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 updated feta pasta when I was craving comfort food but wanted something slightly more adventurous. The richness of caramelised onions surprised my family and truly elevated every bite. It's now a weeknight staple we all look forward to.
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
- Vegetables: 200 g (1 cup) cherry tomatoes, halved
- Vegetables: 80 g (1/2 cup) sun-dried tomatoes in oil, drained and sliced
- Vegetables: 3 cloves garlic, thinly sliced
- Vegetables: 2 tbsp fresh basil, chopped (plus extra for serving)
- Pantry: 3 tbsp olive oil (divided)
- Pantry: 1 tsp dried oregano
- Pantry: 1/2 tsp crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
- Pantry: Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
Instructions
- Preheat Oven:
- Preheat the oven to 200°C (400°F).
- Prepare Vegetables:
- In a large ovenproof baking dish, add the cherry tomatoes, sun-dried tomatoes, garlic, and 2 tbsp olive oil. Season with salt, pepper, oregano, and red pepper flakes if desired. Toss to combine.
- Add Feta:
- Place the feta block in the center of the baking dish among the tomatoes. Drizzle 1 tbsp olive oil over the feta and 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, heat a large skillet over medium heat. Add 1 tbsp olive oil and the sliced onions. Cook, stirring, for 15 to 20 minutes until deeply caramelised and golden brown. Set aside.
- Cook Pasta:
- Boil pasta according to package instructions in salted water until al dente. Reserve 120 ml (1/2 cup) pasta water and drain.
- Mix Sauce:
- Remove baking dish from oven. Add caramelised onions and chopped basil. Stir and break up feta for creamy sauce.
- Combine Pasta:
- Add cooked pasta to baking dish and toss to coat. Use reserved pasta water for desired consistency.
- Serve:
- Garnish with extra basil and drizzle of olive oil if desired. Serve immediately.
Save On a recent Sunday night, we all gathered around the table and everyone reached for seconds. My youngest, who usually refuses tomatoes, loved how they blended with the creamy feta and sweet onions. It's a meal that always brings us together.
Required Tools
Large ovenproof baking dish, large pot for boiling pasta, skillet, 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 well with crisp Sauvignon Blanc or a light rosé. Add baby spinach or arugula for extra flavor.
Save This baked feta pasta always impresses and comes together quickly. Its flavors deepen as it sits, making leftovers just as delicious.
Recipe Help
- → How can I prevent feta from drying out?
Drizzle olive oil over the feta and bake surrounded by juicy tomatoes for a creamy texture.
- → Can I use gluten-free pasta?
Absolutely. Substitute any gluten-free short pasta; adjust cooking time as needed.
- → What herbs complement the flavors?
Fresh basil adds brightness, while oregano and crushed red pepper deliver extra depth.
- → Is caramelised onion essential?
Caramelised onions provide sweetness and richness, elevating the dish’s flavor complexity.
- → What wine pairs well?
A crisp Sauvignon Blanc or light rosé complements the tangy and savory notes beautifully.
- → How do I store leftovers?
Cool and refrigerate in an airtight container; gently reheat with a splash of water or oil.