Save A cozy, savory-sweet pasta casserole featuring tangy feta, tart cranberries, earthy sage, and golden baked pasta—perfect for fall or holiday gatherings.
This recipe quickly became a fall favorite in my family, especially during holiday gatherings when comfort food is a must.
Ingredients
- Pasta: 300 g (10 oz) penne or rigatoni, 1 tbsp olive oil
- Vegetables & Aromatics: 1 medium yellow onion finely chopped, 2 cloves garlic minced, 1 tbsp fresh sage finely chopped (or 1 tsp dried)
- Sauce: 400 ml (1 2/3 cups) tomato passata or crushed tomatoes, 120 ml (1/2 cup) vegetable broth, 1/2 tsp salt, 1/4 tsp black pepper
- Cheese & Toppings: 150 g (5 oz) feta cheese crumbled (or plant-based feta for vegan), 80 g (1/2 cup) dried cranberries, 50 g (1/2 cup) grated mozzarella optional for extra meltiness, 2 tbsp fresh parsley chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
- Preheat oven:
- Preheat oven to 200°C (400°F). Lightly grease a medium baking dish.
- Cook pasta:
- Cook pasta in salted boiling water until just al dente (about 2 minutes less than package instructions). Drain and toss with 1 tbsp olive oil.
- Sauté aromatics:
- Meanwhile, heat a skillet over medium heat. Sauté onion in a splash of olive oil until soft (about 5 minutes). Add garlic and sage, cook 1 minute more.
- Make sauce:
- Stir in tomato passata vegetable broth salt and pepper. Simmer 5 minutes then remove from heat.
- Combine:
- Combine cooked pasta sauce half the feta half the cranberries and if using half the mozzarella in a large bowl. Mix gently.
- Assemble:
- Transfer mixture to prepared baking dish. Top with remaining feta cranberries and mozzarella.
- Bake:
- Bake uncovered for 20 25 minutes until bubbling and golden.
- Rest and garnish:
- Let rest 5 minutes. Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.
Save My family enjoys gathering around this warm dish especially during chilly evenings sharing stories and laughter.
Notes
For a vegan version use plant-based feta and omit mozzarella or use vegan cheese. Try whole-wheat pasta for extra fiber. Excellent with a green salad and a glass of dry white wine.
Required Tools
Large pot Skillet Baking dish medium approx 2 L/2 qt Mixing bowl Knife and cutting board
Allergen Information
Contains Wheat (gluten) milk (dairy from feta and mozzarella). For allergies use gluten-free pasta and dairy-free cheese alternatives. Always check ingredient labels for hidden allergens.
Save This pasta bake is a delightful blend of sweet salty and savory flavors sure to please any crowd.
Cooking Guide
- → What type of pasta works best?
Penne or rigatoni hold the sauce well and maintain texture after baking.
- → Can I replace feta with a vegan cheese?
Yes, plant-based feta substitutes can be used for a vegan-friendly version.
- → How can I add extra crunch to the dish?
Sprinkle chopped walnuts or pecans on top before baking for added texture.
- → Is whole-wheat pasta suitable here?
Whole-wheat pasta can be used to increase fiber and maintain the dish's structure.
- → How long should the bake rest before serving?
Allow the pasta bake to rest for about 5 minutes to let flavors settle and make serving easier.