Baked feta pasta in a white oval dish with a gold serving spoon, garnished with fresh parsley and surrounded by cherry tomatoes on a dark rustic background.

Baked Feta Pasta: how to make it?

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Introduction

Baked Feta Pasta: Remember that time you stumbled upon a recipe so simple yet so incredibly delicious that you knew it was destined for greatness? That’s exactly how I felt when I first encountered this Baked Feta Pasta. This Baked Feta Pasta dish exploded onto the scene, captivating foodies and casual cooks alike with its ease and incredible flavor. This particular Baked Feta Pasta recipe isn’t just a fleeting trend; it’s a testament to the magic that happens when creamy feta meets sweet, bursting tomatoes in a symphony of Mediterranean flavors. This Baked Feta Pasta offers a comforting hug in a bowl, perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a cozy weekend meal.

Baked Feta Pasta Recipe

Recipe Card

Recipe Name: Baked Feta Pasta
Description: Craving an easy and flavorful pasta dish? This Baked Feta Pasta recipe is a must-try! Creamy baked feta, sweet tomatoes, and your favorite pasta make a delicious and quick dinner. TikTok famous!
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 40 minutes
Total Time: 50 minutes
Servings: 4-6
Calories: (Calculated after recipe completion – see nutrition section)

Ingredients for Baked Feta Pasta

  • 1 block (8 ounces/225g) feta cheese
  • 1 pint (about 500g) cherry tomatoes
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1/4 cup (60ml) olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
  • Pinch of red pepper flakes (optional)
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 1 pound (500g) pasta (penne, rigatoni, or your favorite shape)
  • Fresh basil leaves for garnish

Instructions to Make Baked Feta Pasta

  1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
  2. Place the block of feta in the center of a baking dish (about 9×13 inches). Surround the feta with the cherry tomatoes. Sprinkle the minced garlic, olive oil, oregano, red pepper flakes (if using), salt, and pepper over the feta and tomatoes.
  3. Bake in the preheated oven for 30-40 minutes, or until the tomatoes have burst and the feta is softened and slightly golden.
  4. While the feta and tomatoes are baking, cook the pasta according to package directions until al dente. Reserve about 1 cup of pasta water before draining.
  5. Once the feta and tomatoes are done baking, remove the dish from the oven. Use a fork or spoon to mash the feta and tomatoes together, creating a creamy, luscious sauce.
  6. Add the cooked pasta to the dish and toss to coat. If the sauce is too thick, add a little of the reserved pasta water to loosen it up.
  7. Garnish with fresh basil leaves and serve immediately.

Notes on Baked Feta Pasta

  • For a richer flavor, use high-quality olive oil.
  • Don’t overcook the pasta; it should be al dente.
  • Adjust the amount of red pepper flakes to your spice preference.

Nutrition Information for Baked Feta Pasta

NutrientAmount per Serving (1.5 cups)
Calories550-650 kcal(depending on pasta type and oil used)
Sugar8-10 g
Sodium600-800 mg
Fat25-35 g
Saturated Fat15-20 g
Unsaturated Fat8-12 g
Trans Fat0 g
Carbohydrates60-70 g
Fiber4-6 g
Protein20-25 g
Cholesterol70-90 mg

Why You’ll Love This Baked Feta Pasta

  1. Effortlessly Delicious: This recipe is incredibly simple, requiring minimal effort and time in the kitchen. Perfect for busy weeknights!
  2. Flavor Explosion: The combination of creamy, tangy feta, sweet, juicy tomatoes, and fragrant herbs creates a flavor profile that’s both comforting and exciting.
  3. Crowd-Pleaser: This dish is a guaranteed hit with both kids and adults. It’s perfect for family dinners, potlucks, or casual gatherings.
  4. Versatile and Adaptable: Easily customize this recipe with your favorite vegetables, herbs, or protein sources.
  5. TikTok Famous: You’ll be part of a culinary phenomenon! This recipe’s viral status makes it a fun and trendy dish to share with friends and family.

Key Ingredients and Substitutions

Baked Feta Pasta Dish with Cherry Tomatoes and Herbs
Baked Feta, cherry tomatoes, and pasta – the perfect combination!
  • Feta Cheese: The star of the show! Use a good quality block of feta for the best flavor and texture. While traditional feta is made from sheep’s milk, you might find cow’s milk or goat’s milk versions. If you’re looking for a less salty option, try a “light” feta.
  • Cherry Tomatoes: These add sweetness and burst with flavor when roasted. You can also use other types of tomatoes, such as grape tomatoes or Roma tomatoes, but cherry tomatoes work best.
  • Pasta: Any pasta shape will work, but short shapes like penne, rigatoni, or fusilli are particularly good at capturing the creamy sauce.
  • Garlic: Adds a pungent, aromatic flavor. Fresh garlic is best, but you can use garlic powder in a pinch (about 1/2 teaspoon).
  • Olive Oil: Use a good quality olive oil for the best flavor.
  • Herbs: Dried oregano is a classic Mediterranean herb that complements the flavors of the dish perfectly. Fresh basil is essential for garnish and adds a fresh, vibrant touch.
Creamy baked feta pasta in a rustic dish with blistered cherry tomatoes, al dente penne, fresh basil, and a drizzle of olive oil.
Creamy Baked Feta Pasta: Golden feta meets burst tomatoes, tangled with penne and fresh basil. Comfort food at its finest!

How to Make Baked Feta Pasta (Step-by-Step)

  1. Prep the Baking Dish: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Place the feta block in the center of a baking dish. Arrange the cherry tomatoes around the feta.
  2. Season: Sprinkle minced garlic, olive oil, dried oregano, red pepper flakes (if using), salt, and pepper over the feta and tomatoes.
  3. Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 30-40 minutes, or until the tomatoes burst and the feta softens.
  4. Cook Pasta: While the feta and tomatoes bake, cook the pasta until al dente. Reserve some pasta water.
  5. Create the Sauce: Once baked, mash the feta and tomatoes together. Add the cooked pasta and toss. Add pasta water for desired consistency.
  6. Garnish and Serve: Garnish with fresh basil and serve immediately.

Expert Tips for Success

  • Don’t overcrowd the baking dish: Give the tomatoes enough space to burst and caramelize properly.
  • Use a good quality feta: The flavor of the feta will significantly impact the overall taste of the dish.
  • Reserve pasta water: This is crucial for creating a creamy sauce. The starchy water helps to emulsify the sauce and bind it to the pasta.
  • Taste and adjust: Before serving, taste the pasta and adjust the seasoning as needed

Variations and Customizations for Baked Feta Pasta

  • Add vegetables: Roasted vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, or eggplant would be delicious additions.
  • Spice it up: Add more red pepper flakes or a pinch of chili flakes for a spicier kick.
  • Add protein: Cooked chicken, shrimp, or chickpeas can be added for extra protein.
  • Make it cheesy: Sprinkle some grated Parmesan or Pecorino Romano cheese over the pasta before serving.
  • Lemon Zest: A bit of lemon zest adds a bright, citrusy note.

Storage and Reheating Instructions for Baked Feta Pasta

  • Serve with a side salad for a light and refreshing meal.
  • Crusty bread is perfect for soaking up the delicious sauce.
  • A glass of white wine or rosé pairs beautifully with this dish.

Serving Suggestions for Baked Feta Pasta

  • Side Salad: A light arugula salad with lemon dressing balances the richness.
  • Garlic Bread: A crispy, buttery side to soak up the sauce.
  • White Wine: A glass of Pinot Grigio complements the flavors beautifully.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About Baked Feta Pasta

  • How do I know when the feta and tomatoes are done? The tomatoes will be soft and bursting, and the feta will be softened and slightly golden.
  • Can I use a different type of cheese? While feta is the star of this dish, you could try using goat cheese or ricotta as alternatives, but the flavor profile will be different.
  • Can I make this ahead of time? It’s best served fresh, but you can roast the feta and tomatoes ahead of time and then combine them with the cooked pasta when you’re ready to eat.

Related Recipes to Baked Feta Pasta

  • Lemon Ricotta Pasta: A light and bright pasta dish with creamy ricotta, lemon, and herbs. (Good for those who like the simplicity and fresh flavors of the Baked Feta Pasta)
  • Spinach and Artichoke Pasta: A creamy and cheesy pasta dish with spinach and artichoke hearts. (Appeals to those who enjoy creamy pasta dishes)
  • Pasta with Roasted Vegetables: A versatile pasta dish that can be customized with your favorite roasted vegetables. (Great for those looking for vegetarian pasta options)
  • Cheesy Sausage Pasta : A customizable pasta dish that can be adapted with your favorite cheeses and sausage types. (Perfect for picky eaters and creative cooks alike)

Conclusion

In short, this Baked Feta Pasta recipe isn’t just a viral sensation; it’s a delicious, easy, and versatile dish that deserves a permanent spot in your recipe repertoire. From its humble beginnings on TikTok to its current reign as a weeknight dinner champion, Baked Feta Pasta has proven its staying power. The simple combination of creamy feta, sweet tomatoes, and your favorite pasta creates a symphony of flavors that’s hard to resist. Whether you’re a seasoned chef or a kitchen novice, this recipe is guaranteed to impress. So, gather your ingredients, preheat your oven, and get ready to experience the magic of Baked Feta Pasta for yourself. You won’t be disappointed!

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