Asparagus and Feta Pasta Bake

Name: Asparagus and Feta Pasta Bake
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 300g pasta (e.g., penne or fusilli); 250g fresh asparagus, trimmed and cut into 2-inch pieces; 200g feta cheese, crumbled; 1 cup heavy cream; 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 3 garlic cloves, minced; 1 teaspoon dried oregano; Salt and pepper to taste; Fresh parsley, for garnish

Highlighted under: Comfort Recipes

When I first tried my hand at this Asparagus and Feta Pasta Bake, I was amazed by how effortlessly it came together. The vibrant colors of the asparagus and the creamy feta create a dish that's not only pleasing to the eye but also bursting with flavors. I love how the crispy baked top contrasts with the tender pasta underneath. Each bite offers a delightful combination of textures that keeps me coming back for seconds. This recipe is perfect for a cozy dinner or a potluck, showcasing seasonal produce in a surprisingly simple way.

Created by

Emily

Last updated on 2026-02-04T18:21:28.438Z

As I prepared the ingredients for my Asparagus and Feta Pasta Bake, I realized that the secret to making it truly special lies in the quality of the feta cheese. I chose a creamy and crumbly variety, which melted beautifully into the pasta. During the cooking process, I made sure to lightly sauté the asparagus just until tender, as this retained its bright green color and added a fresh crunch. The aromatic herbs I added made the whole dish irresistible.

Once the pasta was mixed with the sauce and baked, a golden crust formed on top that was an absolute joy to break into. For added flavor, I recommend scattering some extra feta and herbs on top before serving. This way, each scoop is packed with flavor from the very first bite. Trust me; your taste buds will thank you!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
A delightful balance of creamy and fresh flavors
Perfectly baked with a satisfying crispy topping
Easily customizable with seasonal vegetables

Understanding the Ingredients

The choice of pasta can significantly affect the texture of your Asparagus and Feta Pasta Bake. While penne and fusilli are excellent options due to their ability to hold onto the creamy sauce and chunks of feta, you can also experiment with other shapes like rigatoni or farfalle. Just ensure you cook them al dente to prevent mushiness once baked.

Feta cheese adds a tangy and creamy element to the dish. For a milder flavor, consider using a block of feta rather than crumbled, as it can be mixed more thoroughly into the pasta. Additionally, if you wish to reduce the saltiness of feta, you can soak it in water for a few hours prior to crumbling.

Perfecting the Bake

To achieve that coveted crispy topping, make sure to sprinkle a generous amount of Parmesan and any remaining feta cheese evenly across the surface before baking. The higher fat content in these cheeses will encourage browning. For an extra crunch, you can mix in some breadcrumbs or Panko before adding the cheese topping, giving the dish an irresistible texture contrast.

Baking time can vary depending on your oven and the size of your baking dish. Keep an eye on the pasta bake as it approaches the 25-minute mark, looking for a golden crust with bubbling edges. If the top isn’t achieving the desired color, consider broiling it for an additional 2-3 minutes for a perfect finish.

Storage and Serving Suggestions

This Asparagus and Feta Pasta Bake stores well in the fridge for up to three days. For best results, reheat individual portions in the microwave at medium power to avoid drying out, or cover and reheat in the oven at 175°C (350°F) until warmed through, about 15-20 minutes. It can also be frozen, but consider leaving out the crispy topping and adding it fresh when reheating for that just-baked appeal.

Served straight from the oven, this dish pairs beautifully with a light salad or crusty bread to balance the creamy pasta. If you’re looking to add protein, grilled chicken or shrimp can make a delightful addition, enhancing both the flavor and nutrition of this comforting bake.

Ingredients

Gather these fresh ingredients to prepare your delicious Asparagus and Feta Pasta Bake:

Ingredients

300g pasta (e.g., penne or fusilli)
250g fresh asparagus, trimmed and cut into 2-inch pieces
200g feta cheese, crumbled
1 cup heavy cream
1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
2 tablespoons olive oil
3 garlic cloves, minced
1 teaspoon dried oregano
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh parsley, for garnish

With these ingredients ready, you are set to create a delicious Asparagus and Feta Pasta Bake!

Instructions

Follow these steps to achieve a perfect pasta bake:

Cook the Pasta

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

Prepare the Asparagus

In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the asparagus and sauté for about 5 minutes until tender but still vibrant green. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.

Combine Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked pasta, sautéed asparagus, heavy cream, crumbled feta, Parmesan cheese, oregano, salt, and pepper. Mix well to ensure everything is evenly coated.

Bake the Dish

Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F). Transfer the pasta mixture to a greased baking dish, and sprinkle with any remaining feta and Parmesan cheese. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the top is golden brown.

Serve and Enjoy

Once baked, remove from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes. Garnish with fresh parsley before serving. Enjoy your delicious Asparagus and Feta Pasta Bake!

This dish can be enjoyed hot or allowed to cool and reheated for later meals. Perfect for meal prep!

Pro Tips

Feel free to add roasted cherry tomatoes or spinach for extra flavor and nutrition. Pair this with a light salad for a refreshing meal.

Ingredient Variations

While asparagus shines in this dish, feel free to swap in other seasonal vegetables like zucchini, spinach, or broccoli. Just make sure to adjust cooking times accordingly; for example, broccoli florets may need a few extra minutes of sautéing to become tender. Mixing different colors not only enhances the visual appeal but also boosts the nutritional value.

For a lighter version, consider substituting heavy cream with a mixture of Greek yogurt and a splash of milk. This option will still provide creaminess but with fewer calories and added protein. Additionally, using whole-grain pasta can increase fiber content without sacrificing flavor.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

If you find that your pasta bake becomes too dry, it could be due to overcooking the pasta. Always cook it al dente, as it will absorb some liquid while baking. Alternatively, you can add a splash of broth or additional cream right before baking to hydrate the dish if it seems too dry at that stage.

Should the top of your bake brown too quickly, consider covering it loosely with aluminum foil during the last few minutes. This will allow the interior to continue cooking without burning the top. Testing a piece with a fork can help gauge whether it’s cooked through, with the pasta being firm yet tender.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen asparagus?

While fresh asparagus gives the best results, you can use frozen if that's what you have. Just remember to thaw and drain excess moisture before using it.

→ How can I make this dish vegetarian?

This recipe is already vegetarian as it does not include meat. However, ensure the type of pasta used is also vegetarian-friendly.

→ Can I make this ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare the mixture a day in advance, store it in the fridge, and then bake it just before serving.

→ What can I serve with this pasta bake?

This dish pairs wonderfully with a side salad or some garlic bread for a complete meal.