The Coziest Baked Feta Pasta You’ll Ever Make
There’s something magical about recipes that require minimal effort but deliver maximum comfort—especially on those evenings when you’re craving something indulgent but don’t want to fuss over the stove. That’s exactly how I stumbled upon this baked feta pasta, a dish that feels like a warm hug in a bowl. I remember the first time I made it: rain tapping against the kitchen window, a candle flickering on the counter, and the scent of roasted tomatoes and garlic filling the air. By the time the feta came out of the oven, creamy and golden, I knew this recipe would become a staple in my home. And now, I’m so excited to share it with you.
Ingredients You’ll Need
- 1 block (8 oz) feta cheese – The star of the show! Opt for a block rather than crumbled feta—it melts beautifully and holds its shape.
- 2 cups cherry tomatoes – Sweet, juicy, and perfect for roasting. I love using a mix of colors for a vibrant dish.
- 3 cloves garlic, minced – Because what’s pasta without garlic? Adjust to taste if you’re a true garlic lover like me.
- 1/3 cup extra-virgin olive oil – A good-quality oil makes all the difference here.
- 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes – Just enough to give a gentle warmth. Omit if you prefer it mild.
- 8 oz pasta – I adore using penne or rigatoni—their nooks hold the creamy sauce so well.
- Fresh basil – For that final pop of color and freshness.
- Salt and black pepper – To taste, of course!
Let’s Get Baking
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). While it warms up, take a moment to admire those cherry tomatoes—they’re about to transform into something magical.
- Toss the tomatoes and garlic in a baking dish with the olive oil, red pepper flakes, and a generous pinch of salt and pepper. Give them a little stir so everything is well coated.
- Nestle the feta block right in the center of the tomatoes. Drizzle a bit more olive oil over the top—this helps it get that gorgeous golden crust.
- Bake for 25-30 minutes until the tomatoes have burst and the feta is soft and slightly browned on top. Your kitchen will smell absolutely heavenly by now.
At this point, you’ll want to start boiling your pasta—al dente, please!—because the next steps are where the magic truly happens. But we’ll get to that in just a moment. For now, take a deep breath and enjoy the anticipation. The best part is yet to come.
Pro Tips, Variations, and Substitutions
This baked feta pasta is wonderfully forgiving, so don’t be afraid to make it your own! Here are some ideas to customize it:
- Cheese Swap: If you can’t find feta, try goat cheese or even ricotta for a creamier twist.
- Veggie Boost: Toss in some spinach, kale, or roasted bell peppers for extra color and nutrients.
- Protein Power: Add grilled chicken, shrimp, or chickpeas for a heartier meal.
- Spice It Up: A pinch of red pepper flakes or a drizzle of chili oil will give it a nice kick.
What to Serve With Baked Feta Pasta
This dish is a star on its own, but it pairs beautifully with a few simple sides:
- A crisp green salad with lemon vinaigrette
- Garlic bread or crusty baguette for soaking up the sauce
- Roasted vegetables like asparagus or zucchini
- A glass of chilled white wine—think Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio
Storage and Reheating Tips
Leftovers? No problem! Here’s how to keep them tasting fresh:
- Storage: Transfer to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days.
- Reheating: Warm gently in a saucepan with a splash of water or milk to loosen the sauce. Microwave works too—just cover and heat in 30-second intervals.
- Freezing: While possible, the texture may change slightly. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use a different type of pasta?
Absolutely! Penne, rigatoni, or even spaghetti work well—just adjust the cooking time as needed.
Is this dish gluten-free?
It can be! Simply swap the pasta for your favorite gluten-free variety.
Can I make it ahead of time?
Yes! Assemble the tomatoes and feta ahead, then bake when ready. The flavors meld even better!
Why is my sauce too thick?
If the sauce feels too dense, stir in a little pasta water or olive oil to thin it out.
Final Thoughts
There’s something truly magical about how simple ingredients—creamy feta, sweet tomatoes, and fragrant herbs—come together in this dish. Whether you’re cooking for a crowd or just treating yourself, this baked feta pasta is sure to become a beloved staple in your kitchen. Whip it up, savor every bite, and don’t forget to share the joy (or keep it all for yourself—we won’t judge!). Happy cooking!
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Baked Feta Pasta
Description
A creamy and tangy pasta dish featuring baked feta cheese and cherry tomatoes, inspired by the viral TikTok trend.
Ingredients
For the Crust:
- 8 oz block of feta cheese
- 2 cups cherry tomatoes
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 8 oz pasta (penne or similar)
- 1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped
Instructions
1. Prepare the Crust:
- Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
- In a baking dish, place the feta block in the center and surround it with cherry tomatoes. Drizzle with olive oil and sprinkle minced garlic, red pepper flakes, and black pepper over the top.
- Bake for 25-30 minutes until the tomatoes burst and the feta softens.
- Meanwhile, cook the pasta according to package instructions. Reserve 1/2 cup of pasta water before draining.
- Remove the baking dish from the oven. Mash the feta and tomatoes together until creamy. Add the cooked pasta and toss to combine, adding reserved pasta water as needed for desired consistency.
- Garnish with fresh basil before serving.
Notes
You can customize the seasonings to taste.
