If you’re craving a delightful dish that brings together the vibrant flavors of the Mediterranean with comforting baked pasta goodness, the Baked Mediterranean Pasta Recipe is your new best friend in the kitchen. Picture perfectly al dente rotini mingling with juicy cherry tomatoes, briny kalamata olives, tender artichoke hearts, and gooey melted mozzarella—all baked to bubbly perfection. This dish is a celebration of color, texture, and bold flavors that feels like a warm hug on a plate. Whether it’s a family dinner or a get-together with friends, this recipe is guaranteed to impress and satisfy in the most delicious way.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of this Baked Mediterranean Pasta Recipe lies in its simple yet essential ingredients that come together to create a symphony of flavors. Each component brings something special—whether it’s the tang of olives, the creaminess of mozzarella, or the fresh pop of tomatoes, every ingredient plays a crucial role in making this dish unforgettable.
- 12 ounces rotini pasta: The perfect shape for holding onto every bit of sauce and toppings.
- 2 tablespoons olive oil: Adds richness and helps sauté the vegetables beautifully.
- 1 medium onion, diced: Offers a sweet and savory base for the sauce.
- 3 cloves garlic, minced: Brings aromatic depth and a slight kick to the dish.
- 2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved: These burst with sweetness and provide vibrant color.
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning: A blend of herbs that infuses the pasta with authentic Mediterranean flair.
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste: Essential seasonings to enhance every flavor.
- 1 can (14 ounces) artichoke hearts, drained and quartered: Adds a tender, slightly nutty component that pairs perfectly with the olives.
- 1 cup kalamata olives, pitted and halved: Imparts a briny, tangy punch that Mediterranean cuisine is known for.
- 1 cup bocconcini or grated mozzarella cheese: Melts into creamy, cheesy perfection.
- Fresh parsley, chopped (optional, for garnish): Provides a fresh, herbal finish and beautiful presentation.
How to Make Baked Mediterranean Pasta Recipe
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare
Start by preheating your oven to 375 degrees Fahrenheit (190 degrees Celsius). This ensures it’s perfectly hot and ready when you finish assembling your delicious pasta.
Step 2: Cook the Pasta
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil, then add your rotini pasta. Cook it until it’s al dente—tender yet still firm to the bite—about six to eight minutes. Drain the pasta and set it aside, eager for the Mediterranean flavors that will soon join it.
Step 3: Sauté the Aromatics
Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Add the diced onion and sauté until it becomes translucent and soft, about three to four minutes. Next, toss in the minced garlic and let it cook for one more minute until fragrant. This aromatic base sets the scene for all the wonderful tastes to come.
Step 4: Add Tomatoes and Seasonings
Stir in the halved cherry tomatoes along with the Italian seasoning, salt, and freshly ground black pepper. Let the tomatoes soften and release their juicy sweetness for about three to four minutes, bringing a lovely freshness to the dish.
Step 5: Incorporate Artichokes and Olives
Next, add the quartered artichoke hearts and kalamata olives to the skillet. Cook everything together for two more minutes so the flavors meld and warm through, creating a savory Mediterranean medley.
Step 6: Combine Pasta and Veggies
Pour the vegetable mixture over the cooked pasta and toss gently to combine all those tastes and textures. Transfer this vibrant mixture to a 9 by 13-inch baking dish, spreading it out for even cooking.
Step 7: Add the Cheese
Sprinkle the top generously with bocconcini or your choice of grated mozzarella cheese. This layer is what will melt into gooey, bubbly goodness during baking and make your Baked Mediterranean Pasta Recipe truly irresistible.
Step 8: Bake to Perfection
Place the baking dish in the oven and bake for 20 to 25 minutes, until the cheese is melted and bubbling. For an extra golden, slightly crisp top, switch to broil for two to three minutes—but watch carefully to avoid burning!
Step 9: Rest and Garnish
Once out of the oven, let your creation rest for five minutes to settle. Then, sprinkle chopped fresh parsley on top for a pop of color and a fresh herbal note that brightens every bite.
How to Serve Baked Mediterranean Pasta Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh herbs like parsley or basil are perfect for garnishing, adding a lovely green contrast and a hint of freshness. A light drizzle of extra virgin olive oil or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes can elevate the dish even more, especially if you enjoy a little heat.
Side Dishes
This baked pasta pairs beautifully with a crisp green salad dressed simply with lemon and olive oil, or some warm, crusty bread that’s perfect for mopping up any remaining sauce. Roasted vegetables or even grilled chicken can round out the meal for extra protein.
Creative Ways to Present
Serve the Baked Mediterranean Pasta Recipe straight from the baking dish for a cozy family-style feel, or plate it individually and drizzle with balsamic glaze for a touch of elegance. For casual gatherings, consider placing it in mini ramekins for individual servings that wow your guests.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover baked Mediterranean pasta stores beautifully in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. The flavors may even deepen overnight, making it a great option for next-day meals.
Freezing
You can freeze this pasta by placing it in a freezer-safe container or heavy-duty zip-top bag. It keeps well for up to two months. Just thaw it overnight in the fridge before reheating to ensure even warming.
Reheating
Reheat leftovers gently in the oven at 350 degrees Fahrenheit or in a microwave-safe dish, covered, to keep the pasta moist and the cheese melty. If reheating from frozen, allow more time, and adding a splash of water or sauce can help revive the texture.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of pasta?
Absolutely! While rotini is ideal for catching the sauce and toppings, penne, rigatoni, or fusilli can work just as well in this dish.
Is there a vegetarian option?
This recipe is already vegetarian-friendly as is, but you can easily make it vegan by substituting the mozzarella with a plant-based cheese alternative.
Can I add protein to this pasta?
Yes, grilled chicken, shrimp, or even chickpeas can be added to boost the protein content and make the dish heartier.
What if I don’t have artichoke hearts?
They add a unique flavor, but you can skip them or substitute with marinated sun-dried tomatoes or roasted red peppers for a different Mediterranean twist.
How spicy is this dish?
The recipe as written is mild and perfect for all palates, but you can always add red pepper flakes or spicy sausage if you love a little kick.
Final Thoughts
This Baked Mediterranean Pasta Recipe truly captures the essence of Mediterranean flavors while delivering comforting, cheesy satisfaction in every bite. It’s effortless enough for weeknights yet impressive enough for guests. I can’t wait for you to try it and fall in love with this vibrant, wholesome meal that’s bound to become a staple in your recipe box.
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Baked Mediterranean Pasta Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Mediterranean
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This Baked Mediterranean Pasta is a flavorful and comforting dish featuring al dente rotini tossed with sautéed onions, garlic, cherry tomatoes, artichoke hearts, and kalamata olives. Topped with mozzarella cheese and baked until bubbly and golden, it’s a perfect family meal with vibrant Mediterranean flavors.
Ingredients
Pasta and Cheese
- 12 ounces (340 grams) rotini pasta
- 1 cup bocconcini (small mozzarella balls) or 1 cup grated mozzarella cheese
Vegetables and Seasoning
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 1 can (14 ounces/400 grams) artichoke hearts, drained and quartered
- 1 cup kalamata olives, pitted and halved
- Fresh parsley, chopped (optional, for garnish)
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) to prepare for baking the assembled pasta dish.
- Cook Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil over medium-high heat. Add the rotini pasta and cook until al dente, about 6-8 minutes. Drain and set aside to cool slightly.
- Sauté Onions and Garlic: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add diced onion and sauté until translucent, approximately 3-4 minutes. Add minced garlic and cook for an additional 1 minute until fragrant.
- Cook Tomatoes and Season: Stir in the halved cherry tomatoes, Italian seasoning, salt, and freshly ground black pepper. Cook the mixture until tomatoes start to soften, about 3-4 minutes, releasing their juices and flavors.
- Add Artichokes and Olives: Add the drained and quartered artichoke hearts along with the pitted and halved kalamata olives. Cook for another 2 minutes to warm through and let flavors meld.
- Combine and Transfer: Combine the vegetable mixture with the cooked rotini pasta, tossing thoroughly to evenly distribute ingredients. Transfer this mixture into a 9×13-inch (23×33 cm) baking dish.
- Add Cheese: Evenly sprinkle the bocconcini or grated mozzarella cheese over the top of the pasta mixture in the baking dish.
- Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbly. For a golden and slightly crisp top, switch to broil for 2-3 minutes at the end.
- Garnish and Serve: Remove from the oven and let the dish rest for 5 minutes. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley before serving to add a fresh, herbal note.
Notes
- You can substitute bocconcini with grated mozzarella or other melty cheese like provolone or fontina for variation.
- For a gluten-free version, use gluten-free rotini pasta.
- The dish can be prepared ahead and baked just before serving for convenience.
- To enhance flavor, add a splash of white wine while sautéing the tomatoes.
- Use fresh herbs like basil or oregano in addition to or instead of Italian seasoning for extra freshness.
