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 baked this feta pasta with caramelised onions, my kitchen filled with an amazing aroma that made dinner feel extra comforting. It's now one of my go-to recipes when I want to impress without spending hours cooking.
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 & Preheat:
- Preheat the oven to 200°C (400°F).
- Assemble Base:
- 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.
- Mix & 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.
- Add Pasta & Finish:
- 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 This is a meal that brings my family together around the table, often with everyone sneaking tastes before it even leaves the oven. It never fails to generate happy requests for seconds.
Required Tools
Large ovenproof baking dish, large pot for boiling pasta, skillet, knife and chopping board, wooden spoon or spatula.
Nutritional Information
Each serving contains approximately 480 calories, 20 g total fat, 56 g carbohydrates, and 16 g protein.
Serving Suggestions
Pairs beautifully with a crisp Sauvignon Blanc or a light rosé for a refreshing contrast.
Save This baked feta pasta is guaranteed to become a staple in your dinner rotation. The caramelised onions and sun-dried tomatoes make every bite vibrant and memorable.
Recipe FAQ
- → How do I achieve perfectly caramelised onions?
Slowly cook sliced onions in olive oil over medium heat for 15–20 minutes, stirring frequently until golden brown.
- → Can I use a different type of cheese?
Feta offers a distinct tangy, creamy result, but goat cheese or ricotta can provide alternative creamy textures.
- → Is it possible to make this gluten-free?
Yes, simply substitute regular pasta with gluten-free pasta for a suitable alternative without sacrificing flavor.
- → What wine pairs well with this dish?
A crisp Sauvignon Blanc or light rosé complements the creamy, tangy flavors and refreshes the palate.
- → How can I add more vegetables?
Toss in baby spinach or arugula just before serving for extra greens and a fresh, peppery kick.
- → How do I adjust sauce consistency?
Gradually add reserved pasta water when mixing until you reach your preferred creamy texture.