Get ready to fall in love with a dish that took the internet by storm—Baked Feta Pasta! This creamy, tangy, and incredibly easy recipe is a true crowd-pleaser. With just a handful of ingredients—feta cheese, cherry tomatoes, garlic, olive oil, and your favorite pasta—you can create a rich and flavorful sauce that coats every bite perfectly. As the feta bakes and melts, it blends with the roasted tomatoes to form a velvety, cheesy delight. Quick to make and packed with flavor, this dish is perfect for weeknight dinners or last-minute guests. One pan, minimal effort, and maximum taste!
Why You’ll Love This BAKED FETA PASTA
This BAKED FETA PASTA is a game-changer for anyone who craves deliciousness without the fuss. It’s incredibly easy to whip up, taking just 40 minutes from start to finish. The flavors meld beautifully as the feta and tomatoes roast, creating a creamy sauce that clings to every pasta shape. Plus, it’s a one-dish wonder, making cleanup a breeze. Perfect for busy weeknights or impressing guests, this dish is sure to become a favorite!
Ingredients for BAKED FETA PASTA
Gathering the right ingredients is the first step to creating this creamy masterpiece. Here’s what you’ll need:
Pasta: Choose between penne or fusilli for the perfect bite. Both hold the sauce beautifully.
Feta Cheese: A block of feta is essential. It melts into a creamy delight, adding richness to the dish.
Cherry Tomatoes: These little gems burst with flavor when roasted, providing sweetness and acidity.
Olive Oil: A good quality olive oil enhances the dish’s flavor and helps the tomatoes roast perfectly.
Garlic: Minced garlic adds depth and aroma, making the dish irresistible.
Dried Oregano: This herb brings a Mediterranean flair, complementing the feta and tomatoes beautifully.
Red Pepper Flakes: Optional, but they add a nice kick if you enjoy a bit of heat.
Salt and Pepper: Essential for seasoning, these staples elevate the flavors of all the ingredients.
Fresh Basil Leaves: For garnish, they add a pop of color and freshness to the final dish.
Grated Parmesan Cheese: Optional, but a sprinkle on top adds an extra layer of flavor.
For those looking to boost nutrition, consider adding cooked chickpeas or spinach. You can also experiment with other vegetables like bell peppers or zucchini for added flavor and nutrition. Exact quantities for each ingredient can be found at the bottom of the article, ready for printing!
How to Make BAKED FETA PASTA
Creating this BAKED FETA PASTA is a breeze, and I promise it’ll become a go-to recipe in your kitchen. Follow these simple steps, and you’ll have a creamy, delicious meal ready in no time!
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
First things first, preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). This ensures that everything bakes evenly and the flavors meld beautifully.
Step 2: Prepare the Tomato Mixture
In a large baking dish, combine the cherry tomatoes, olive oil, minced garlic, dried oregano, red pepper flakes (if you like a little heat), salt, and pepper. Toss well to coat the tomatoes. This mixture is where the magic begins!
Step 3: Add Feta Cheese
Now, place the block of feta cheese right in the center of the tomato mixture. Drizzle a little more olive oil on top of the feta and season it with salt and pepper. This will help the feta become creamy and flavorful as it bakes.
Step 4: Bake the Dish
Pop the baking dish into your preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes. You’ll know it’s ready when the tomatoes are bursting and the feta is golden and soft. The aroma will be irresistible!
Step 5: Cook the Pasta
While the feta and tomatoes are baking, cook your pasta according to the package instructions until it’s al dente. Drain it and set it aside. This step is crucial for getting that perfect texture.
Step 6: Combine Ingredients
Once the feta and tomatoes are done, carefully remove the baking dish from the oven. Use a fork to mash the feta and mix it with the tomatoes until creamy. This is where the sauce comes together, and it’s a sight to behold!
Step 7: Toss with Pasta
Add the cooked pasta to the baking dish and toss everything together until the pasta is well coated with the sauce. Make sure every piece of pasta gets that creamy goodness!
Step 8: Garnish and Serve
Finally, garnish your dish with fresh basil leaves and sprinkle with grated Parmesan cheese if desired. Serve immediately and watch everyone dig in with delight!
Tips for Success
Use high-quality feta for the creamiest texture and best flavor.
Don’t skip the olive oil; it helps the tomatoes roast and enhances the dish.
Feel free to adjust the garlic and red pepper flakes to suit your taste.
For a heartier meal, add cooked chickpeas or spinach before mixing.
Always taste and adjust seasoning before serving for the best results.
Equipment Needed
Baking Dish: A 9×13 inch dish works perfectly. If you don’t have one, any oven-safe dish will do.
Mixing Spoon: A sturdy spoon for combining ingredients. A spatula can also work.
Fork: Essential for mashing the feta and mixing it with the tomatoes.
Pot: For boiling the pasta. A large pot is ideal.
Variations
Vegetable Medley: Add bell peppers, zucchini, or spinach for extra nutrition and flavor.
Protein Boost: Toss in cooked chickpeas or grilled chicken for a heartier meal.
Herb Infusion: Experiment with fresh herbs like thyme or parsley for a different flavor profile.
Cheese Swap: Try goat cheese or ricotta for a unique twist on the creamy base.
Gluten-Free Option: Substitute regular pasta with gluten-free pasta for a suitable alternative.
Serving Suggestions
Side Salad: Pair with a fresh arugula or mixed greens salad drizzled with lemon vinaigrette.
Bread: Serve with crusty garlic bread or warm pita for dipping into the creamy sauce.
Wine: A chilled white wine, like Sauvignon Blanc, complements the dish beautifully.
Presentation: Serve in a rustic bowl, garnished with extra basil for a pop of color.
FAQs about BAKED FETA PASTA
Can I use a different type of cheese instead of feta?
Absolutely! While feta is the star of this dish, you can experiment with goat cheese or ricotta for a different flavor. Just keep in mind that the texture and taste will change slightly.
How can I make this BAKED FETA PASTA gluten-free?
To make this dish gluten-free, simply swap out regular pasta for gluten-free pasta. There are plenty of delicious options available that will work just as well!
Can I prepare BAKED FETA PASTA in advance?
You can prep the tomato and feta mixture ahead of time and store it in the fridge. Just bake it fresh when you’re ready to enjoy the dish. It’s a great way to save time on busy nights!
What can I serve with BAKED FETA PASTA?
This creamy pasta pairs wonderfully with a light side salad or some crusty garlic bread. A chilled white wine also complements the flavors beautifully!
How do I store leftovers?
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Just reheat in the oven or microwave before serving again. Enjoy the creamy goodness all over again!
Final Thoughts
Creating BAKED FETA PASTA is more than just cooking; it’s about bringing joy to your table. The creamy texture and vibrant flavors make it a dish that warms the heart and satisfies the soul. Whether you’re sharing it with family or enjoying a quiet night in, this recipe is a reminder that good food doesn’t have to be complicated. It’s a celebration of simple ingredients coming together to create something truly special. So, roll up your sleeves, embrace the process, and let this delightful dish become a cherished part of your culinary journey!
A creamy and delicious baked feta pasta dish that combines roasted cherry tomatoes and feta cheese for a delightful meal.
Ingredients
Scale
8 ounces pasta (penne or fusilli)
1 block (8 ounces) feta cheese
2 cups cherry tomatoes
1/4 cup olive oil
4 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon dried oregano
1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh basil leaves for garnish
Grated Parmesan cheese for serving (optional)
Instructions
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
In a large baking dish, combine the cherry tomatoes, olive oil, minced garlic, dried oregano, red pepper flakes (if using), salt, and pepper. Toss well to coat the tomatoes.
Place the block of feta cheese in the center of the tomato mixture. Drizzle a little more olive oil on top of the feta and season with salt and pepper.
Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the tomatoes are bursting and the feta is golden and soft.
While the feta and tomatoes are baking, cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
Once the feta and tomatoes are done, remove the baking dish from the oven. Use a fork to mash the feta and mix it with the tomatoes until creamy.
Add the cooked pasta to the baking dish and toss everything together until the pasta is well coated with the sauce.
Garnish with fresh basil leaves and sprinkle with grated Parmesan cheese if desired. Serve immediately.
Notes
For a vegetarian protein boost, add cooked chickpeas or spinach to the pasta before mixing.
Experiment with different vegetables like bell peppers or zucchini for added flavor and nutrition.
