Pin 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 made this pasta for my family after discovering the viral version, but adding caramelised onions and sun-dried tomatoes truly made it a weeknight favorite for us. The creamy, tangy feta pairs perfectly with the sweetness of the onions, making every bite irresistible.
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
- Prepare oven and veggies:
- Preheat the 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 if using. Toss to combine.
- Bake feta and tomatoes:
- 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 for 25 to 30 minutes until tomatoes burst and 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 to 20 minutes until deeply caramelised and golden brown. Set aside.
- Cook pasta:
- While onions caramelise, cook the pasta according to package instructions in salted boiling water until al dente. Reserve 120 ml (1/2 cup) pasta water, then drain.
- Mix and finish:
- After baking, remove the dish from the oven. Add caramelised onions and chopped basil. Stir together, breaking up the feta to create a creamy sauce. Add cooked pasta and toss to coat, adding reserved pasta water as needed for desired consistency. Serve immediately, garnished with extra basil and a drizzle of olive oil.
Pin Sharing this updated baked feta pasta with my kids has become a small ritual on busy evenings, and every time they ask for seconds, it warms my heart knowing a simple twist brings so much joy.
Flavor Variations
Add a handful of baby spinach or arugula just before serving for freshness and extra nutrition.
Quick Serving Tips
Garnish the pasta with extra basil leaves and a drizzle of good olive oil for a finishing touch.
Nutritional Information
This dish provides about 480 calories per serving, with 20 g fat, 56 g carbohydrates, and 16 g protein.
Pin This modern baked feta pasta makes any dinner feel special yet effortless. Enjoy with friends or family for guaranteed smiles at the table.
Recipe FAQ
- → How do caramelised onions enhance the pasta?
Caramelised onions add sweetness and depth, balancing tangy feta and bright tomato flavors.
- → Can I use other types of pasta?
Short varieties like penne or rigatoni work best, but any favorite pasta shape can be substituted.
- → Is this dish suitable for a vegetarian diet?
Yes, all ingredients are vegetarian-friendly when standard feta and pasta are used.
- → What are suggested pairings for this dish?
A crisp Sauvignon Blanc or light rosé complements the creamy, tangy flavors perfectly.
- → How can I make it gluten-free?
Simply substitute regular pasta with a certified gluten-free variety for a safe alternative.
- → What other vegetables can be added?
Baby spinach or arugula are tasty additions added just before serving for freshness.