There is nothing quite as comforting and delightfully simple as the Baked Feta Pasta Recipe, a sensational dish that has taken kitchens by storm with its creamy, tangy feta mingling flawlessly with juicy, oven-roasted cherry tomatoes. This recipe is a joyous celebration of Mediterranean flavors that come together in one humble baking dish, making it an effortless yet impressive meal that you’ll want to serve again and again.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This Baked Feta Pasta Recipe is all about simplicity with ingredients that are easy to find but pack a punch in flavor, color, and texture. Each component plays a vital role in creating that irresistibly creamy sauce with bursts of sweet tomato and fresh herbaceous notes.
- 8 oz block of feta cheese: The star of the dish, offering tanginess and creaminess when baked.
- 2 cups cherry tomatoes: Sweet and juicy, they roast to a luscious burst that balances the feta.
- 3 cloves garlic, minced: Adds a fragrant depth that enhances every bite.
- 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil: Brings richness and helps meld the sauce components.
- 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes (optional): For those who enjoy a hint of gentle heat.
- 10 oz pasta (penne or rotini recommended): The perfect vessel to catch that creamy sauce.
- Salt and pepper to taste: Essential seasonings to bring out the dish’s full potential.
- 1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped: Brightens the final dish with a pop of color and fresh aroma.
How to Make Baked Feta Pasta Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Oven and Baking Dish
Preheat your oven to 400°F to get it nice and hot, the perfect temperature to roast those cherry tomatoes until they burst with sweetness and soften beautifully. A medium-sized baking dish works best for an even cook.
Step 2: Combine Tomatoes, Garlic, and Olive Oil
Place the cherry tomatoes and minced garlic in your baking dish, then drizzle everything generously with olive oil. Season with salt, pepper, and if you’re feeling adventurous, a sprinkle of red pepper flakes. Toss all these elements gently so each tomato is coated with the flavorful oil and seasonings, setting the stage for a delicious sauce.
Step 3: Nestle the Feta Cheese
Now for the focal point: place the block of feta squarely in the center of the cherry tomato bed. To add a little extra love, drizzle some olive oil over the feta itself. This will help it bake into a dreamy, golden-soft masterpiece that you’ll want to dig into right away.
Step 4: Bake Until Perfection
Slide your dish into the oven and bake for 30 to 35 minutes. During this time, the tomatoes will burst, releasing their juices, while the feta transforms into a creamy, slightly browned delight. This oven time builds layers of flavor and creates the luscious sauce for your pasta.
Step 5: Cook Pasta and Combine
While your feta and tomatoes bake, prepare the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Don’t forget to save about half a cup of the pasta water before draining. Once the feta dish comes out of the oven, mash the feta and tomatoes together with a spoon until you have a creamy mixture. Toss the pasta into the baking dish and mix everything together. Add reserved pasta water a little at a time if the sauce feels too thick. Finally, stir in fresh chopped basil right before serving for a burst of herbaceous freshness.
How to Serve Baked Feta Pasta Recipe
Garnishes
To elevate this already fantastic dish, consider adding a few finishing touches like extra fresh basil leaves or a drizzle of high-quality olive oil. Toasted pine nuts or a sprinkle of crushed chili flakes can also provide delightful texture and flavor contrasts that make every forkful exciting.
Side Dishes
Since this pasta is packed with rich, creamy flavor, light and crisp sides complement it perfectly. Try serving it alongside a simple green salad with lemon vinaigrette or some roasted vegetables for a balanced meal. Garlic bread also makes a great accompaniment, especially for mopping up any leftover sauce!
Creative Ways to Present
For a more elegant presentation, swirl the pasta onto each plate beautifully instead of just serving from the pan. Adding a few whole roasted cherry tomatoes on top alongside fresh basil leaves can enhance the visual appeal. Serve in colorful bowls to contrast with the creamy white feta and vibrant red tomatoes for a feast for the eyes and the palate.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover Baked Feta Pasta Recipe keeps well in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. The flavors tend to deepen overnight, making it a fantastic make-ahead option for busy weeknights.
Freezing
If you want to freeze the leftovers, store the pasta in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Keep in mind that the texture might change slightly after freezing and thawing, particularly the feta, but the flavor will still be delightful once reheated.
Reheating
To reheat, gently warm your pasta in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of water or olive oil to loosen the sauce. Avoid microwaving directly as it can make the cheese rubbery. Heating slowly preserves that luscious texture you fell in love with initially.
FAQs
Can I use other types of cheese instead of feta?
Feta is unique because it melts into a creamy and tangy sauce that defines this dish. However, you might experiment with halloumi or goat cheese for different but delicious results. Just note that the flavor and texture will vary.
Is this recipe suitable for a vegan diet?
You can easily make this Baked Feta Pasta Recipe vegan by swapping the traditional feta for a plant-based alternative. Many store-bought vegan feta cheeses work beautifully when baked and mixed with the roasted tomatoes.
What pasta shapes work best for this dish?
Penne and rotini are ideal because their ridges and tubular shapes hold onto the creamy sauce beautifully. That said, you can use whatever pasta you have on hand. Just make sure it’s a shape that can catch the sauce well for maximum flavor in every bite.
Can I add other vegetables to the recipe?
Absolutely! Spinach, olives, or roasted red peppers can boost the flavor and add more texture to this dish. Feel free to customize to your taste and make it your own Mediterranean masterpiece.
How spicy is the dish with red pepper flakes?
The red pepper flakes add a subtle warmth but are completely optional. If you prefer no heat, simply omit them. If you love spicy food, feel free to add a pinch more to suit your taste buds.
Final Thoughts
Trust me when I say the Baked Feta Pasta Recipe is a game-changer for quick dinners that don’t compromise on flavor. This beautifully simple yet elegant dish brings together creamy, tangy, and sweet elements in such a harmonious way that it quickly becomes a favorite. Grab those few ingredients, pop them in the oven, and watch as magic happens—it’s a pasta night winner you won’t want to miss!
Print
Baked Feta Pasta Recipe
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Baked Feta Pasta is a simple and delicious Mediterranean-inspired dish featuring creamy baked feta cheese combined with bursting cherry tomatoes, garlic, and pasta tossed in a flavorful olive oil sauce. This recipe is perfect for a quick yet impressive weeknight dinner and can be customized with various add-ins for extra flavor.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 block (8 oz) feta cheese
- 2 cups cherry tomatoes
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil
- 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
- 10 oz pasta (such as penne or rotini)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) to prepare for baking the feta and tomatoes.
- Prepare Baking Dish: In a baking dish, place the cherry tomatoes and minced garlic. Drizzle with olive oil, season with salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes if using, and toss everything together to coat.
- Add Feta Cheese: Nestle the block of feta cheese in the center of the baking dish among the tomatoes. Drizzle a little olive oil over the top of the feta for extra moisture and flavor.
- Bake: Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 30–35 minutes, or until the tomatoes have burst and the feta is soft and lightly golden.
- Cook Pasta: While the feta and tomatoes bake, cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1/2 cup of pasta water, then drain the rest.
- Mash and Combine: Remove the baking dish from the oven. Using a spoon, mash the feta and roasted tomatoes together to create a creamy sauce.
- Toss Pasta: Add the cooked pasta to the baking dish and toss to combine with the sauce. Add reserved pasta water as needed to loosen the sauce to your desired consistency.
- Add Fresh Basil: Stir in the chopped fresh basil just before serving for a fragrant finish.
Notes
- Substitute feta with plant-based feta for a dairy-free option.
- Add spinach, olives, or roasted red peppers to enhance flavor and texture.
- Works well with gluten-free pasta for a gluten-free adaptation.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Mediterranean
