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To truly appreciate the Cheesy Balsamic Casserole, it’s important to delve into its key ingredients. Each component plays a vital role in creating the dish’s signature taste and texture.

Cheesy Balsamic Casserole

Discover the warmth and comfort of homemade casseroles with the Cheesy Balsamic Casserole, a delightful blend of hearty vegetables, pasta, and a rich balsamic reduction topped with gooey cheese. This versatile dish not only offers convenience as a one-dish meal but also allows for creative customization to fit dietary needs. Perfect for family dinners, it’s packed with nutrients and is sure to become a favorite at your table. Enjoy layers of deliciousness that nourish both body and spirit!
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Ingredients
  

2 cups cooked pasta (penne or rotini work best)

1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese

1 cup grated Parmesan cheese

1 medium eggplant, diced

1 red bell pepper, diced

1 zucchini, diced

1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved

3 cloves garlic, minced

1 cup balsamic vinegar

2 tablespoons olive oil

1 teaspoon dried oregano

1 teaspoon dried basil

Salt and pepper to taste

Fresh basil leaves for garnish

Instructions
 

Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).

    Sauté the Vegetables: In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced eggplant and sauté for about 5 minutes until it starts to soften. Add the bell pepper, zucchini, garlic, and cherry tomatoes. Cook for an additional 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until all the vegetables are tender. Season with salt, pepper, oregano, and basil.

      Prepare the Balsamic Reduction: In a small saucepan, bring the balsamic vinegar to a gentle simmer over medium heat. Reduce until it thickens slightly, about 5-7 minutes. Remove from heat and set aside.

        Combine Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked pasta, sautéed vegetables, and half of the mozzarella and Parmesan cheeses. Drizzle half of the balsamic reduction over the mixture and toss everything together until well combined.

          Assemble the Casserole: Transfer the pasta mixture to a greased 9x13-inch casserole dish. Pour the remaining balsamic reduction over the top and sprinkle the remaining mozzarella and Parmesan cheeses evenly over the casserole.

            Bake: Cover the casserole with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 25 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 15 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden.

              Garnish and Serve: Once out of the oven, let the casserole sit for about 5 minutes. Garnish with fresh basil leaves before serving.

                Prep Time, Total Time, Servings: 15 minutes | 50 minutes | 6 servings