As the sun sets on another warm summer day, the crisp scent of fresh zucchini and juicy cherry tomatoes fills the air, inviting you to create something special for dinner. I stumbled upon a delightful way to capture the vibrant flavors of the season in my kitchen—a Dump-and-Bake Summer Pasta with Chicken, Zucchini, and Corn. This dish is truly a lifesaver for those busy weeknights when the last thing you want to do is spend hours in the kitchen.
Imagine a creamy, cheesy pasta casserole bubbling in the oven, bursting with colorful produce and tender chicken. Each bite combines the richness of Alfredo sauce with the bright notes of basil and the sweetness of the corn, making it a family-favorite that’ll have everyone asking for seconds. The best part? It takes just minutes to prep and doesn’t require boiling pasta! With this easy summer pasta recipe, you can savor the taste of homemade goodness without the fuss. Ready to brighten up your dinner table? Let’s dive in!
Why will you love Summer Pasta?
Simplicity: This dump-and-bake recipe requires minimal effort, making dinner a breeze. Just toss everything in one dish!
Flavor Explosion: The combination of fresh zucchini, sweet cherry tomatoes, and chicken drenched in creamy Alfredo creates a satisfying meal.
Versatility: Customize your dish with seasonal veggies or different proteins like sausage or mushrooms for endless variations!
Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike will enjoy the delicious flavors, making it a surefire hit at any dinner table.
Time-Saving: With no boiling required, you’ll have a delightful meal ready in under an hour—perfect for those busy summer evenings!
Summer Pasta Ingredients
• Get ready to savor a delightful dish with this Dump-and-Bake Summer Pasta recipe!
For the Pasta Base
- Uncooked penne pasta – Provides the main carbohydrate; feel free to swap with any short pasta variety if desired.
- Cooked, shredded chicken – Adds protein and heartiness; store-bought rotisserie chicken is perfect for an easy meal.
- Cherry tomatoes – Contributes sweetness and juiciness; canned diced tomatoes work well if fresh ones aren’t available.
- Zucchini – Offers color and texture; substitute other summer veggies like yellow squash or bell peppers as you please.
- Corn kernels – Adds sweetness and crunch; you can use fresh, canned, or frozen corn.
For the Flavor Enhancers
- Fresh basil leaves – Brings aromatic freshness; substitute with parsley or another herb if basil is out of season.
- Chicken broth – Provides moisture and flavor; vegetable broth works just as well.
- Alfredo sauce – Adds creaminess and richness to the dish; use homemade or store-bought versions according to your preference.
- White wine – Enhances flavor depth; feel free to omit or substitute with extra broth if desired.
- Basil pesto – Contributes herby notes; replace with homemade pesto or omit for a lighter dish.
- Italian seasoning – A blend of herbs for added flavor; Italian spices or a mix of garlic and oregano can be alternatives.
- Crushed red pepper flakes – Adds heat; adjust to your taste or omit if you prefer a milder option.
For the Seasoning and Toppings
- Garlic powder and onion powder – Provide essential savory notes; you can also use fresh garlic or onion if available.
- Shredded Italian cheese blend or mozzarella – Completes the dish with creamy texture; feel free to use any melty cheese you like.
- Kosher salt and ground black pepper – Essential for seasoning; adjust according to your taste.
With these simple ingredients at the ready, you’re just a few steps away from a luscious dinner that encapsulates the essence of summer!
How to Make Summer Pasta
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Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C) and spray a 9×13-inch baking dish with nonstick cooking spray. This ensures your pasta won’t stick, making for an easy cleanup!
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Combine uncooked penne pasta, shredded chicken, cherry tomatoes, zucchini, corn, and fresh basil in the baking dish. Mix everything gently until well distributed, bringing that vibrant summer flavor together.
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Whisk together chicken broth, Alfredo sauce, white wine, basil pesto, and Italian seasoning in a mixing bowl. Combine until smooth; this will create a luscious sauce for your dish.
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Pour the sauce over the pasta mixture, ensuring everything is well coated. Stir to combine, then cover the dish tightly with foil and bake for 40 minutes. The pasta will absorb the flavors while cooking!
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Check doneness after 40 minutes by removing the foil and stirring gently. If the pasta isn’t al dente yet, cover and bake a bit longer. Keep an eye out—overcooking can make it mushy!
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Sprinkle shredded cheese on top and broil for 1-2 minutes, until the cheese is melted and golden brown. This step adds a delightful, cheesy crust to the dish.
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Season with salt and pepper to taste, garnish with additional herbs if desired, and serve hot. Enjoy the burst of fresh flavors in every bite!
Optional: Add a sprinkle of freshly grated Parmesan on top for an extra flavor boost.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Expert Tips for Summer Pasta
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Avoid Clumping: Ensure the uncooked pasta is well combined with the sauce before baking to prevent clumping and uneven cooking.
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Check Doneness: After the initial baking time, taste the pasta to see if it’s al dente. If not, cover and bake a bit longer instead of risking mushiness.
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Mind the Broiler: When broiling, stay close; the cheese can go from perfectly golden to burnt in seconds. It’s all about keeping a watchful eye!
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Adjust Liquid Levels: If you’re worried about excess liquid, consider reducing the chicken broth slightly. Too much can make the dish soupy rather than creamy.
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Experiment Freely: Don’t hesitate to use seasonal veggies or different proteins in your dump-and-bake summer pasta. This dish is versatile and perfect for your creative flair!
What to Serve with Dump-and-Bake Summer Pasta?
Enhance your dinner table experience with delightful pairings that complement this easy, vibrant dish.
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Garlic Bread: The warm, buttery garlic bread adds a crunchy texture that’s perfect for scooping up any leftover creamy sauce.
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Side Salad: A crisp mixed greens salad with a light vinaigrette will offer a fresh, balancing contrast to the creamy pasta. The lightness and acidity will refresh your palate.
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Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal roasted veggies, like asparagus or bell peppers, bring out the earthy flavors of summer and add a satisfying crunch to your meal.
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Grilled Corn on the Cob: Sweet, juicy corn enhances the dish’s flavors beautifully. Plus, enjoying it straight from the grill captures that delightful summer essence.
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Sparkling Lemonade: A refreshing beverage option, sparkling lemonade adds a zesty brightness that pairs wonderfully with the rich, creamy pasta.
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Fruit Salad: A light fruit salad featuring berries and melons provides a sweet finish to your meal, balancing the savory richness of the main dish.
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Frozen Yogurt: A scoop of creamy frozen yogurt topped with fresh fruit serves as a delightful dessert that rounds out this tasty summer dinner perfectly.
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Iced Tea: A glass of unsweetened iced tea or a fruity infusion can cleanse the palate, making it a lovely accompaniment to the meal.
Summer Pasta Variations
Feel free to explore these delicious twists on the classic summer pasta recipe that will inspire your culinary creativity!
- Gluten-Free: Substitute with gluten-free penne pasta; ensure to adjust cooking times as needed for optimal texture.
- Vegetarian Delight: Swap the chicken for sautéed mushrooms or zucchini for a hearty, meat-free option. This adds an earthy flavor and complements the vibrant vegetables.
- Extra Veggies: Toss in spinach, bell peppers, or peas alongside the main ingredients for a burst of color and nutrients. The more, the merrier!
- Zesty Italian: Add a splash of lemon juice or zest for a refreshing citrus kick that brightens up the entire dish. It’s like summer on a plate!
- Spicy Kick: Incorporate diced jalapeños or increase the crushed red pepper flakes for some fiery heat to wake up your taste buds, ideal for spice lovers.
- Creamy Twist: Substitute half of the Alfredo sauce with ricotta cheese to enhance creaminess while adding a touch of savory richness. Pair with fresh herbs to elevate flavors!
- Seafood Option: Try using shrimp or scallops in place of chicken for a delightful seafood pasta experience, providing a special touch that’s perfect for summer evenings.
- Herbal Infusion: Experiment with fresh herbs like thyme, oregano, or dill; these fragrant touches can elevate the aromatic experience of your summer dish.
Each of these variations allows you to personalize your summer pasta, making it a new delight at the dinner table every time!
Make Ahead Options
Busy weeknights call for convenient solutions, and this Dump-and-Bake Summer Pasta is perfect for meal prep! You can assemble the entire dish (without baking) and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours. Just combine your uncooked penne, shredded chicken, tomatoes, zucchini, corn, and basil in the baking dish, then whisk together the sauce ingredients and pour it over. To maintain quality, be sure to cover the dish tightly with foil. When you’re ready to serve, simply bake it as instructed, adding an extra 5-10 minutes to ensure the pasta cooks through. This way, you can enjoy a delicious homemade dinner with minimal last-minute effort!
How to Store and Freeze Summer Pasta
Refrigerator: Keep leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the microwave or on the stove, adding a splash of broth if needed to maintain creaminess.
Freezer: This summer pasta can be frozen for up to 2 months. Portion it into freezer-safe containers, leaving space for expansion, and seal tightly.
Thawing: To enjoy frozen summer pasta, transfer to the fridge overnight to thaw. Reheat in the oven or microwave until heated through.
Reheating: For best results, reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) covered with foil to avoid drying out, or use a microwave with a damp paper towel over the dish.
Dump-and-Bake Summer Pasta with Chicken, Zucchini, and Corn Recipe FAQs
What should I look for when selecting zucchini for this recipe?
Absolutely! When picking zucchini, go for those that are firm and shiny with no dark spots or bruises. Medium-sized zucchini typically provide the best texture and flavor. If you come across ones that are quite big, they might be too seedy and watery for your pasta dish.
How should I store leftover summer pasta?
I recommend transferring any leftovers into an airtight container and placing them in the refrigerator, where they’ll stay fresh for up to 3 days. When reheating, you can add a small splash of chicken broth to keep the creamy sauce luscious and moist.
Can I freeze the summer pasta for later?
Absolutely! To freeze your delicious summer pasta dish, portion it into freezer-safe containers, leaving some space for expansion. Cover tightly and freeze for up to 2 months. Just remember to label your containers with the date so you can keep track of them!
What’s the best way to reheat frozen summer pasta?
To enjoy your frozen pasta, first, transfer it to the fridge overnight to thaw. When you’re ready to reheat, I suggest placing it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) covered with foil for about 25-30 minutes or until heated through, which helps retain the creamy texture. If you’re using a microwave, cover it with a damp paper towel to prevent it from drying out during reheating.
Are there any allergies I should be aware of with this recipe?
Very much so! This dish contains common allergens such as dairy from the Alfredo sauce and cheese, as well as gluten from the pasta. If you’re cooking for someone with dietary restrictions, you can easily swap the pasta for a gluten-free variety and use non-dairy cheese alternatives for a lactose-free version.
What can I do if I have too much liquid in my dish?
If you find that your summer pasta has excess liquid after baking, don’t fret! Next time, consider reducing the amount of chicken broth by about 1/4 cup. Also, before baking, ensure that the sauce is evenly mixed with the pasta to avoid any clumps or uneven cooking, making for a delightful dish!
Delicious Summer Pasta Dump-and-Bake for Easy Family Dinners
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C) and spray a 9x13-inch baking dish with nonstick cooking spray.
- Combine uncooked penne pasta, shredded chicken, cherry tomatoes, zucchini, corn, and fresh basil in the baking dish and mix gently.
- Whisk together chicken broth, Alfredo sauce, white wine, basil pesto, and Italian seasoning until smooth.
- Pour the sauce over the pasta mixture, stir to combine, cover tightly with foil, and bake for 40 minutes.
- Check doneness after 40 minutes, stirring gently. If needed, cover and bake longer.
- Sprinkle shredded cheese on top and broil for 1-2 minutes until melted and golden.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste, garnish with herbs if desired, and serve hot.