Baked Feta Pasta Twist

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 tried this upgraded baked feta pasta, the caramelised onions and sun-dried tomatoes made all the difference. It became an instant favorite in our home for both casual dinners and gatherings.

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 assemble dish:

Preheat 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, nestling among tomatoes. Drizzle 1 tbsp olive oil over the feta, 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 skillet over medium. Add 1 tbsp olive oil and sliced onions. Cook, stirring, for 15–20 minutes until deeply caramelised and golden brown. Set aside.

Cook pasta:

While onions caramelise, cook pasta in salted boiling water until al dente. Reserve 120 ml (1/2 cup) of pasta water, then drain.

Mix sauce:

After baking, remove dish. Add caramelised onions and chopped basil. Stir, breaking up feta to create creamy sauce.

Combine:

Add pasta, toss to coat evenly. Add reserved pasta water for sauce consistency if needed.

Serve:

Garnish with extra basil and drizzle olive oil if desired. Serve immediately.

Save

This dish always brings everyone to the kitchen, eager for seconds. It's a favorite for both parents and kids, especially with the creamy sauce and sweet onions.

Required Tools

Large ovenproof baking dish, large pot for boiling pasta, skillet, knife and chopping board, wooden spoon or spatula

Nutritional Information

Per serving: 480 calories, 20 g total fat, 56 g carbohydrates, 16 g protein

Serving and Pairings

Pairs well with crisp Sauvignon Blanc or light rosé. Add a handful of baby spinach or arugula just before serving for added freshness.

Save

This pasta is a fuss-free crowd-pleaser with a luxurious texture and deep flavor. Enjoy warm, garnished with fresh basil for best results.

Recipe Questions & Answers

→ Can I use a different pasta shape?

Yes, most short pasta shapes like fusilli, penne, or rigatoni work well and hold the creamy sauce nicely.

→ How do I achieve deeply caramelised onions?

Cook sliced onions slowly over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until golden brown and sweet—about 15–20 minutes.

→ Is feta cheese required or can I substitute?

Feta's tangy flavor is distinctive, but similar brined cheeses, such as goat's cheese, can add a different twist.

→ Can I make this dish gluten-free?

Absolutely, just substitute regular pasta with gluten-free varieties for a suitable alternative.

→ What vegetables complement this bake?

Additions like baby spinach or arugula work well for extra color, nutrition, and depth of flavor just before serving.

→ What kind of wine pairs best?

A crisp Sauvignon Blanc or light rosé enhances the Mediterranean flavors wonderfully.