Description
Mediterranean Baked Spaghetti
Ingredients
12 oz spaghetti
3 cups marinara sauce
1 cup cherry tomatoes
1/2 cup Kalamata olives, halved
1/2 cup green olives
1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
1/4 cup chopped fresh basil (plus more for garnish)
2 tbsp olive oil
1 tsp dried oregano
Salt and pepper to taste
Directions
Cook the Pasta:
Cook spaghetti according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
Prepare the Base:
Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Spread 1 cup of marinara sauce in the bottom of a baking dish.
Layer the Ingredients:
Add cooked spaghetti to the dish and toss with the remaining marinara sauce, oregano, and olive oil.
Top It Off:
Scatter cherry tomatoes, Kalamata olives, green olives, and crumbled feta over the spaghetti.
Bake:
Bake uncovered for 20–25 minutes, or until the tomatoes are softened and the edges are bubbling.
Garnish and Serve:
Remove from oven, garnish with fresh basil leaves, and serve hot.
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Total Time: 40 minutes
Servings: 4–6
Calories: 320 kcal per serving
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Step-by-Step Guide
Follow these detailed instructions for perfect results every time. First, ensure your oven rack is in the center position and preheat to 375°F (190°C). While the oven heats, cook your spaghetti in a large pot of well-salted water until al dente, as it will continue cooking in the oven. Drain but do not rinse; the starch helps the sauce adhere. In your 9×13 inch baking dish, spread the base layer of marinara sauce evenly. Add the drained pasta back to the pot you cooked it in (off the heat) and toss with the remaining sauce, olive oil, and dried oregano. Transfer this mixture to the baking dish. Evenly distribute the cherry tomatoes (halved if you prefer), both types of olives, and finally the crumbled feta cheese. Bake on the center rack until the cheese is lightly golden and the sauce is bubbling at the edges.
Serving Suggestions
This hearty baked spaghetti is a complete meal on its own, but it pairs beautifully with simple sides. For a true Mediterranean spread, serve it with a crisp green salad dressed with lemon vinaigrette and a side of warm, crusty bread for dipping. To complement the salty feta and olives, consider a glass of chilled Pinot Grigio or a light-bodied red like a Chianti. For a protein boost, top individual servings with grilled shrimp or shredded rotisserie chicken.
How-to Summary
- Cook spaghetti al dente and drain.
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Spread 1 cup sauce in a baking dish.
- Toss pasta with remaining sauce, oil, and oregano.
- Transfer to dish and top with tomatoes, olives, and feta.
- Bake uncovered for 20-25 minutes until bubbly.
- Garnish with fresh basil and serve.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this dish ahead of time? Yes, assemble the dish completely, cover tightly, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. Add 5-10 minutes to the baking time when cooking from cold.
What can I use instead of feta cheese? For a similar tangy and salty profile, try crumbled goat cheese or ricotta salata. For a milder flavor, fresh mozzarella pearls work well.
Is it okay to use a different pasta shape? Absolutely. Rigatoni, penne, or fusilli are excellent choices as their shapes hold sauce and bake wonderfully.
How do I store and reheat leftovers? Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat portions in the microwave or in a covered oven-safe dish at 350°F until warmed through.
Can I add other vegetables? Definitely. Sautéed spinach, roasted red peppers, or sliced artichoke hearts would be delicious additions. Just ensure any wet vegetables are drained well.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Overcooking the pasta initially: Always cook to al dente, as it softens further during baking.
- Using a watery sauce: Opt for a thick, robust marinara to prevent a soggy final dish.
- Skipping the oil toss: Coating the pasta in olive oil helps prevent clumping and adds flavor.
- Overcrowding the dish: Use a large enough baking dish so the top layer can crisp slightly.
- Forgetting to garnish: The fresh basil added after baking provides a crucial burst of freshness.
Conclusion
This Mediterranean Baked Spaghetti is a vibrant, flavorful twist on a classic comfort food. It masterfully combines the tang of feta, the brininess of olives, and the sweetness of tomatoes into a simple yet impressive one-dish meal. Perfect for busy weeknights or casual entertaining, it’s a reliable recipe that delivers maximum taste with minimal effort. Give it a try and bring a taste of the Mediterranean to your table tonight.