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 tried this upgraded baked feta pasta for family dinner and was amazed how the caramelised onions brought a complex sweetness, and the sauce came together so effortlessly. Everyone went back for seconds!
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
- Prep and Bake Tomatoes:
- Preheat oven to 200°C (400°F). In a large ovenproof dish, combine 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.
- Prepare Feta:
- Place feta block in the center, nestling it among the tomatoes. Drizzle 1 tbsp olive oil over feta, season lightly with pepper.
- Bake:
- Bake 25–30 minutes, until tomatoes burst and feta is soft and golden at the edges.
- Caramelise Onions:
- Meanwhile, heat a skillet over medium. Add 1 tbsp olive oil and sliced onions, cooking 15–20 min, stirring now and then, until deeply caramelised and golden. Set aside.
- Boil Pasta:
- While onions cook, boil pasta per package instructions in salted water until al dente. Reserve 120 ml (1/2 cup) pasta water, then drain.
- Combine Sauce:
- Remove dish from oven once baked. Add caramelised onions and basil. Stir well, breaking up the feta to create a creamy sauce.
- Mix Pasta:
- Add cooked pasta, tossing to coat evenly. If needed, add reserved pasta water until desired sauce consistency.
- Serve:
- Serve immediately, garnished with extra basil and drizzle of olive oil.
Save This dish quickly became a favorite in our house—especially after the kids helped sprinkle extra basil before serving and we made it together for a Mediterranean-themed night!
Required Tools
Large ovenproof baking dish, large pot for pasta, skillet for onions, knife and chopping board, wooden spoon or spatula
Nutritional Information (per serving)
Calories: 480, Total Fat: 20 g, Carbohydrates: 56 g, Protein: 16 g
Pairings & Variations
Pairs beautifully with a crisp Sauvignon Blanc or light rosé. Add baby spinach or arugula just before serving for extra flavor.
Save Enjoy the deep flavor and creamy texture—this dish is sure to impress for both weeknight and special occasions!
Kitchen Tips & Answers
- → What pasta shapes work best?
Short pasta like fusilli, penne, or rigatoni hold the creamy sauce well and provide great texture for this dish.
- → Can I use low-fat feta cheese?
Yes, low-fat feta can be used but full-fat offers a creamier, richer sauce for better texture and flavor.
- → How do I achieve perfect caramelized onions?
Cook onions slowly over medium heat with olive oil, stirring occasionally, until deeply golden and sweet—about 15-20 minutes.
- → Is this dish vegetarian?
Yes, all ingredients are vegetarian friendly. Use gluten-free pasta if you have dietary restrictions.
- → What wine pairs well with this?
A crisp Sauvignon Blanc or light rosé balances the dish's creamy and tangy flavors beautifully.
- → Can I add extra vegetables?
Absolutely. Baby spinach or arugula can be stirred in just before serving for more color and nutrition.