Baked Mediterranean Pasta Recipe
If your tastebuds are looking for a little vacation on a busy weeknight, Baked Mediterranean Pasta is just the ticket! Packed with colorful veggies, the briny pop of olives and capers, and an irresistible cheesy crust, this dish is both hearty and refreshingly bright. It brings together classic Mediterranean flavors in one bubbling casserole that’s as much a treat for the eyes as it is for the palate. Whether you’re feeding a hungry family or impressing friends at a casual get-together, this recipe delivers comfort and vibrance in every bite, all with minimal fuss.
Ingredients You’ll Need
You don’t need a ton of fancy ingredients for Baked Mediterranean Pasta—just a handful of Mediterranean staples and bright vegetables that each bring their unique flavor and texture. These essentials work in harmony to create the perfect blend of savory, tangy, and melty goodness!
- Penne Pasta: Its sturdy tubes hold onto all that delicious sauce and cheese for maximum flavor in every bite.
- Olive Oil: Adds richness and helps soften the vegetables, enhancing their natural sweetness.
- Red Onion: Brings a gentle sharpness that mellows beautifully as it cooks.
- Garlic: Aromatic and punchy, it’s essential for that signature Mediterranean depth of flavor.
- Red and Yellow Bell Peppers: Their vibrant color and subtle sweetness brighten up both the dish’s look and taste.
- Zucchini: Softens in the oven, giving a delicate bite and soaking up all the luscious flavors.
- Cherry Tomatoes: Bursty little gems that add juiciness and hints of tartness throughout the pasta.
- Salt & Black Pepper: Simple seasonings that lay the groundwork for every other ingredient to shine.
- Dried Oregano: The classic Mediterranean herb that ties all the elements together.
- Crushed Red Pepper Flakes (optional): Give the dish a whisper of heat for those who love a gentle kick.
- Diced Tomatoes (canned): Make the sauce lush and flavorful without any fuss.
- Kalamata Olives: Salty, savory, and distinctly Mediterranean – these add a pop of umami in every bite.
- Capers: Their briny tang brings a lift to the overall flavor profile, keeping things lively.
- Fresh Basil: Stirred in at the end, basil infuses the dish with its unmistakable perfumed freshness.
- Mozzarella Cheese: Melts to create that gooey layer everyone adores in a pasta bake.
- Feta Cheese: Sprinkled on top, it adds creamy, salty bites and a bit of tanginess that makes the casserole sing.
How to Make Baked Mediterranean Pasta
Step 1: Prep and Preheat
Get started by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). Meanwhile, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the penne pasta just until al dente. This ensures it will hold its shape and texture after baking. Drain the pasta and set it aside—you’re already halfway to deliciousness!
Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables
In a spacious skillet, warm up the olive oil over medium heat. Toss in the diced red onion and minced garlic, letting the aroma fill your kitchen as the onions become slightly translucent. Follow up with the bell peppers, zucchini, and cherry tomatoes, sauteing them until they’re a bit softened and vibrant, about 5 minutes. This step packs the dish with color and caramelized flavors.
Step 3: Build the Sauce
Sprinkle the veggies with salt, black pepper, oregano, and (if desired) a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes for a spicy touch. Pour in the canned diced tomatoes, along with the kalamata olives and capers. Let everything simmer gently for 5 minutes, allowing all the Mediterranean flavors to meld together while the sauce thickens slightly. Right before turning off the heat, stir in the fresh basil for a burst of herbal brightness.
Step 4: Assemble in the Baking Dish
Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish to prevent sticking. Combine the cooked penne and the savory vegetable sauce right in the dish, ensuring every piece of pasta gets beautifully coated. Give it a generous toss—you’ll notice how the colors and aromas already make this dish irresistible, even before the cheese goes on!
Step 5: Add Cheese and Bake
It’s time for the cheesy magic! Sprinkle a substantial layer of shredded mozzarella over the pasta mixture. Next, crumble feta cheese across the top for that extra creamy, tangy Mediterranean twist. Slide the casserole into your preheated oven, and bake uncovered for 20–25 minutes until the cheese is bubbly and beginning to turn golden brown at the edges.
Step 6: Serve and Enjoy
Carefully remove the casserole from the oven and let it cool for a couple of minutes—just enough time for the aromas to tease everyone to the table. Serve your Baked Mediterranean Pasta piping hot, making sure each plate gets a bit of cheesy topping and plenty of veggies. It’s a surefire crowd-pleaser!
How to Serve Baked Mediterranean Pasta
Garnishes
Finish your Baked Mediterranean Pasta with a flourish of fresh herbs—chopped basil, flat-leaf parsley, or even a light sprinkle of lemon zest. A drizzle of extra virgin olive oil just before serving amps up the gloss and brings out those Mediterranean flavors. If you like, toss a few extra crumbles of feta on top for color and irresistible salty bites.
Side Dishes
This Mediterranean pasta bake is a meal on its own, but it absolutely shines alongside a crisp green salad with lemon vinaigrette or some garlicky sautéed greens. Want to go classic? Serve it with warm, crusty bread or toasted pita to soak up every bit of the flavorful sauce. For a lighter pairing, a cucumber-tomato salad with a dash of vinegar hits just the right note.
Creative Ways to Present
Hosting friends or just wanting a fun spin? Spoon your Baked Mediterranean Pasta into individual ramekins for personalized servings, making each one feel special. Or, serve it family-style straight from the casserole dish, rustic and abundant. For a brunch or potluck twist, portion the bake into muffin tins for adorable, hand-held pasta cups that are sure to spark conversation!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover Baked Mediterranean Pasta keeps beautifully for up to four days when stored in an airtight container in the fridge. Its flavors deepen overnight, making reheated portions especially satisfying for lunch or a quick second dinner.
Freezing
If you want to plan ahead, this pasta bake is incredibly freezer-friendly! Assemble the casserole but hold off on baking; wrap tightly in foil, label, and freeze for up to three months. To use, thaw overnight in the fridge and bake as usual, tacking on a little extra time in the oven if needed.
Reheating
To revive that fresh-from-the-oven taste, reheat portions in a 350°F oven, covered with foil to lock in moisture, until hot and bubbly—about 15–20 minutes. For a quicker fix, the microwave works perfectly, just be sure to cover to prevent dryness and stir halfway through for even warmth.
FAQs
Can I add protein like chicken or shrimp?
Absolutely! Stir in 2 cups of cooked chicken, shrimp, or even chickpeas before baking for extra heartiness and a protein boost. Just make sure pre-cooked additions are well seasoned for the best flavor balance.
Is Baked Mediterranean Pasta gluten free?
As written, the recipe uses traditional penne pasta. However, you can easily make it gluten free by substituting your favorite gluten-free penne or another sturdy pasta shape. The rest of the ingredients are naturally gluten free.
Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?
Yes! You can assemble the pasta bake up to a day in advance, cover, and refrigerate until ready to bake. This makes it a stress-free option for busy nights or entertaining. Add a few extra minutes to the baking time if it’s going straight from the fridge to the oven.
What vegetables can I substitute?
This recipe is wonderfully flexible: feel free to swap in roasted eggplant, artichoke hearts, or spinach for any of the listed veggies. Use whatever is in season or what you have on hand—the Mediterranean spirit is all about adaptability.
How do I give the Baked Mediterranean Pasta a creamier texture?
If you crave extra richness, just stir in 1/2 cup of ricotta cheese (or a vegan alternative) to the pasta and vegetable mixture before topping with the cheese. This trick makes the bake extra luscious without being heavy.
Final Thoughts
You’re only a casserole dish away from an unforgettable dinner with Baked Mediterranean Pasta. Treat yourself to this colorful, flavor-packed bake—it’s easy, endlessly adaptable, and guaranteed to win over anyone who takes a bite. Give it a try soon, and don’t forget to share the love (and a second helping)!
Print
Baked Mediterranean Pasta Recipe
- Total Time: 55 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This Baked Mediterranean Pasta is a delicious vegetarian main course that combines penne pasta with a medley of colorful veggies, tangy olives, and creamy cheeses, all baked to golden perfection. With a hint of Mediterranean flavors, this pasta bake is satisfying and flavorful.
Ingredients
Pasta:
- 12 ounces penne pasta
Veggies:
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 medium red onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 red bell pepper, diced
- 1 yellow bell pepper, diced
- 1 zucchini, diced
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
Seasonings:
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
Other:
- 1 can (14.5 ounces) diced tomatoes
- 1/2 cup kalamata olives, sliced
- 1/4 cup capers, rinsed
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh basil
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
Instructions
- Preheat the oven: to 375°F (190°C). Cook pasta al dente, drain, and set aside.
- Sauté: onion and garlic in olive oil until softened.
- Add: bell peppers, zucchini, and cherry tomatoes; cook until tender.
- Season: with salt, pepper, oregano, red pepper flakes, add diced tomatoes, olives, and capers. Simmer to meld flavors.
- Combine: cooked pasta and vegetables in a baking dish. Top with mozzarella and feta.
- Bake: uncovered for 20–25 minutes until golden and bubbly.
- Serve: hot.
Notes
- For extra protein, add cooked chicken, shrimp, or chickpeas.
- Use whole wheat pasta for added fiber.
- For a creamier dish, mix in ricotta cheese before baking.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Mediterranean
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1/8 of recipe
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 6 g
- Sodium: 640 mg
- Fat: 14 g
- Saturated Fat: 6 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 38 g
- Fiber: 4 g
- Protein: 13 g
- Cholesterol: 25 mg
