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.
The first time I made this baked feta pasta, the addition of caramelised onions truly transformed the dish into something unforgettable. The creamy feta melts beautifully into a rich sauce, and sun-dried tomatoes provide unique depth that everyone in my family loved.
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 vegetables:
- 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.
- 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 25–30 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 sliced onions. Cook, stirring occasionally, for 15–20 minutes until deeply caramelised and golden brown. Set aside.
- Cook pasta:
- While onions caramelise, cook pasta according to package instructions in salted boiling water until al dente. Reserve 120 ml (1/2 cup) pasta water, then drain.
- Mix:
- Remove dish from oven. Add caramelised onions and chopped basil to the baking dish. Stir, breaking up feta to create creamy sauce.
- Combine and serve:
- Add cooked pasta to dish, tossing to coat. If needed, add reserved pasta water for desired sauce consistency. Serve immediately, garnished with extra basil and olive oil.
Save Our kids now request this baked feta pasta any time we need a comforting dinner that comes together quickly, and it always gets polished off with no leftovers!
Required Tools
Large ovenproof baking dish, large pot, skillet, knife and chopping board, wooden spoon or spatula.
Allergen Information
Contains milk (feta cheese) and wheat (pasta). Use gluten-free pasta for a gluten-free version and check sun-dried tomatoes for cross-contamination.
Nutritional Information
Per serving: 480 calories, 20 g fat, 56 g carbohydrates, 16 g protein.
Save Enjoy this easy pasta — perfect for vegetarians and anyone who loves bold flavors. Serve with a crisp Sauvignon Blanc or light rosé for an elevated meal.
Kitchen Guide
- → What type of pasta works best?
Short pasta shapes like fusilli, penne, or rigatoni hold the creamy feta sauce well and provide a satisfying texture.
- → Can I use other cheeses instead of feta?
While feta is recommended for its tangy flavor, you may substitute with soft goat cheese or ricotta for a different profile.
- → How do you achieve perfect caramelised onions?
Cook sliced onions slowly over medium heat with olive oil, stirring occasionally until deep golden and sweet.
- → Is gluten-free pasta suitable?
Yes, gluten-free pasta can be used without affecting the flavor or texture. Just cook according to the package instructions.
- → What wine pairs well?
A crisp Sauvignon Blanc or light rosé complements the creamy feta and sweet tomatoes beautifully.
- → Can I add greens to the dish?
Add baby spinach or arugula just before serving for extra color and a fresh bite.