Name: Baked Mediterranean Pasta Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 40 min
Cuisine: Mediterranean
Ingredients: 1 lb. rotini pasta; 1/4 cup olive oil; 1 medium onion, diced; 1 tablespoon garlic, minced; 3 cups cherry tomatoes, halved; 1/2 teaspoon Italian seasoning; 1/2 teaspoon salt (or to taste); 1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper (or to taste); 1 (12 oz.) can artichoke hearts, drained and cut into bite-sized pieces; 1 cup pitted kalamata olives, halved; 200 grams bocconcini (mozzarella balls), halved (or more for extra cheesy topping); 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, finely chopped (optional, for serving); Parmesan cheese, grated (optional, for serving)

Jump to Recipe· 4.1 from 12 reviews

If you’ve ever dreamed of a comforting pasta dish that’s bursting with vibrant flavors and easy to whip up, this Baked Mediterranean Pasta Recipe is going to steal your heart. It brings together the freshness of ripe cherry tomatoes, the briny pop of kalamata olives, tender artichoke hearts, and gooey melted mozzarella, all baked to golden perfection. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or cooking for yourself, this dish feels like a warm hug on a plate — effortlessly delicious and packed with the taste of the Mediterranean sunshine.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The image shows two black pans on a white marbled surface. The first pan is filled with cooked cherry tomatoes that are red and yellow, some whole and some soft, mixed with small pieces of garlic and herbs in a thin oily sauce. The second pan contains four layers arranged side by side: pale beige cooked spiral pasta takes up most of the right side, next to it is a layer of dark purple black olives in the middle, on the left are pieces of light cooked chicken, and below the olives and chicken is a mix of cooked red and yellow cherry tomatoes similar to the first pan. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

The beauty of this Baked Mediterranean Pasta Recipe lies in how simple the ingredients are, yet each one plays a crucial role in crafting the perfect harmony of flavors and textures. From the olive oil that adds richness to the fresh parsley that brings brightness, every element comes together seamlessly.

Rotini pasta: A spiral shape that holds sauce beautifully and offers a fun bite.
Olive oil: Adds a fruity richness that elevates the dish with authentic Mediterranean flavor.
Onion, diced: Provides sweetness and a savory base when sautéed.
Minced garlic: Brings aromatic warmth to every bite, never overpowering.
Cherry tomatoes, halved: Burst with juice and freshness, balancing richness with acidity.
Italian seasoning: A blend of herbs that effortlessly ties all the ingredients together.
Salt and black pepper: Essential for seasoning and enhancing flavors naturally.
Artichoke hearts, canned and chopped: Add a tender, slightly tangy element true to Mediterranean cuisine.
Kalamata olives, pitted and halved: Offer a briny punch that’s both savory and complex.
Bocconcini mozzarella balls: Melt into gooey cheesy pockets, making every bite heavenly.
Fresh parsley, chopped (optional): A sprinkle of bright green that adds freshness and color at the end.
Grated Parmesan cheese (optional): A salty topping to finish the dish with an extra layer of umami.

How to Make Baked Mediterranean Pasta Recipe

Step 1: Preheat and Prepare Pasta

Start by preheating your oven to 375 degrees Fahrenheit to ensure it’s ready when your pasta mixture is assembled. Then, bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil and cook the rotini pasta until it’s al dente—tender yet still with a slight bite—usually about 6 to 8 minutes. Drain it thoroughly and keep it warm in the pot, preparing for the flavorful sauce.

Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics

While the pasta cooks, heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat until you see it start to shimmer. Toss in the diced onion and minced garlic, stirring occasionally; let them cook until the onion softens and becomes translucent, about 3 to 4 minutes. This step builds the flavor foundation for the entire dish.

Step 3: Add Tomatoes and Seasonings

Next, add the halved cherry tomatoes directly into the skillet. Sprinkle in the Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper, then stir everything together. Let the tomatoes cook for a couple of minutes until they just begin to soften, releasing a deliciously bright, juicy aroma that signals your dish is coming alive.

Step 4: Combine Pasta and Mediterranean Ingredients

Now, toss the cooked pasta, drained artichoke hearts, and halved kalamata olives into the skillet with the tomato mixture. Mix everything well to ensure every piece of pasta is coated with the tasty blend. This combination captures the essence of the Mediterranean region in every forkful.

Step 5: Assemble and Bake

Transfer the pasta mixture into a 9×13-inch casserole pan, spreading it evenly. Nestle the bocconcini mozzarella balls right on top, letting them peek through. Slide the pan into your preheated oven and bake for 20 to 25 minutes until the cheese on top melts and turns a gorgeous golden brown. Let it rest for about 15 minutes before serving to allow flavors to meld beautifully.

How to Serve Baked Mediterranean Pasta Recipe

The image shows a white speckled bowl filled with a one-layer pasta dish made of light golden rotini. Scattered inside the pasta are bright red and orange cherry tomatoes, along with dark purple black olives. The dish is sprinkled with small green parsley pieces and light shreds of cheese on top. The bowl sits on a white marbled surface with some green herb pieces scattered around. A beige textured cloth is draped near the bowl. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

A quick sprinkle of finely chopped fresh parsley adds a burst of green color and a refreshing herbal note that brightens the richness of the baked pasta. For cheese lovers, a dusting of freshly grated Parmesan cheese on top offers that savory, nutty finish that perfectly rounds out the dish.

Side Dishes

This baked pasta shines wonderfully alongside a crisp green salad dressed with lemon vinaigrette or warm, crusty bread to soak up those Mediterranean juices. Roasted vegetables such as asparagus, zucchini, or bell peppers also complement the flavors and add extra nutrients and texture to the meal.

Creative Ways to Present

For a fun twist, try serving this dish family-style right from the casserole dish, encouraging everyone to dig in and share the love. Alternatively, portion it into individual ramekins, which make for a charming presentation for dinner parties or meal prepping with style. A drizzle of extra olive oil or a few whole basil leaves can take the presentation from simple to stunning.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover Baked Mediterranean Pasta Recipe chills beautifully in the fridge for up to four days. Store it in an airtight container to preserve the freshness and keep the cheesy topping moist and inviting for the next meal.

Freezing

This dish freezes well, making it an excellent option for meal prep. Allow it to cool completely, then transfer to freezer-safe containers. It can be frozen for up to two months. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, thaw overnight in the refrigerator for best results.

Reheating

Reheat leftovers in an oven at 350 degrees Fahrenheit until warmed through to retain the lovely baked texture. If you’re in a hurry, microwave reheats nicely too, though the oven method keeps the top perfectly melty and golden.

FAQs

Can I use different types of pasta for this Baked Mediterranean Pasta Recipe?

Absolutely! While rotini is great for holding the sauce, penne, rigatoni, or even fusilli work perfectly well. Just remember to cook the pasta until al dente to maintain the right texture after baking.

Is it possible to make this recipe vegetarian or vegan?

This recipe is naturally vegetarian thanks to the mozzarella, but for a vegan twist, swap the bocconcini and Parmesan for plant-based cheeses or nutritional yeast. You could also add extra veggies like spinach or mushrooms for more heartiness.

How spicy is this Baked Mediterranean Pasta Recipe?

This dish leans towards mild and flavorful rather than spicy, but you can always add crushed red pepper flakes or a dash of cayenne pepper when cooking the tomatoes if you want a little kick.

Can I prepare this dish ahead of time and bake later?

Yes, you can mix all ingredients except the cheese and refrigeration overnight. Before baking, add the bocconcini and bake as instructed. This makes dinner prep a breeze!

What wine pairs well with Baked Mediterranean Pasta Recipe?

A crisp, refreshing white such as Sauvignon Blanc or a light red like Pinot Noir complements the rich yet fresh flavors beautifully. If you prefer non-alcoholic options, sparkling water with lemon makes for a lovely palate cleanser.

Final Thoughts

If you’re looking for a dish that feels both comforting and vibrant, the Baked Mediterranean Pasta Recipe is your new go-to. It’s a perfect blend of fresh, savory, and cheesy flavors that’s sure to bring joy to your dinner table. Give it a try one evening, and I’m confident it will become a beloved favorite in your recipe rotation just like it has in mine.