Baked Feta Pasta
If you’re looking for a dish that’s creamy, tangy, and bursting with Mediterranean flavors, this baked feta pasta is your answer. This recipe took the internet by storm for good reason—it’s simple, delicious, and requires minimal effort for maximum flavor. Whether you’re cooking for a weeknight dinner or entertaining guests, this dish is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. Let’s dive into why this recipe is so special and how you can make it perfectly every time.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
There’s a reason baked feta pasta became a viral sensation. Here’s why you’ll adore it:
- Effortless Elegance – With just a handful of ingredients and one baking dish, this recipe delivers restaurant-quality flavor without the fuss.
- Creamy and Tangy Perfection – The feta cheese melts into a luscious, velvety sauce that clings to every strand of pasta, balanced by sweet roasted cherry tomatoes.
- Versatile and Customizable – Whether you prefer gluten-free pasta, extra herbs, or a spicy kick, this dish adapts to your tastes effortlessly.
- Perfect for Any Occasion – It’s equally suited for a cozy night in or a dinner party centerpiece.
- Minimal Cleanup – Since everything bakes together in one pan, you’ll spend less time washing dishes and more time enjoying your meal.
Ingredients Breakdown
Every ingredient in this baked feta pasta plays a crucial role in creating its signature taste and texture:
- Block of Feta Cheese – The star of the dish. A high-quality Greek feta ensures a rich, tangy flavor that melts beautifully.
- Cherry Tomatoes – Their natural sweetness intensifies as they roast, creating a jammy, caramelized sauce.
- Olive Oil – Use extra-virgin for the best flavor. It helps roast the tomatoes and feta while adding a silky richness.
- Garlic – Thinly sliced or minced, it infuses the oil with aromatic depth.
- Pasta – Penne, rigatoni, or fusilli work best, as their shapes hold the sauce well.
- Fresh Basil or Oregano – Adds a bright, herbal finish that complements the creamy feta.
- Red Pepper Flakes (Optional) – For a subtle heat that balances the dish.
How to Make Baked Feta Pasta
Follow these simple steps for a foolproof baked feta pasta:
- Preheat Your Oven – Set it to 400°F (200°C) to ensure even roasting.
- Prepare the Baking Dish – In a large oven-safe dish, scatter cherry tomatoes and garlic. Drizzle generously with olive oil and season with salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes if using.
- Add the Feta – Place the block of feta in the center of the tomatoes, ensuring it’s nestled among them. Drizzle a bit more olive oil over the cheese.
- Roast – Bake for 25-30 minutes until the tomatoes burst and the feta turns golden and soft.
- Cook the Pasta – While the dish bakes, boil your pasta until al dente. Reserve a cup of pasta water before draining.
- Combine Everything – Once the tomatoes and feta are roasted, use a fork to mash them together into a creamy sauce. Toss in the cooked pasta, adding reserved pasta water as needed to loosen the sauce.
- Finish with Herbs – Stir in fresh basil or oregano for a pop of freshness.
Pro Tips for the Best Results
- Use Full-Fat Feta – Low-fat versions won’t melt as smoothly or deliver the same richness.
- Don’t Skip Pasta Water – The starchy liquid helps bind the sauce to the pasta.
- Roast Until Bubbly – Let the tomatoes and feta caramelize fully for maximum flavor.
- Add Lemon Zest – A little zest brightens the dish beautifully.
- Try Different Tomatoes – Sun-dried tomatoes or heirloom cherry tomatoes add unique twists.
Variations and Substitutions
This recipe is wonderfully adaptable:
- Gluten-Free – Use your favorite gluten-free pasta.
- Vegan – Swap feta for a dairy-free alternative and add nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor.
- Protein Boost – Stir in grilled chicken, shrimp, or white beans.
- Extra Veggies – Add roasted bell peppers, spinach, or zucchini.
- Herb Variations – Thyme, rosemary, or parsley can replace basil.
What to Serve With It
Pair your baked feta pasta with:
- A crisp green salad with lemon vinaigrette.
- Garlic bread or crusty baguette for soaking up the sauce.
- A light white wine like Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio.
- Grilled vegetables for a heartier meal.
How to Store and Reheat
Leftovers keep well for up to 3 days in the fridge. Store in an airtight container. To reheat:
- Stovetop – Warm gently in a pan with a splash of water or olive oil to revive the sauce.
- Microwave – Heat in 30-second intervals, stirring in between.
- Freezing – While possible, the texture may change slightly. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can I use crumbled feta instead of a block?
A block works best because it melts evenly. Crumbled feta can dry out and won’t create the same creamy sauce.
What if I don’t have cherry tomatoes?
Grape tomatoes work well, or you can dice larger tomatoes—just adjust roasting time as needed.
Can I make this ahead of time?
You can roast the tomatoes and feta in advance, then combine with freshly cooked pasta when ready to serve.
Is this dish too salty?
Feta is naturally salty, so avoid adding extra salt until after tasting the final dish.
Can I add meat to this pasta?
Absolutely! Cooked sausage, bacon, or pancetta make delicious additions.
Final Thoughts
Baked feta pasta is more than just a trend—it’s a testament to how simple ingredients can create something extraordinary. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or a beginner, this dish is sure to impress. The creamy, tangy sauce paired with sweet roasted tomatoes is a match made in heaven. So grab your baking dish, preheat that oven, and get ready to fall in love with every bite. Don’t forget to share your creation—it’s too good not to pass along!
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Baked Feta Pasta
Description
A creamy and tangy pasta dish made with baked feta cheese, cherry tomatoes, and fresh herbs. This viral recipe is simple yet incredibly flavorful, perfect for a quick weeknight dinner.
Ingredients
For the Crust:
- For the pasta:
- 8 oz (225g) pasta (penne or fusilli recommended)
- For the sauce:
- 8 oz (225g) block of feta cheese
- 2 cups (300g) cherry tomatoes
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup (60ml) olive oil
- 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- For garnish:
- Fresh basil leaves, chopped
- 1/2 tsp dried oregano
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 olive oil over the feta and tomatoes, then sprinkle minced garlic, red pepper flakes, salt, and black pepper.
- Bake for 30 minutes until the tomatoes burst and the feta turns golden.
- Meanwhile, cook pasta according to package instructions. Reserve 1/2 cup of pasta water before draining.
- Remove baking dish from oven. Mash the feta and tomatoes together with a fork until creamy.
- Add the cooked pasta and toss to coat. If needed, add reserved pasta water to loosen the sauce.
- Garnish with fresh basil and oregano before serving.
Notes
For extra flavor, add roasted garlic or sun-dried tomatoes. Vegetarian-friendly as-is, but can be topped with grilled chicken or shrimp for added protein.
