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Welcome to the ultimate family-friendly meal that even the pickiest eaters won't be able to resist! This Cheesy Casserole with Hidden Veggies is a fantastic way to sneak in some nutritious goodness while satisfying your family's cravings for a hearty, comforting dish. With a melty, cheesy layer that envelops a medley of colorful vegetables, this casserole is not only delicious but also a great way to encourage your little ones to embrace their greens.

Family-Friendly Cheesy Casserole with Hidden Veggies

Discover the ultimate Family-Friendly Cheesy Casserole with Hidden Veggies that your kids will love! This easy recipe combines cooked pasta, a creamy cheese blend, and a colorful medley of sneaky veggies like spinach and zucchini, making it both nutritious and delicious. Perfect for busy weeknights or weekend gatherings, this customizable dish ensures everyone enjoys their greens. Bake it for a comforting meal everyone will rave about!
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Ingredients
  

2 cups of cooked pasta (penne or rotini are ideal)

1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese

1 cup of shredded mozzarella cheese

1 cup of ricotta cheese

1 cup of marinara sauce (either store-bought or homemade)

1 cup of finely chopped spinach (either fresh or frozen)

1 cup of finely chopped zucchini

1 small onion, chopped

2 cloves of garlic, minced

1/2 teaspoon of dried oregano

1/2 teaspoon of dried basil

Salt and pepper to taste

1/2 cup of breadcrumbs (optional for topping)

2 tablespoons of olive oil

Instructions
 

Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C).

    Heat the olive oil in a spacious skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic, cooking until they become tender and aromatic (approximately 3-4 minutes).

      Incorporate the chopped zucchini and spinach. Continue cooking for an additional 3-5 minutes, allowing the vegetables to soften. Season with oregano, basil, salt, and pepper.

        In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked pasta, sautéed vegetables, ricotta cheese, 1/2 cup of the cheddar cheese, marinara sauce, and half of the mozzarella cheese. Stir everything until fully incorporated.

          Spoon the pasta and vegetable blend into a greased 9x13 inch baking dish. Evenly distribute the mixture.

            Top the mixture with the remaining mozzarella cheese and cheddar cheese. For an added crunch, you can also sprinkle breadcrumbs over the cheese layer if desired.

              Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil (to avoid burning) and place it in the preheated oven to bake for 20 minutes.

                Afterward, remove the foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese has melted and turned a golden brown color.

                  Once removed from the oven, allow it to sit for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy this delightful dish with your family!

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