If you are searching for a dish that brings vibrant flavors and comforting warmth all in one, this Baked Mediterranean Pasta Recipe is an absolute game changer. With tender penne pasta nestled in a rich blend of fresh vegetables, tangy olives, and a perfect balance of herbs, this casserole bakes up to golden, cheesy perfection. The combination of crumbled feta and melted mozzarella creates that ideal creamy texture that makes this dish feel truly special. Whether you’re feeding family or hosting friends, this Baked Mediterranean Pasta Recipe will quickly become a favorite for its effortless assembly and deeply satisfying taste.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These simple yet essential ingredients come together beautifully to provide a wonderful medley of flavors and textures. Each component plays a crucial role in creating a colorful, hearty dish that is every bit as delicious as it sounds.
- 12 ounces penne pasta: The perfect shape to hold sauce and cheese for each bite.
- 2 tablespoons olive oil: Adds richness and helps soften the vegetables.
- 3 cloves garlic, minced: Infuses the dish with fragrant depth.
- 1 small red onion, finely chopped: Provides a subtle sweetness and texture.
- 1 red bell pepper, diced: Adds vibrant color and a fresh crunch.
- 1 zucchini, diced: Brings moisture and a mild earthiness.
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved: Bursts with juicy brightness.
- 1/2 cup sliced Kalamata olives: Offers a distinctive briny tang.
- 1 can (14 ounces) diced tomatoes, drained: Provides a robust tomato base without excess liquid.
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano: Classic herbaceous flavor for Mediterranean flair.
- 1/2 teaspoon dried basil: Adds sweet, aromatic notes.
- 1/2 teaspoon salt: Enhances all other flavors.
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper: Gives a gentle heat and depth.
- 1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional): Adds a touch of spicy warmth for those who like a little kick.
- 1 cup crumbled feta cheese, divided: Tangy, creamy, and essential for that authentic Mediterranean taste.
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese: Melts beautifully for a gooey top layer.
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese: Adds a savory sharpness that rounds out the cheeses.
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley: Freshens up the dish with a pop of color and flavor just before serving.
How to Make Baked Mediterranean Pasta Recipe
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the penne pasta until just al dente according to the package instructions. This ensures the pasta will hold its shape and have the perfect bite after baking. Once cooked, drain and set aside — keep it ready for that delicious sauce to come.
Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Toss in the minced garlic and finely chopped red onion, sautéing for about 2 to 3 minutes until they release their heavenly aroma and soften nicely. Then, add the diced red bell pepper and zucchini, cooking them for 4 to 5 minutes until they start to become tender but still have a bit of crunch.
Step 3: Add Tomatoes, Olives, and Spices
Next, stir in halved cherry tomatoes, sliced Kalamata olives, and drained diced tomatoes. Sprinkle in the dried oregano, basil, salt, black pepper, and crushed red pepper flakes if you’re feeling adventurous. Let the mixture simmer gently for about 5 minutes. This simmering step beautifully melds all those vibrant Mediterranean flavors into one harmonious sauce.
Step 4: Combine Pasta and Feta
Remove the skillet from heat and carefully fold in the cooked penne pasta along with half of the crumbled feta cheese. The cheese adds a lovely creamy texture that starts to integrate right away, setting the stage for that perfect baked finish.
Step 5: Assemble and Bake
Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish and transfer your pasta and vegetable mixture into it. Now comes the glorious part: evenly sprinkle the shredded mozzarella, grated Parmesan, and the remaining feta cheese on top. Pop it into the preheated oven and bake for 20 to 25 minutes until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and boasts a light golden crust. Let it rest for 5 minutes outside the oven to let the flavors settle before serving.
How to Serve Baked Mediterranean Pasta Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh parsley isn’t just a garnish in this Baked Mediterranean Pasta Recipe — it adds a burst of fresh color and an herbaceous brightness that contrasts beautifully with the baked cheesy goodness. For an extra touch, sprinkle some crushed red pepper flakes on top to amp up the dish’s flavor profile.
Side Dishes
This pasta pairs excellently with a simple green salad dressed in lemon vinaigrette to balance the richness of the cheese. You might also enjoy it alongside crusty garlic bread, which soaks up every bit of that flavorful sauce.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, serve this pasta in individual oven-safe ramekins or mini casseroles for a personalized touch. You can also layer it with fresh basil leaves on top after baking to bring an additional fresh Mediterranean vibe to the table.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Once cooled, transfer any leftovers of this Baked Mediterranean Pasta Recipe into an airtight container. It stores well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days, allowing you to enjoy the meal again without losing the wonderful flavors and textures.
Freezing
If you want to prepare this dish ahead of time for busy days, freezing is a great option. Assemble the pasta in a freezer-safe dish, cover tightly with foil, and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before baking to retain its deliciousness.
Reheating
Reheat leftovers covered in the oven at 350°F for about 20 minutes or until warmed through and bubbly again. If reheating in the microwave, cover loosely and heat in short intervals to prevent the pasta from drying out.
FAQs
Can I use gluten-free pasta in the Baked Mediterranean Pasta Recipe?
Absolutely! Gluten-free penne or any other pasta of your choice works perfectly and allows those with gluten sensitivities to enjoy this flavorful Mediterranean dish without compromise.
Is this recipe suitable for a vegetarian diet?
Yes, this recipe is naturally vegetarian. It packs a protein punch from cheese and the option to add chickpeas if desired, making it both filling and nutritious without meat.
What can I add to make this dish more protein-rich?
Great protein extras include grilled chicken, chickpeas, or even cooked lentils added before baking. These additions blend seamlessly with the Mediterranean flavors and add extra substance.
Can I prepare the sauce ahead of time?
Definitely! You can make the vegetable sauce a day in advance and refrigerate it. When ready, stir in the cooked pasta and cheese, then bake as directed for a convenient dinner solution.
What if I want the pasta creamier?
For a richer, creamier texture, try stirring in 1/4 cup of heavy cream right before combining the sauce with pasta. This small addition makes the casserole extra indulgent and luscious.
Final Thoughts
If you love dishes that combine wholesome ingredients with bold flavors, the Baked Mediterranean Pasta Recipe is a dish you simply must try. It’s wonderful for weeknight dinners or entertaining guests, offering comfort, color, and a little slice of Mediterranean sunshine in every bite. Once you make it, don’t be surprised if it quickly becomes your go-to pasta bake recipe—sharing it with friends only makes the experience even sweeter!
Print
Baked Mediterranean Pasta Recipe
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Mediterranean
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This Baked Mediterranean Pasta is a delicious, hearty vegetarian dish featuring penne pasta tossed with sautéed garlic, red onion, bell pepper, zucchini, cherry tomatoes, and Kalamata olives. The flavorful mix is seasoned with oregano, basil, and a hint of crushed red pepper flakes, then baked under a melty layer of feta, mozzarella, and Parmesan cheeses. Garnished with fresh parsley, it’s perfect as a wholesome weeknight dinner or a comforting main course with a Mediterranean flair.
Ingredients
Pasta and Cheese
- 12 ounces penne pasta
- 1 cup crumbled feta cheese, divided
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Vegetables and Flavorings
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 small red onion, finely chopped
- 1 red bell pepper, diced
- 1 zucchini, diced
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1/2 cup sliced Kalamata olives
- 1 can (14 ounces) diced tomatoes, drained
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon dried basil
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
Instructions
- Preheat and cook pasta: Preheat your oven to 375°F. Meanwhile, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the penne pasta according to package directions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- Sauté aromatics: In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and finely chopped red onion. Sauté for 2 to 3 minutes until fragrant and softened.
- Cook vegetables: Add the diced red bell pepper and zucchini to the skillet. Cook for 4 to 5 minutes until they start to become tender.
- Add tomatoes and seasonings: Stir in the halved cherry tomatoes, sliced Kalamata olives, drained diced tomatoes, dried oregano, dried basil, salt, black pepper, and crushed red pepper flakes if using. Allow the mixture to simmer for 5 minutes to blend the flavors.
- Combine pasta and cheese: Remove the skillet from heat and fold in the cooked penne pasta and half of the crumbled feta cheese, mixing thoroughly to combine.
- Transfer to baking dish: Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish. Transfer the pasta and vegetable mixture into the dish and spread it evenly.
- Top with cheeses: Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella, grated Parmesan, and remaining feta cheese evenly over the top of the pasta mixture.
- Bake: Place the baking dish in the preheated oven. Bake for 20 to 25 minutes until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and the top is lightly golden brown.
- Rest and garnish: Remove from the oven and let the pasta bake rest for 5 minutes before serving. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley for a fresh finish.
Notes
- You can add grilled chicken or chickpeas for extra protein.
- To increase fiber, substitute whole wheat pasta.
- For a creamier texture, stir in 1/4 cup heavy cream into the mixture before baking.
