Save A creamy, tangy baked feta pasta elevated with sweet caramelised onions and rich sun-dried tomatoes. This modern twist delivers deep flavor and irresistible texture, perfect for an easy weeknight meal.
I first tried this baked feta pasta after seeing the viral trend, but by adding deeply caramelised onions and sun-dried tomatoes, it became an even more decadent dish my family couldn't stop requesting. The robust Mediterranean flavors make it truly stand out.
Ingredients
- Pasta: 340 g (12 oz) dried short pasta (fusilli, penne, or rigatoni)
- Cheese: 200 g (7 oz) block feta cheese
- Vegetables: 2 medium yellow onions, thinly sliced; 200 g (1 cup) cherry tomatoes, halved; 80 g (1/2 cup) sun-dried tomatoes in oil, drained and sliced; 3 cloves garlic, thinly sliced; 2 tbsp fresh basil, chopped (plus extra for serving)
- Pantry: 3 tbsp olive oil (divided); 1 tsp dried oregano; 1/2 tsp crushed red pepper flakes (optional); Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
Instructions
- Prep Oven:
- Preheat the oven to 200°C (400°F).
- Prepare Baking Dish:
- In a large ovenproof baking dish, add cherry tomatoes, sun-dried tomatoes, garlic, and 2 tbsp olive oil. Season with salt, pepper, oregano, and red pepper flakes if using. Toss to combine.
- Add Feta:
- Place the feta block in the center of the dish and drizzle 1 tbsp olive oil over it. Season lightly with pepper.
- Bake:
- Bake for 25 to 30 minutes until tomatoes burst and feta is soft and golden at the edges.
- Caramelise Onions:
- Meanwhile, add 1 tbsp olive oil and sliced onions to a skillet over medium heat. Cook, stirring occasionally, for 15 to 20 minutes until deeply caramelised and golden brown. Set aside.
- Cook Pasta:
- While onions cook, boil pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 120 ml (1/2 cup) of pasta water, then drain.
- Combine:
- After baking, remove dish from oven. Add caramelised onions and chopped basil, stirring everything together, breaking up feta for a creamy sauce.
- Toss Pasta:
- Add cooked pasta to dish, tossing to coat. Add reserved pasta water a little at a time if needed for sauce consistency.
- Serve:
- Serve immediately, garnished with extra basil and a drizzle of olive oil if desired.
Save We served this at our last family gathering and everyone asked for the recipe, even the kids loved the creamy sauce and sweet onions.
Serving Suggestions
This pasta pairs beautifully with a crisp Sauvignon Blanc or a light rosé for a refreshing meal.
Required Tools
Use a large ovenproof baking dish, large pot for boiling pasta, skillet, knife, chopping board, and a wooden spoon for best results.
Nutritional Information
Each serving contains 480 calories, 20 g total fat, 56 g carbohydrates, and 16 g protein.
Save Enjoy this irresistible baked feta pasta with a sprinkle of fresh basil and a drizzle of olive oil for the finishing touch.
Recipe Guide
- → What type of pasta works best?
Short shapes such as fusilli, penne, or rigatoni hold the creamy sauce well and offer ideal texture.
- → Can I substitute feta cheese?
Yes, try firm goat cheese or ricotta salata for a similar tang and creamy consistency.
- → How do I ensure onions caramelise properly?
Cook onions slowly over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until deep golden brown for rich sweetness.
- → Is this dish gluten-free?
Use certified gluten-free pasta to enjoy this meal without wheat ingredients. Always check packaged products.
- → What other vegetables can be added?
Baby spinach or arugula mix well and add extra flavour and nutrition. Stir in just before serving for freshness.
- → Which wine pairs nicely?
A crisp Sauvignon Blanc or light rosé complements the creamy feta and sweet caramelised vegetables beautifully.