avoids that headache altogether and is filled with a healthy mix of veggies, healthy grains (from the whole-wheat pasta), and just enough gooey cheese to make it feel indulgent.
7. Sausage and Garlic Parmesan Veggie Bake
One-pan meals are a lifesaver for pretty much everyone. Cut up some veggies and sausage, drizzle ’em with olive oil, and bake. After, sprinkle with Parmesan, and you’ve got dinner on the table with hardly any effort at all.
