Pin it 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 baked feta pasta when it went viral but the addition of caramelised onions and sun-dried tomatoes makes this version truly unforgettable. The experience of mixing the creamy sauce right in the baking dish is always satisfying and the aroma that fills the kitchen is a real treat.
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
- Preheat & Prep:
- Preheat the oven to 200°C (400°F).
- Combine Ingredients:
- In a large ovenproof baking dish, add the cherry tomatoes, sun-dried tomatoes, garlic, and 2 tbsp olive oil. Season generously 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, nestling it among the tomatoes. Drizzle 1 tbsp olive oil over the feta and season lightly with pepper.
- Bake:
- Bake for 25–30 minutes, until the tomatoes burst and the 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 15–20 minutes until deeply caramelised and golden brown. Set aside.
- Cook Pasta:
- While the onions caramelise, cook the pasta according to package instructions in salted boiling water until al dente. Reserve 120 ml (1/2 cup) of pasta water, then drain.
- Combine Sauce:
- After baking, remove the dish from the oven. Add the caramelised onions and chopped basil to the baking dish. Stir everything together, breaking up the feta to create a creamy sauce.
- Finish & Serve:
- Add the cooked pasta to the dish, tossing to coat evenly. If needed, add reserved pasta water a little at a time for desired sauce consistency. Serve immediately, garnished with extra basil and a drizzle of olive oil if desired.
Pin it Baked feta pasta has become a staple recipe for my family. We love gathering around the table and letting everyone mix their own bowl, adding extra basil and olive oil to taste. It is always a hit with both kids and adults.
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
Serving Suggestions
Enjoy with a crisp Sauvignon Blanc or light rosé, and consider pairing with steamed greens or a simple salad for balance.
Pin it This dish comes together effortlessly yet tastes gourmet. Serve it fresh and hot for the best flavor and texture.
Recipe FAQs
- → How do caramelised onions enhance the dish?
Caramelised onions add sweetness and depth, balancing the tang of feta and tomatoes for extra complexity.
- → Can I use another cheese instead of feta?
Try goat cheese or ricotta for a different texture; feta delivers a distinctive tangy and creamy profile.
- → What's the best pasta shape for this dish?
Short shapes like fusilli, penne, or rigatoni hold the creamy sauce well and deliver optimal texture.
- → How do I adjust for gluten-free options?
Simply substitute gluten-free pasta for traditional wheat varieties without changing the other ingredients.
- → What herbs complement the flavors?
Fresh basil adds brightness, while oregano and a hint of red pepper flakes boost aroma and warmth.
- → Can I prepare the caramelised onions ahead?
Yes, caramelise onions in advance and refrigerate, then add when mixing everything together at the end.