Save A cozy, savory-sweet pasta casserole featuring tangy feta, tart cranberries, earthy sage, and golden baked pasta—perfect for fall or holiday gatherings.
I have made this Cranberry-Sage Feta Pasta Bake several times during the holidays and my family always asks for seconds.
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.
- Prepare Sauce:
- Stir in tomato passata, vegetable broth, salt, and pepper. Simmer 5 minutes then remove from heat.
- Combine Ingredients:
- 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 This recipe always brings my family together around the table especially during the holidays when flavors feel even more special.
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.
Nutritional Information
Calories 435, Total Fat 14 g, Carbohydrates 59 g, Protein 15 g per serving
Save This Cranberry-Sage Feta Pasta Bake is a perfect balance of flavors that will quickly become a family favorite.
Recipe FAQs
- → What type of pasta works best?
Penne or rigatoni hold the sauce well and provide a satisfying texture for this bake.
- → Can I make this dish vegan?
Yes, use plant-based feta and mozzarella alternatives, or omit the mozzarella entirely.
- → How do cranberries affect the flavor?
Dried cranberries add a sweet-tart contrast that complements the savory feta and herbs.
- → Is it possible to add nuts to the dish?
Yes, sprinkling toasted walnuts or pecans on top before baking adds a pleasant crunch.
- → What herbs enhance this pasta bake?
Fresh or dried sage provides an earthy aroma, while parsley adds a fresh garnish after baking.