Baked Feta Pasta 2.0

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 version for a quick family dinner and the caramelized onions really make it unforgettable. Even picky eaters asked for seconds and now this recipe is in our weeknight rotation.

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 and Vegetables:

Preheat oven to 200°C (400°F). 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. Toss to combine.

Add Feta:

Place feta block in center of dish among tomatoes. Drizzle 1 tbsp olive oil over feta and season lightly with pepper.

Bake:

Bake for 25 to 30 minutes until tomatoes burst and feta is soft and golden at edges.

Caramelise Onions:

While baking, heat skillet over medium. Add 1 tbsp olive oil and sliced onions. Cook for 15 to 20 minutes until deeply caramelised and golden. Set aside.

Cook Pasta:

Cook pasta according to package instructions in salted boiling water until al dente. Reserve 120 ml (1/2 cup) pasta water, then drain.

Combine:

Remove baking dish from oven. Add caramelised onions and chopped basil. Stir, breaking up feta to make creamy sauce.

Toss Pasta:

Add cooked pasta to dish and mix evenly. Add reserved pasta water, if needed, for sauce consistency.

Serve:

Serve immediately, garnish with extra basil and drizzle olive oil if desired.

Pin

This pasta is a hit at family gatherings, especially for vegetarians. Kids love the creamy sauce, and adults appreciate how the caramelised onions add sophisticated flavor.

Required Tools

Large ovenproof baking dish, large pot for boiling pasta, skillet, knife and chopping board, wooden spoon or spatula

Nutritional Information

Per serving: 480 calories, 20 g total fat, 56 g carbohydrates, 16 g protein

Serving Ideas

Pairs well with a crisp Sauvignon Blanc or a light rosé. For extra flavor, add a handful of baby spinach or arugula just before serving.

Pin

This upgraded baked feta pasta makes dinner extra special and is surprisingly fuss-free. Enjoy a flavorful, comforting meal any night of the week.

Recipe FAQ

→ Can I use other types of cheese instead of feta?

While feta provides a tangy creaminess, goat cheese or ricotta may work, but will alter the flavor and texture.

→ How do I achieve perfect caramelised onions?

Cook onions low and slow in olive oil, stirring occasionally until they become deep golden and sweet.

→ Is this dish suitable for gluten-free diets?

Yes, simply substitute regular pasta with your preferred gluten-free option for an inclusive meal.

→ What vegetables pair well with this dish?

Fresh spinach or arugula are excellent additions for extra color and nutrients. Add them just before serving.

→ Can I make this ahead of time?

Prepare elements in advance but combine and reheat gently before serving to maintain the creamy texture.

→ Which wine matches best?

A crisp Sauvignon Blanc or a light rosé enhances the creamy and tangy Mediterranean flavors beautifully.