Save Pin 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.
When I first tested this baked feta pasta with caramelised onions, my friends were amazed by the rich flavor in such a simple dish. It's become a go-to for dinner parties and cozy evenings alike.
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, 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 Oven:
- Preheat the oven to 200°C (400°F).
- Prepare Tomatoes & Garlic:
- 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 & Make 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.
- Toss Pasta:
- 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:
- Serve immediately, garnished with extra basil and a drizzle of olive oil if desired.
Save Pin Our family loves to gather around the table for this vibrant pasta, often sharing stories about Mediterranean travels while enjoying every bite 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.
Serving Suggestions
Pairs well with a crisp Sauvignon Blanc or a light rosé. Add a handful of baby spinach or arugula just before serving for extra freshness.
Save Pin This pasta makes weeknight dinners a breeze and offers a Mediterranean escape with every forkful!
Recipe FAQs
- → How do I achieve perfectly caramelised onions?
Cook sliced onions slowly over medium heat with olive oil, stirring occasionally until deeply golden, about 15–20 minutes. Patience is key for full flavor.
- → Can I use a different type of cheese?
Feta’s saltiness works best, but soft goat cheese or ricotta can provide a creamy, tangy alternative, though flavor and texture will vary.
- → How do I make this gluten-free?
Substitute your favorite certified gluten-free pasta and check sun-dried tomatoes for any potential cross-contamination before using.
- → What pasta shapes pair best?
Short, ridged pasta like fusilli, penne, or rigatoni hold the creamy sauce well and create satisfying bites in every forkful.
- → How do I store leftovers?
Cool completely, then refrigerate in an airtight container for up to three days. Gently reheat with a splash of pasta water or olive oil.
- → What wine works well with this dish?
A crisp Sauvignon Blanc or light rosé complements the saltiness of feta and sweetness of caramelised onions perfectly.