Baked feta pasta. Need I say more? This vibrant dish, bursting with Mediterranean flavors, has taken the internet by storm, and for very good reason. It’s simple, comforting, and incredibly delicious. Baked feta pasta is the kind of recipe that makes you feel like a culinary genius, even if you’re just starting out in the kitchen. It’s my absolute go to for a quick and satisfying meal.
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Why You Will Love This baked feta pasta Recipe
This baked feta pasta recipe is more than just a trend, it’s a flavor revelation. Imagine creamy, tangy feta melting into sweet roasted tomatoes, all mingling with perfectly cooked pasta. It’s a hug in a bowl! It’s also incredibly quick to throw together on a busy weeknight. This recipe transforms simple ingredients into something truly special, using minimal effort and maximum flavor.
There’s something magical about seeing the feta transform in the oven, becoming soft and spreadable. You can customize it with your favorite additions! I personally love adding a sprinkle of red pepper flakes for a touch of heat or some fresh basil to really make it pop. Don’t be afraid to explore!
Ingredients Needed for This baked feta pasta Recipe
- 8 ounces pasta (penne, rigatoni, or your favorite shape)
- 1 (8 ounce) block feta cheese
- 1 pint cherry tomatoes
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Optional: Red pepper flakes, fresh basil, lemon zest
How to Make This baked feta pasta Recipe
- 1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- 2. In a 9×13 inch baking dish, place the block of feta cheese in the center.
- 3. Surround the feta with the cherry tomatoes and minced garlic.
- 4. Drizzle the olive oil over the tomatoes and feta.
- 5. Sprinkle with dried oregano, salt, and pepper. Add a pinch of red pepper flakes if desired.
- 6. Bake for 30 to 35 minutes, or until the tomatoes are softened and the feta is golden brown and bubbly.
- 7. While the feta and tomatoes are baking, cook the pasta according to package directions until al dente. Reserve about 1/2 cup of pasta water before draining.
- 8. Once the feta and tomatoes are done baking, carefully remove the dish from the oven.
- 9. Use a fork or spoon to mash the feta and tomatoes together, creating a creamy sauce.
- 10. Add the cooked pasta to the baking dish and toss well to coat it evenly with the feta tomato sauce.
- 11. If the sauce is too thick, add a little bit of the reserved pasta water until it reaches your desired consistency.
- 12. Garnish with fresh basil and serve immediately. A squeeze of fresh lemon juice brightens the flavors even more! If you love oven baked dishes, check out my Pig Shots Oven Baked Recipe or my Crispy Homemade Baked Chicken Tenders 2!
How to Serve This baked feta pasta Recipe
This baked feta pasta is delicious served as a main course or as a side dish. It pairs beautifully with a simple green salad or some crusty bread for soaking up the delicious sauce. You could also add grilled chicken, shrimp, or vegetables for a more substantial meal.
For plating, arrange the pasta in a bowl and garnish with extra fresh basil, a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese, or a drizzle of olive oil. Don’t be afraid to experiment with different toppings and presentations! Remember, cooking should be fun! Follow us on Pinterest for more delicious and easy recipe ideas!
How to Store This baked feta pasta Recipe
Store leftover baked feta pasta in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
For freezing, it’s best to freeze the sauce separately from the pasta. Allow the sauce to cool completely before transferring it to a freezer safe container. Cook the pasta fresh when you are ready to enjoy the meal.
To reheat refrigerated pasta, microwave for 1 to 2 minutes, or until heated through. For frozen sauce, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and then reheat on the stovetop over medium heat, stirring occasionally.
Tips to Make This baked feta pasta Recipe
- Use high quality feta cheese for the best flavor.
- Don’t overcook the pasta. It should be al dente, as it will continue to cook slightly in the sauce.
- Roasting the tomatoes brings out their natural sweetness. Don’t skip this step!
- If you don’t have fresh garlic, you can use 1/2 teaspoon of garlic powder.
- For a spicier dish, add more red pepper flakes or a pinch of cayenne pepper.
Helpful Notes for This baked feta pasta Recipe
The type of pasta you use can affect the overall texture of the dish. Penne and rigatoni are great choices because their ridges help to grip the sauce. You can also adjust the amount of olive oil to suit your taste. Some people prefer a richer, more decadent sauce, while others prefer a lighter version. Feel free to add some garlic powder for depth.
For the feta, I usually prefer a block of Greek feta in brine. Feta crumbles can be used in a pinch, but the texture won’t be as creamy.
Be careful when draining the pasta so you don’t burn yourself.
Variation of This baked feta pasta Recipe
- Mediterranean Veggie Twist: Add chopped bell peppers, zucchini, or eggplant to the baking dish along with the tomatoes.
- Spinach and Artichoke Baked Feta Pasta: Stir in cooked spinach and artichoke hearts to the sauce before adding the pasta.
- Lemon Herb Baked Feta Pasta: Add lemon zest and fresh herbs like dill, parsley, or mint to the sauce for a brighter flavor. You may also enjoy my Crispy Baked Chicken Tenders!
What kind of feta cheese is best for baked feta pasta?
A block of Greek feta, packed in brine, is ideal. Avoid pre-crumbled feta, as it doesn’t melt as well and can result in a drier dish.
Can I use different vegetables in my baked feta pasta?
Absolutely! Cherry tomatoes are classic, but bell peppers, olives, zucchini, and spinach all work well. Adjust the baking time slightly depending on the chosen vegetables.
How do I prevent my baked feta pasta from being too oily?
Drain excess oil after baking and before mixing the pasta. Using a high-quality feta cheese and not adding too much extra olive oil also helps.
What kind of pasta is best to use for baked feta pasta?
Short pasta shapes like penne, rigatoni, or fusilli work best because they hold the sauce well. However, feel free to experiment with your favorite pasta.
Conclusion
So, are you ready to dive into a bowl of utter deliciousness? This baked feta pasta is a guaranteed crowd pleaser, and it’s so simple to make that you’ll be whipping it up on repeat. Gather your ingredients, preheat your oven, and get ready for a flavor explosion that will have you saying “Opa!” Don’t forget to leave a comment and let me know how your baked feta pasta turns out!
