Baked Feta Pasta

This Baked Feta Pasta is an incredibly easy, flavorful, and comforting dish that has taken the internet by storm. With just a few simple ingredients, you can create a creamy, cheesy, and perfectly baked pasta that will leave everyone asking for more. The recipe combines ripe grape tomatoes, a block of feta cheese, and Italian seasoning, all roasted together to create a rich, tangy sauce. When mixed with freshly cooked pasta, this dish becomes an instant favorite.

The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity. The tomatoes burst and caramelize as they roast, while the feta cheese becomes soft and melty, creating a luscious sauce that coats the pasta perfectly. Whether you’re making it for a busy weeknight dinner or a weekend gathering, this baked feta pasta is sure to impress.

This dish serves four and takes just under an hour to prepare, making it a perfect go-to meal when you’re craving something comforting yet quick.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

1. Super Easy to Make

With minimal prep work, this dish comes together effortlessly. Simply pop everything in the oven, cook the pasta, and combine for a delicious, no-fuss meal.

2. Packed with Flavor

The feta cheese melts into the roasted tomatoes, creating a savory and slightly tangy sauce that’s rich and creamy. The addition of fresh basil adds a lovely aromatic touch.

3. One-Pan Cooking

Roast the feta and tomatoes on a single baking sheet, reducing cleanup and keeping things simple.

4. Customizable

This recipe can be easily adapted to your preferences. You can add extra veggies like spinach, bell peppers, or mushrooms, or use a different pasta shape to suit your taste.

5. Perfect for Meal Prep

This dish can be made ahead of time and stored in the fridge, making it a great choice for meal prepping lunches or dinners for the week.

this RECIPE

Ingredients

• 2 ½ cups grape tomatoes, washed and dried
• 1-8 oz block of feta cheese
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• ½ teaspoon salt
• 5 tablespoons olive oil
• ¼ cup chopped fresh basil
• 12 oz bow tie pasta, cooked, drained, and kept warm

Variations

• Vegetarian: This dish is already vegetarian, but you can make it more hearty by adding roasted vegetables such as zucchini, bell peppers, or spinach.
• Gluten-Free: Swap the bow tie pasta for your favorite gluten-free pasta, such as rice pasta or gluten-free penne.
• Vegan: Use vegan feta cheese and substitute olive oil for a plant-based butter to make this dish vegan-friendly.
• Spicy: Add red pepper flakes or fresh chili for a spicy kick that pairs perfectly with the creamy feta sauce.

How to Make the Recipe

Step 1: Preheat and Prepare Baking Sheet

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). On a large baking sheet, place the grape tomatoes and feta cheese. Drizzle with olive oil and sprinkle with Italian seasoning and salt. Toss the tomatoes gently to coat them evenly with the oil and seasoning.

Step 2: Bake the Feta and Tomatoes

Place the baking sheet in the oven and bake for 35-40 minutes, or until the tomatoes are soft, bursting, and slightly caramelized, and the feta cheese is golden and melting.

Step 3: Cook the Pasta

While the feta and tomatoes are baking, cook the bow tie pasta according to the package instructions. Drain the pasta, and keep it warm.

Step 4: Mix Everything Together

Once the feta and tomatoes are roasted, remove them from the oven. Use a spoon or fork to mash the feta and mix it with the tomatoes, creating a creamy sauce. Add the cooked pasta to the baking sheet and toss everything together, ensuring the pasta is well coated with the sauce.

Step 5: Garnish and Serve

Sprinkle the chopped fresh basil over the pasta and serve immediately. Enjoy!

Tips for Making the Recipe

• Use High-Quality Feta: The quality of your feta will make a big difference in the flavor of the dish. Look for a high-quality, creamy feta for the best result.
• Don’t Overcrowd the Baking Sheet: For the tomatoes to roast evenly, avoid overcrowding the baking sheet. Spread the tomatoes and feta out in a single layer.
• Add Extra Veggies: Feel free to add vegetables like spinach, zucchini, or roasted garlic to the baking sheet for extra flavor and nutrition.
• Make It Creamier: If you prefer a creamier sauce, add a splash of heavy cream or milk once the feta and tomatoes are mixed together.

How to Serve

• With a Side Salad: This dish pairs wonderfully with a simple side salad made with mixed greens, arugula, or spinach and a tangy vinaigrette dressing.
• With Garlic Bread: Serve alongside crispy garlic bread or crusty baguette slices to soak up the creamy sauce.
• As a Standalone Meal: This baked feta pasta is hearty and filling enough to stand alone, making it perfect for a light dinner or lunch.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place in the microwave or on the stovetop with a splash of olive oil or cream to rehydrate the sauce.

Freezing

This dish is best served fresh but can be frozen for up to 1 month. When reheating, you may need to add extra olive oil or cream to get the sauce back to its creamy texture.

Reheating

Reheat leftovers in the microwave or stovetop over low heat. Add a little extra olive oil or water to help loosen up the sauce if needed.

FAQs

1. Can I use a different type of cheese?

Yes, you can substitute feta with goat cheese or ricotta for a different flavor profile.

2. Can I make this dish gluten-free?

Yes, simply use gluten-free pasta to make this dish suitable for those with gluten sensitivities.

3. Can I add protein to this dish?

Yes, grilled chicken, shrimp, or sausage would be excellent additions to this pasta for more protein.

4. Can I use dried basil instead of fresh?

While fresh basil adds a bright, aromatic flavor, you can use dried basil if that’s what you have on hand, though the flavor may be less vibrant.

5. How do I know when the tomatoes and feta are done baking?

The tomatoes should be soft, burst open, and slightly caramelized, while the feta should be golden and soft.

6. Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

You can prepare the pasta and roast the feta and tomatoes in advance. When ready to serve, simply combine everything and heat it up.

7. Can I use a different pasta shape?

Absolutely! Feel free to use any pasta shape you like—penne, spaghetti, or rigatoni would all work great.

8. Can I add more veggies?

Definitely! You can add roasted zucchini, bell peppers, spinach, or mushrooms for more variety.

9. Is this recipe vegetarian?

Yes, this baked feta pasta is vegetarian, but you can add some protein, like grilled chicken, if you wish.

10. Can I add a sauce to the pasta?

If you prefer a creamier texture, you can stir in a bit of heavy cream or milk to the feta and tomato sauce before mixing it with the pasta.

Conclusion

Baked Feta Pasta is the perfect recipe for a comforting, delicious, and simple meal. With its creamy feta sauce, sweet roasted tomatoes, and tender pasta, this dish is sure to satisfy your cravings for something hearty yet easy to make. Plus, it’s customizable to suit any taste preference, and it’s a great option for meal prepping. Whether you’re cooking for a crowd or a cozy night in, this dish is guaranteed to impress!

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