Why You’ll Love This Recipe

If you’re looking for a pasta dish that’s full of flavor, quick to make, and requires minimal effort, this Baked Feta Pasta is for you. The magic happens when you bake feta cheese and tomatoes together, allowing the cheese to melt and become creamy while the tomatoes burst into juicy goodness. Tossing this with pasta creates a rich, savory sauce that’s sure to satisfy any craving. It’s a great recipe to make when you’re short on time but still want to serve something delicious to your family or guests.

Ingredients

8 oz pasta (penne, rigatoni, or any pasta of your choice)
1 block (200g) feta cheese
2 cups cherry or grape tomatoes
3 tablespoons olive oil
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon dried oregano
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh basil leaves for garnish (optional)

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

Directions

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
In a baking dish, arrange the block of feta cheese in the center. Surround the feta with the cherry or grape tomatoes.
Drizzle olive oil over the tomatoes and feta. Sprinkle the minced garlic, dried oregano, salt, and pepper over the top.
Bake in the oven for 25-30 minutes, until the feta has softened and the tomatoes have burst.
While the feta and tomatoes are baking, cook the pasta according to the package instructions. Drain and set aside.
Once the feta and tomatoes are done, remove the baking dish from the oven. Use a spoon or fork to mash the feta and tomatoes together, creating a creamy sauce.
Toss the cooked pasta into the creamy feta mixture and stir until everything is well coated.
Garnish with fresh basil leaves if desired, and serve immediately.

Servings and timing

Servings: 4
Preparation time: 10 minutes
Cooking time: 30 minutes
Total time: 40 minutes

Variations

Vegan Version: Swap the feta cheese for a plant-based feta or any vegan cheese alternative.
Vegetarian Add-ins: Add spinach, arugula, or roasted vegetables like zucchini or bell peppers to the mix for extra flavor and nutrition.
Spicy Twist: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a bit of heat in the dish.
Different Cheese: If you’re not a fan of feta, you can try this recipe with goat cheese or ricotta for a different texture and flavor.

Storage/Reheating

Storage: Store leftover Baked Feta Pasta in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days.
Reheating: To reheat, simply microwave the pasta or warm it up on the stove with a little extra olive oil or a splash of water to prevent it from drying out.

FAQs

How do I make sure the feta cheese doesn’t burn while baking?

Feta cheese is quite resilient to heat, but to ensure it doesn’t burn, be sure to use a baking dish that fits the ingredients snugly and keep an eye on it. If the feta starts to brown too quickly, you can lower the oven temperature slightly.

Can I use a different type of pasta?

Yes, you can use any type of pasta you prefer. Penne, rigatoni, fusilli, or spaghetti all work well in this dish.

Is it possible to make this recipe gluten-free?

Absolutely! Simply swap out regular pasta for gluten-free pasta to make this dish gluten-free.

How can I make the pasta spicier?

Add red pepper flakes or diced fresh chili peppers to the tomato and feta mixture before baking for a spicy kick.

Can I use frozen tomatoes for this recipe?

Fresh tomatoes work best for this recipe, but if you have frozen tomatoes, you can use them. Just be aware that the texture may change slightly, and they may release more moisture during cooking.

Can I add protein to this dish?

Yes, you can add grilled chicken, shrimp, or even plant-based protein such as tofu to make it a more filling meal.

How do I make the feta more creamy?

To achieve a creamier texture, ensure that you let the feta bake long enough to soften and mix it well with the tomatoes. The oil and the juices from the tomatoes will create a rich sauce.

Can I double the recipe?

You can easily double the recipe if you need to serve more people. Just make sure you use a larger baking dish and adjust the baking time as necessary.

Can I prepare this ahead of time?

While this dish is best enjoyed fresh, you can prepare the components ahead of time by chopping the tomatoes and mincing the garlic. When you’re ready, just assemble and bake.

What’s the best way to store leftovers?

Store any leftover Baked Feta Pasta in an airtight container in the fridge. Reheat it in the microwave or on the stovetop before serving.

Conclusion

Baked Feta Pasta is a flavorful, creamy, and easy-to-make dish that combines the richness of feta cheese with the burst of sweet tomatoes. Whether you’re cooking for your family or preparing a dinner for guests, this dish is sure to impress. With just a few simple ingredients and minimal prep time, you’ll have a hearty and satisfying meal that everyone will love. Try it out and experience the magic of baked feta in this simple pasta recipe!