Baked Mediterranean Pasta

Baked Mediterranean Pasta transforms simple ingredients into a stunning dish that brings the flavors of the Mediterranean to your dinner table in under an hour. This colorful pasta bake combines tender rotini, juicy cherry tomatoes, briny olives, and creamy mozzarella for a meal that tastes like sunshine. Perfect for busy weeknights or casual gatherings, this recipe delivers restaurant-quality results with minimal effort.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Simple Ingredients: Everything you need is easy to find at your local grocery store.
• One-Dish Wonder: Less cleanup means more time to enjoy your meal.
• Crowd-Pleaser: The blend of Mediterranean flavors appeals to both kids and adults.
• Make-Ahead Friendly: Prep in advance and bake when ready to eat.
• Versatile: Serve as a main dish or hearty side.

What You Need to Know Before You Start

Prep Time & Cook Time:

• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 45 minutes
• Total Time: About 65 minutes

Servings: This recipe serves 6-8 people as a main course. Planning a party? Double the batch and use a larger baking dish.

Difficulty: Easy enough for beginner cooks, with results that impress even experienced home chefs.

Required Kitchen Tools

• Large pot for boiling pasta
• Colander
• Large skillet or saute pan
• 9×13 inch baking dish
• Wooden spoon or spatula
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Sharp knife and cutting board

Ingredients for Baked Mediterranean Pasta

This dish celebrates fresh Mediterranean flavors with ingredients that work together beautifully. The rotini pasta catches all the delicious sauce, while the vegetables and cheese create layers of texture and taste. Here’s what you’ll need:

• Rotini Pasta: The spiral shape holds onto sauce and small ingredients perfectly.
• Olive Oil: Extra virgin olive oil adds authentic Mediterranean flavor.
• Onion: Provides a sweet, savory base for the sauce.
• Garlic: Fresh cloves bring aromatic depth to the dish.
• Cherry Tomatoes: These burst with sweet, tangy juice as they cook.
• Italian Seasoning: A blend of herbs that ties everything together.
• Salt and Ground Black Pepper: Essential for bringing out the natural flavors.
• Artichoke Hearts: Add a tender, slightly tangy element.
• Kalamata Olives: Bring a briny, rich taste that defines Mediterranean cooking.
• Bocconcini Mozzarella Balls: These small cheese balls melt into creamy pockets throughout the pasta.
• Fresh Parsley: Adds brightness and a pop of color.
• Parmesan Cheese: A salty, nutty finish that completes the dish.

Variations for Baked Mediterranean Pasta

• Add Protein: Mix in cooked chicken, shrimp, or white beans for extra heartiness.
• Try Different Pasta: Penne, fusilli, or farfalle work just as well as rotini.
• Boost the Veggies: Include spinach, zucchini, or roasted red peppers.
• Make It Spicy: Add red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños for heat.
• Change the Cheese: Swap bocconcini for feta or use a mix of both.
• Go Vegan: Use dairy-free mozzarella and skip the Parmesan, or use nutritional yeast instead.

How to Make Baked Mediterranean Pasta Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Cook the Pasta

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the rotini and cook according to package directions until al dente. Drain and set aside.

2. Prepare the Vegetables

While the pasta cooks, dice the onion and mince the garlic. Halve the cherry tomatoes. Drain and roughly chop the artichoke hearts. Slice the kalamata olives if they are whole.

3. Sauté the Base

Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the diced onion and cook for 3-4 minutes until softened. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.

4. Build the Sauce

Add the cherry tomatoes to the skillet. Season with Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper. Cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the tomatoes start to break down and release their juices.

5. Combine Everything

Add the cooked pasta, artichoke hearts, and kalamata olives to the skillet. Toss everything together until well combined. Fold in half of the bocconcini mozzarella balls and half of the chopped parsley.

6. Transfer and Top

Preheat your oven to 375°F. Transfer the pasta mixture to a greased 9×13 inch baking dish. Scatter the remaining mozzarella balls on top and sprinkle generously with grated Parmesan cheese.

7. Bake to Perfection

Place the baking dish in the preheated oven. Bake for 20-25 minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbly, with golden spots on top.

8. Finish and Serve

Remove from the oven and let rest for 5 minutes. Garnish with the remaining fresh parsley before serving.

Serving and Decoration

Serve this Baked Mediterranean Pasta straight from the baking dish for a rustic presentation. The melted cheese and colorful vegetables create an appealing look that needs little additional decoration. Add a sprinkle of extra Parmesan and fresh parsley just before serving for a restaurant-quality finish.

How to Serve Baked Mediterranean Pasta

This versatile dish works in many settings:

• As a Main Course: Pair with a crisp green salad and crusty bread.
• For Gatherings: Serve buffet-style alongside grilled meats and roasted vegetables.
• With Soup: Make it a complete meal with a light tomato or vegetable soup.
• With Wine: A crisp white wine or light red complements the Mediterranean flavors.
• For Lunch: Pack leftovers in containers for easy meals throughout the week.

Storing Baked Mediterranean Pasta

• In the Refrigerator: Store cooled leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
• For Freezing: This pasta freezes well for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
• Reheating: Warm in a 350°F oven for 15-20 minutes until heated through, or microwave individual portions for 2-3 minutes.

Tips and Tricks for Success

• Salt Your Pasta Water: Use enough salt so the water tastes like the sea. This seasons the pasta from the inside out.
• Don’t Overcook the Pasta: Since it will bake in the oven, cook the pasta just until al dente.
• Fresh Ingredients Matter: Use the best quality olive oil, olives, and cheese you can find for superior flavor.
• Let It Rest: Allowing the baked pasta to sit for 5 minutes before serving helps it set and makes serving easier.
• Customize to Taste: Adjust the amount of olives, artichokes, or cheese based on your preferences.
• Make It Ahead: Assemble the dish completely, cover with foil, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking. Add 10 extra minutes to the baking time if starting from cold.

Nutrition

Nutrient	Per Serving (1/8 of recipe)
Calories	385
Total Fat	16g
Saturated Fat	6g
Cholesterol	28mg
Sodium	520mg
Total Carbohydrates	45g
Dietary Fiber	4g
Sugars	5g
Protein	15g
Vitamin A	12% DV
Vitamin C	18% DV
Calcium	22% DV
Iron	10% DV

Note: Nutritional values are approximate and may vary based on specific ingredients used.

Baked Mediterranean Pasta FAQs

Can I use dried herbs instead of Italian seasoning?
Yes. Use 1/2 teaspoon each of dried basil, oregano, and thyme as a substitute.

What if I can’t find bocconcini?
Regular mozzarella works fine. Cut it into small cubes or use shredded mozzarella instead.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Absolutely. Assemble everything in the baking dish, cover with foil, and refrigerate up to 24 hours. Bake when ready, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.

How do I keep the pasta from drying out?
Make sure your tomato mixture has enough liquid. You can add a splash of pasta cooking water or vegetable broth if needed before baking.

Is this recipe vegetarian?
Yes, this dish is vegetarian. To make it vegan, use dairy-free cheese alternatives.

Conclusion

Baked Mediterranean Pasta brings together the best flavors of Mediterranean cuisine in one satisfying dish. The combination of tender pasta, sweet roasted tomatoes, briny olives, and melted cheese creates a meal that feels special but requires minimal effort. Whether you’re cooking for family dinner or entertaining friends, this recipe delivers delicious results every time. The best part is how easily you can adapt it to your tastes or what you have on hand. Give it a try and let the flavors of the Mediterranean brighten your table.