15-Minute Greek Pasta Bake Recipe

A creamy, Mediterranean-inspired pasta dish packed with veggies and flavor!

Course: Main Dish
Cuisine: Mediterranean
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 5 minutes
Total Time: 15 minutes
Servings: 8

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: A satisfying vegetarian dinner ready in just 15 minutes!
• Flavor-Packed: Creamy feta sauce coats the pasta, paired with tangy olives, artichoke hearts, and sweet tomatoes.
• Customizable: Perfect for using up pantry staples and fridge veggies.

Ingredients

• 16 oz. pasta of choice (reserve ½ cup pasta water)
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 6 cloves garlic, thinly sliced
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 8 oz. feta cheese (preferably in brine)
• ½ cup heavy cream
• 1 pint grape tomatoes, halved
• 1 (15 oz.) can quartered artichoke hearts, drained
• 1 (4.8 oz.) jar Kalamata olives, drained
• Garnish:
  • Fresh parsley, chopped
  • Grated Parmesan cheese
  • Crumbled feta

Instructions

1. Cook Pasta:
   Cook pasta until al dente, following package instructions. Reserve ½ cup of pasta water before draining.
2. Prepare Sauce Base:
   Heat olive oil in a large sauté pan over medium heat. Add garlic, oregano, thyme, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Cook for 1 minute, stirring frequently.
3. Create Creamy Sauce:
   Add feta cheese and heavy cream to the pan. Reduce heat to medium-low and stir for 2-3 minutes until the feta melts into a creamy sauce.
4. Combine Pasta and Veggies:
   Add the cooked pasta and half the reserved pasta water to the pan. Toss to coat the pasta evenly. Add tomatoes, artichoke hearts, and olives. Stir to combine, adding more pasta water if needed to reach desired consistency.
5. Season and Serve:
   Season with salt and pepper to taste. Garnish with parsley, Parmesan, and extra feta. Serve immediately and enjoy!

Tips for Perfect Greek Pasta

• Salt Your Pasta Water: Add 1-2 tablespoons of salt to boiling water for perfectly seasoned pasta.
• Cook to Al Dente: Check pasta 1-2 minutes before the shortest recommended cooking time. It should be tender but firm.
• Save the Pasta Water: This “liquid gold” helps create a silky sauce that clings to the noodles.
• Use Block Feta: Feta in brine melts better and adds more flavor than pre-crumbled options.
• Switch Up the Veggies: Sun-dried tomatoes, roasted red peppers, or spinach make great additions!

Serving Suggestions

• Pair with a Greek Salad: Complete the Mediterranean theme with a fresh, crisp salad.
• Top with Protein: Add grilled chicken, shrimp, or chickpeas for extra heartiness.
• Serve as a Side: Perfect alongside roasted lamb or baked fish.

FAQs

What is Mediterranean pasta?
Mediterranean pasta is a dish featuring fresh ingredients like artichokes, olives, tomatoes, and herbs in a light, creamy sauce.

Can I make this pasta ahead of time?
Yes, but it’s best served fresh. If making ahead, store the pasta and sauce separately and combine when reheating.

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** Nutritional information provided here is estimated and for guidance only. Please refer my Recipe Disclaimer for more details.