Pin A cozy, savory-sweet pasta casserole featuring tangy feta, tart cranberries, earthy sage, and golden baked pasta—perfect for fall or holiday gatherings.
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 ingredients:
- Combine cooked pasta, sauce, half the feta, half the cranberries, and (if using) half the mozzarella in a large bowl Mix gently.
- Prepare for baking:
- Transfer mixture to prepared baking dish Top with remaining feta, cranberries, and mozzarella.
- Bake:
- Bake uncovered for 20 25 minutes, until bubbling and golden.
- Finish:
- Let rest 5 minutes Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.
Pin 
Pin Recipe FAQ
- → What pasta type works best?
Penne or rigatoni hold the sauce well and provide a sturdy texture that complements the creamy feta and tart cranberries.
- → Can I make this dish vegan?
Yes, use plant-based feta and vegan mozzarella or omit cheese entirely for a dairy-free version with similar flavor balance.
- → How do cranberries affect the flavor?
Dried cranberries add a sweet and tart contrast that brightens the savory and herbaceous notes from sage and feta.
- → Is it possible to add nuts for texture?
Adding walnuts or pecans before baking gives a pleasant crunch and complements the creamy and tangy elements.
- → What side dishes pair well with this pasta?
A simple green salad or roasted vegetables balance this rich bake, and a dry white wine enhances the flavors further.