Baked Feta Pasta Recipe

Baked Feta Pasta is a simple yet delicious dish that became an internet sensation for a good reason. This recipe features creamy, roasted feta cheese combined with sweet cherry tomatoes, garlic, and olive oil, all tossed with perfectly cooked pasta. The result is a rich, tangy, and flavorful dish that comes together effortlessly in the oven.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make – The oven does most of the work for you.
• Minimal Ingredients – Just a handful of pantry staples create a gourmet-style dish.
• Incredibly Creamy – The baked feta melts into a luscious, tangy sauce.
• Customizable – Add your favorite veggies, proteins, or seasonings for a personal touch.
• One-Pan Wonder – Less cleanup means more time to enjoy your meal.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• Cherry tomatoes
• Block of feta cheese
• Olive oil
• Garlic cloves
• Red pepper flakes (optional)
• Dried oregano or basil
• Salt and pepper
• Pasta of choice
• Fresh basil (for garnish)

Directions

1. Preheat the Oven – Set your oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Prepare the Baking Dish – In a baking dish, add cherry tomatoes and drizzle with olive oil. Season with salt, pepper, and dried herbs.
3. Add the Feta – Place the block of feta cheese in the center of the dish. Drizzle with more olive oil and sprinkle with red pepper flakes if using.
4. Bake – Roast in the oven for about 30-35 minutes until the tomatoes burst and the feta is soft and golden.
5. Cook the Pasta – While the feta and tomatoes are baking, cook the pasta according to package instructions. Reserve some pasta water before draining.
6. Mix Everything Together – Once baked, use a spoon to mash the feta and tomatoes into a creamy sauce. Stir in the cooked pasta, adding reserved pasta water if needed to loosen the sauce.
7. Garnish & Serve – Sprinkle fresh basil on top and serve warm.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 4
• Prep Time: 5 minutes
• Cook Time: 35 minutes
• Total Time: 40 minutes

Variations

• Add Protein – Toss in grilled chicken, shrimp, or crispy bacon for extra heartiness.
• Make It Spicy – Add more red pepper flakes or chopped jalapeños.
• Use Different Cheese – Try goat cheese or ricotta for a different texture.
• Gluten-Free Option – Swap regular pasta for gluten-free pasta.
• Extra Veggies – Stir in spinach, mushrooms, or zucchini for added nutrition.

Storage/Reheating

• Refrigerate: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Reheat: Warm in the microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring in between, or heat on the stovetop with a splash of water to loosen the sauce.
• Freeze: Not recommended, as the texture of the feta sauce may change.

FAQs

How do I prevent the feta from drying out?

Use a good amount of olive oil and don’t overbake it. The moisture from the tomatoes also helps keep it creamy.

Can I use crumbled feta instead of a block?

A block of feta works best since it melts more smoothly, but crumbled feta can still be used.

What type of pasta works best?

Short pasta like penne, rigatoni, or fusilli holds the sauce well, but any type will work.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes! Bake the feta and tomatoes in advance, then reheat and mix with fresh pasta when ready to serve.

Is there a dairy-free option?

You can try dairy-free feta alternatives, but the texture and taste may differ.

What can I serve with baked feta pasta?

It pairs well with a side salad, garlic bread, or roasted vegetables.

Can I use sun-dried tomatoes instead of fresh ones?

Yes, but they won’t provide the same juicy texture. Mix them in after baking for the best results.

How do I make the sauce creamier?

Add a splash of heavy cream or a bit of reserved pasta water while mixing.

Can I add meat directly to the baking dish?

Yes, small pieces of cooked chicken or pre-cooked sausage can be added before serving.

Does this recipe work with vegan feta?

Yes! Vegan feta alternatives can work, though the texture may not be as creamy.

Conclusion

Baked Feta Pasta is a simple, flavorful dish that’s perfect for a quick weeknight meal or a gathering with friends. With its creamy texture, rich taste, and endless customization options, it’s easy to see why this recipe became a viral sensation. Give it a try and enjoy a restaurant-quality pasta dish right at home!

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