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 upgraded feta pasta after a busy workday and was amazed by how the caramelised onions created a subtle sweetness that balanced perfectly with the salty feta. The sun-dried tomatoes give it a rich Mediterranean flavor, making it a new staple in our home.
Ingredients
- Pasta: 340 g (12 oz) dried short pasta (e.g., 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
- Preparation:
- Preheat the oven to 200°C (400°F).
- Arrange Vegetables:
- In a large ovenproof baking dish, add the cherry tomatoes, sun-dried tomatoes, garlic, and 2 tbsp olive oil. Season generously with salt, pepper, oregano, and red pepper flakes if using. Toss to combine.
- Add Feta:
- Place the feta block in the center of the baking dish, nestling it among the tomatoes. Drizzle 1 tbsp olive oil over the feta and season lightly with pepper.
- Bake:
- Bake for 25–30 minutes, until the tomatoes burst and the feta is soft and golden at the edges.
- Caramelise Onions:
- Meanwhile, heat a large skillet over medium heat. Add 1 tbsp olive oil and the sliced onions. Cook, stirring occasionally, for 15–20 minutes until deeply caramelised and golden brown. Set aside.
- Cook Pasta:
- While the onions caramelise, cook the pasta according to package instructions in salted boiling water until al dente. Reserve 120 ml (1/2 cup) of pasta water, then drain.
- Combine Sauce:
- After baking, remove the dish from the oven. Add the caramelised onions and chopped basil to the baking dish. Stir everything together, breaking up the feta to create a creamy sauce.
- Finish:
- Add the cooked pasta to the dish, tossing to coat evenly. If needed, add reserved pasta water a little at a time for desired sauce consistency.
- Serve:
- Serve immediately, garnished with extra basil and a drizzle of olive oil if desired.
Save This pasta dish quickly became our Friday night tradition. Gathering around the table with a bowl of creamy, fragrant pasta has made weeknights feel special and comforting for the whole family.
Recipe Pairings
Pairs well with a crisp Sauvignon Blanc or a light rosé. Add a side of simple green salad for freshness.
Nutrition Information
Each serving contains about 480 calories, 20 g total fat, 56 g carbohydrates, and 16 g protein.
Required Tools
You will need a large ovenproof baking dish, large pot, skillet, knife, chopping board, and wooden spoon or spatula.
Save This baked feta pasta comes together so easily and is packed with bold flavors. Enjoy every creamy, tangy bite and make it your new favorite comfort food.
Recipe Guide
- → Can I use a different type of cheese?
Feta adds unique creaminess and tang, but goat cheese or ricotta can offer a similar texture if preferred.
- → What pasta shapes work best?
Short pasta like fusilli, penne, or rigatoni hold the creamy sauce well and mix evenly with the other ingredients.
- → How do I caramelise onions perfectly?
Cook sliced onions slowly on medium heat, stirring occasionally until deeply golden and sweet, around 15–20 minutes.
- → Are there gluten-free options for this dish?
Choose certified gluten-free pasta for a suitable version, while keeping all other ingredients unchanged.
- → What herbs pair well with this meal?
Fresh basil adds aroma and color; parsley or thyme can be added for variety and extra Mediterranean flair.
- → Can I add proteins to this dish?
Chickpeas or grilled chicken can be tossed with pasta to make it heartier, without overpowering the main flavors.