Preheat the oven to 180°C (356°F). Lightly grease your baking dish to prevent sticking.
Place the garlic cloves on a sheet of foil, drizzle with olive oil, and roast in the oven for about 15 minutes until fragrant and soft. Once cooled slightly, mash the roasted garlic into a paste.
Cook the pasta in a large pot of salted boiling water until just al dente, about 8 minutes. Drain and set aside.
In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked pasta, marinara sauce, mashed roasted garlic, nutritional yeast, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Mix well until the pasta is evenly coated with the sauce.
Transfer the pasta mixture into the prepared baking dish, spreading it out evenly with a spatula.
Layer slices or shredded vegan cheese over the top of the pasta evenly, then sprinkle the bread crumbs or crushed crackers for a crunchy topping.
Bake uncovered in the oven for about 20-25 minutes, until the top is golden and bubbling around the edges.
Remove from the oven and let it rest for 5 minutes; this helps everything set and makes serving easier.
Garnish with freshly chopped basil or parsley to add a vibrant, fresh flavor before serving.
Slice and serve hot, enjoying the crispy top and tender pasta inside—comfort food at its best!