Sunday Creamy Tomato Vegetable Bake

Name: Sunday Creamy Tomato Vegetable Bake
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 45 min
Total time: 1 h
Yield: 6 servings
Ingredients: 4 cups mixed seasonal vegetables (zucchini, bell peppers, etc.); 1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes; 1 cup ricotta cheese; 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese; 1 teaspoon dried oregano; 1 teaspoon salt; 1 teaspoon black pepper; 1 tablespoon olive oil; 2 cloves garlic, minced

Highlighted under: Baking & Desserts

I love making this Sunday Creamy Tomato Vegetable Bake as a comforting and vibrant dish to share with family and friends. The rich tomato sauce is perfectly balanced with creamy layers of cheese and an array of colorful vegetables that not only look appealing but taste incredible. It's become a staple for our Sunday dinners, especially because it’s simple to prepare and can be thrown together quickly, making our weekends even more enjoyable. If you're looking for a satisfying meal that brings everyone together, this bake is a must-try!

Created by

Chelsea Payne

Last updated on 2026-01-14T01:40:12.983Z

When I first made this bake, I wanted something that highlighted the freshness of seasonal vegetables while complementing them with a zesty tomato sauce. I blended roasted garlic with creamy ricotta to spread between layers, which turned out to be a game-changer! The creamy texture elevates the dish and ensures each bite is rich and satisfying.

Experimenting with the vegetable selection has been a delightful journey—I've tried adding zucchini, bell peppers, and even spinach, and they all enhance the flavor profile beautifully. I recommend roasting the vegetables first to bring out their natural sweetness, which pairs wonderfully with the tangy tomatoes.

        You Will Love This Recipe Because
        Rich and creamy texture that comforts the soul
Bursting with fresh seasonal vegetables
Hearty dish perfect for sharing on a Sunday

      

Understanding the Ingredients

The selection of mixed seasonal vegetables plays a vital role in the flavor and texture of this bake. While zucchini and bell peppers are great choices for their sweetness and moisture content, you can also incorporate vegetables like eggplant or cherry tomatoes for added depth. Each vegetable adds its own character, so feel free to customize according to your preferences or what's available in your kitchen.

Ricotta cheese serves as the creamy backbone of this dish. Its rich texture not only enhances the mouthfeel but also keeps the bake moist. If you're looking for a lighter option, consider using low-fat ricotta or even pureed cottage cheese as a substitute. However, keep in mind that this may slightly change the flavor profile, so taste and adjust seasoning accordingly.

Layering for Success

When assembling the bake, the order of your layers is key. Start with a generous amount of the tomato mixture on the bottom. This not only prevents sticking but also creates a succulent base for your vegetables. Ensure that each layer is even; uneven layers can lead to a bake that doesn’t cook through properly, resulting in raw or overly soft vegetables.

Dolloping ricotta between layers not only adds pops of creaminess but also provides moisture that infuses the surrounding vegetables and cheese. For an even more decadent dish, consider mixing in herbs like basil or thyme into the ricotta for additional flavor. Just remember to keep the layers cohesive—too much ricotta could overwhelm the dish.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients to create a delightful Sunday dish:

For the Bake

4 cups mixed seasonal vegetables (zucchini, bell peppers, etc.)
1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes
1 cup ricotta cheese
2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
1 teaspoon dried oregano
1 teaspoon salt
1 teaspoon black pepper
1 tablespoon olive oil
2 cloves garlic, minced

Make sure to have these ingredients fresh for the best flavor!

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to create a delicious vegetable bake:

Prepare the Vegetables

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Chop your mixed vegetables and spread them on a baking sheet. Drizzle with olive oil, add minced garlic, sprinkle with salt and pepper, and roast for 20 minutes until they are tender.

Mix the Tomato Base

In a large bowl, combine the crushed tomatoes with dried oregano, salt, and pepper. This base is crucial for a flavorful sauce to tie the dish together.

Assemble the Bake

In a baking dish, spread a layer of the tomato mixture, followed by half of the roasted vegetables. Add dollops of ricotta cheese and a layer of mozzarella. Repeat the layers until all ingredients are used, finishing with mozzarella on top.

Bake and Serve

Cover the dish with foil and bake for 25 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 15 minutes until the cheese is bubbly and golden. Let it cool slightly before serving.

Enjoy your bake with fresh bread or a light salad on the side!

Pro Tips

For an extra kick, consider adding red pepper flakes to the tomato mixture. This recipe is also easily adaptable
feel free to substitute any vegetables you have on hand.

Make-Ahead and Storage

This creamy tomato vegetable bake can be prepared ahead of time, making it an ideal dish for busy weekends. After assembling, cover the dish tightly with foil and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. When you're ready to bake, simply adjust the cooking time by adding an extra 10-15 minutes, as it will start off cold. This not only saves time but also allows the flavors to meld beautifully.

If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat individual portions in the microwave or gently in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through. For those looking to stash it in the freezer, portion it out and wrap tightly. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Serving Suggestions

This bake is truly versatile when it comes to serving. Pair it with a crisp green salad drizzled with balsamic vinaigrette to balance the creaminess. A warm, crusty loaf of garlic bread is perfect for soaking up the luscious sauce. For a festive touch, sprinkle some fresh basil or parsley on top just before serving to enhance both the visual appeal and flavor.

If you're aiming for a heartier meal, serve this dish alongside protein options like grilled chicken or even chickpeas for a vegetarian protein punch. The vibrant colors and rustic nature of this bake make it a wonderful centerpiece for any Sunday gathering, inviting everyone to dig in and share.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes! You can assemble the bake and store it in the fridge for up to 24 hours before baking.

→ What can I serve with this dish?

It pairs beautifully with a simple salad or crusty bread.

→ Can I freeze leftovers?

Absolutely! Leftovers can be frozen for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

→ Is it possible to make this vegetarian?

Yes! This recipe is already vegetarian-friendly and can even be made vegan by using dairy-free cheese.