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 made this updated feta pasta after many requests for something more bold. The addition of caramelised onions creates a deeper taste, and sun-dried tomatoes make each bite pop with savory flavor. It quickly became a staple in my vegetarian dinner rotation.
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
- Prepare for baking:
- Preheat oven to 200°C (400°F).
- Assemble baking dish:
- Add cherry tomatoes, sun-dried tomatoes, garlic, and 2 tbsp olive oil to a large ovenproof dish. Season with salt, pepper, oregano, and red pepper flakes if using. Toss to combine.
- Add feta:
- Place feta block in the center of the 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:
- While baking, heat a skillet over medium. Add 1 tbsp olive oil and onions; cook, stirring occasionally, 15–20 minutes until deeply caramelised and golden. Set aside.
- Cook pasta:
- Cook pasta in salted boiling water until al dente, following package instructions. Reserve 120 ml (1/2 cup) pasta water, then drain.
- Make sauce:
- Remove dish from oven. Add caramelised onions and chopped basil. Stir, breaking up feta, to create creamy sauce.
- Combine:
- Add drained pasta to dish. Toss to coat. Add reserved pasta water as needed for creamy consistency.
- Serve:
- Serve immediately, garnished with extra basil and a drizzle of olive oil if desired.
Save This dish was an instant hit in my family: the creamy feta sauce and caramelised onions remind us of festive dinners. Even picky eaters get excited when they see it bubbling in the oven.
Required Tools
Large ovenproof baking dish, large pot for boiling pasta, skillet, knife and chopping board, wooden spoon or spatula
Allergen Information
Contains milk (from feta cheese) and wheat (from pasta). To make gluten-free, substitute gluten-free pasta and double-check sun-dried tomatoes for cross-contamination.
Nutritional Information
Per serving: Calories 480, Total Fat 20 g, Carbohydrates 56 g, Protein 16 g
Save Enjoy this one-pan pasta as a satisfying vegetarian dinner that feels special yet fuss-free. The creamy sauce and sweet onions make it a standout weeknight favorite.
Recipe FAQ
- → What type of pasta works best?
Short shapes like fusilli, penne, or rigatoni coat well with the creamy sauce and allow for even baking.
- → Can I substitute another cheese for feta?
Creamy goat cheese or ricotta can be used, but feta provides the ideal tang and texture that elevates the dish.
- → How do I achieve deeply caramelised onions?
Cook onions low and slow in olive oil until golden brown, stirring occasionally to develop sweetness without burning.
- → Is it possible to make this dish gluten-free?
Yes, swap regular pasta for gluten-free varieties to accommodate dietary restrictions, keeping flavor intact.
- → What wine pairs well with this pasta?
A crisp Sauvignon Blanc or light rosé complements the creamy, tangy flavors and Mediterranean ingredients.
- → Can I add more vegetables?
Fresh spinach or arugula stirred in just before serving adds an earthy note and boosts nutrition.