Greg Halford, Danny Collins, Dan Harding and Simon Gillett were all in action for Forest, while Adlene Guedioura also featured after making a permanent switch to the City Ground this summer.
Midfielder Radoslaw Majewski also made a much welcomed return from injury as they cruised to victory after a poor first-half display.
Lewis McGugan, who has been linked with a move away from the club this summer, opened the scoring in the 71st minute only for Villa midfielder Barry Bannan to level things up two minutes later.
But substitute Marcus Tudgay restored Forest's lead minutes after coming on before McGugan grabbed his second six minutes from time.
Championship Promotion 12/13 Promotion: Nottingham Forest 8/1
