Baked Feta Pasta Recipe
There’s something incredibly comforting and yet exciting about a dish that feels gourmet but comes together in under an hour. Baked Feta Pasta does exactly that, blending creamy roasted feta and sweet cherry tomatoes into a luscious sauce that clings beautifully to every bit of tender pasta. This recipe combines simplicity with rich flavors to create a weeknight dinner or a casual entertaining staple that everyone will rave about. Once you try Baked Feta Pasta, it quickly becomes a beloved favorite you’ll want to make again and again.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These ingredients are simple but essential, each playing a special role in building the gorgeous flavor and texture that make this dish so irresistible. From the creamy feta to the burst of juicy tomatoes, every element counts.
- 250g Pasta: Choose your favorite shape; penne or rotini work great as they trap the sauce well.
- 200g Feta cheese: The star of the dish, it roasts into a creamy, tangy delight that creates the sauce base.
- 2 cups Cherry tomatoes: They blister and sweeten in the oven, balancing the salty feta beautifully.
- 3 tablespoons Olive oil: Adds richness to the bake and helps meld all flavors together.
- 2 cloves Garlic: Gives a fragrant, savory depth without overpowering the dish.
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning: Brings an herbaceous touch that harmonizes every bite perfectly.
How to Make Baked Feta Pasta
Step 1: Prep the Cheese and Tomatoes
Start by placing the whole block of feta in the center of a baking dish. Nestle the cherry tomatoes around it along with peeled whole garlic cloves. This layout ensures even roasting, allowing the tomatoes to soften and the feta to slowly melt into a velvety texture.
Step 2: Season and Drizzle
Drizzle olive oil generously over the feta and tomatoes, then sprinkle the Italian seasoning evenly on top. The olive oil aids caramelization while the herbs infuse subtle, aromatic notes during baking.
Step 3: Bake to Perfection
Pop the baking dish into a preheated oven at 400 degrees Fahrenheit (200 degrees Celsius) for about 30 to 35 minutes. You’ll know it’s ready when the tomatoes have burst and softened, and the feta is golden and creamy enough to stir into a luscious sauce.
Step 4: Cook the Pasta
While the feta and tomatoes bake, boil your pasta in salted water according to package instructions until al dente. Once drained, reserve a bit of pasta water—you might want this to loosen up the sauce later.
Step 5: Combine and Toss
Remove the baking dish from the oven and mash the feta and tomatoes together, incorporating the roasted garlic as well, to create a rich, creamy sauce. Toss this mixture with the drained pasta, adding a splash of reserved pasta water if needed for the perfect silky consistency.
How to Serve Baked Feta Pasta
Garnishes
A sprinkle of freshly chopped basil or parsley adds a vibrant pop of color and fresh flavor contrast to the warm, creamy pasta. You can also add a pinch of red pepper flakes if you like a little heat or a drizzle of good-quality extra virgin olive oil for added richness.
Side Dishes
Baked Feta Pasta pairs beautifully with a simple green salad to cut through the richness, or some rustic garlic bread to sop up every last bit of the sauce. Roasted vegetables such as asparagus or zucchini also make a lovely, wholesome accompaniment.
Creative Ways to Present
For a crowd-pleasing presentation, serve the baked feta and roasted tomatoes still warm in the baking dish, letting everyone help themselves. Alternatively, plate the pasta portioned individually and garnish with microgreens or toasted pine nuts for added texture and a touch of elegance.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover Baked Feta Pasta can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The sauce may thicken as it cools but will loosen up nicely when reheated gently.
Freezing
While not ideal for freezing due to the delicate texture of baked feta, you can freeze the cooked pasta separately. Thaw overnight in the fridge and then reheat with a splash of water or broth to revive the sauce’s creaminess.
Reheating
The best way to reheat Baked Feta Pasta is softly on the stove over low heat, stirring often and adding a little water or olive oil to restore its creamy sauce. Microwaving works too, but be careful not to overcook and dry it out.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of cheese instead of feta?
Feta is key for this recipe because of its crumbly texture that melts into a creamy sauce. However, you can experiment with goat cheese or halloumi for a different flavor, but it won’t melt quite the same way.
What pasta shapes work best for Baked Feta Pasta?
Short, sturdy pasta shapes like penne, fusilli, or rigatoni are ideal because they hold onto the sauce beautifully. But feel free to use whatever you have on hand — even spaghetti can work in a pinch.
Is this recipe suitable for vegetarians?
Yes, Baked Feta Pasta is naturally vegetarian as it contains no meat or fish. Just check your pasta brand to ensure it’s egg-free if you prefer vegan-friendly options.
How spicy is the dish? Can I add heat?
This dish is mild by default, highlighting creamy and fresh flavors. If you want to add heat, sprinkle some crushed red pepper flakes on top before or after baking, or add a pinch of cayenne to the seasoning mix.
Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Absolutely! Just swap out the regular pasta for your favorite gluten-free variety. The sauce and main ingredients remain the same and just as delicious.
Final Thoughts
Baked Feta Pasta is one of those magical recipes that turns simple ingredients into pure comfort food with just a little oven magic. It’s perfect for a fuss-free weeknight meal or a cozy dinner with friends. Give it a try and I promise you’ll be hooked on the way those creamy feta and roasted tomatoes come together to make something truly special every time.
