Baked Feta Pasta Recipe

Looking for a dinner that’s creamy, tangy, and feels absolutely effortless? Baked Feta Pasta is the viral recipe that lives up to the hype! You toss cherry tomatoes and a block of feta into a baking dish—and after a quick bake, you’re rewarded with a luscious sauce to swirl with your favorite pasta. Seriously, is there anything dreamier for a weeknight?

Ingredients You’ll Need

One of the reasons Baked Feta Pasta is so magical is how a handful of humble ingredients transform into something totally craveable. Each addition is simple, but it’s those fresh flavors and textures that make every bite pure comfort and joy.

• Cavatappi Pasta (or pasta of your choice): Its twists hold onto all that creamy sauce, but honestly, use what you love—penne, fusilli, or even spaghetti work beautifully.
• Cherry Tomatoes: They burst in the oven, releasing sweet, tangy juices that mingle with the cheese for the ultimate sauce.
• Block of Feta Cheese: Skip the crumbled feta—this block softens and melts, creating a luxurious, creamy base.
• Extra Virgin Olive Oil: Adds richness and helps everything roast to golden perfection.
• Salt & Black Pepper: Simple seasonings that make all the ingredients shine; don’t skip ’em!
• Garlic: Minced and stirred in at the end, it gives a punchy, aromatic kick.
• Fresh Basil: Lends bright, herby freshness—save some extra for sprinkling just before serving.

Variations

The beauty of Baked Feta Pasta is how forgiving it is! Don’t be afraid to riff on the classic or swap out ingredients based on what you have—or what you’re craving. Here are some of my favorite ways to make it your own:

• Gluten-Free: Simply use your favorite gluten-free pasta—chickpea, lentil, or brown rice varieties all work well.
• Add Protein: Toss in cooked chicken, shrimp, or white beans to make this meal extra hearty.
• Try Different Cheeses: Craving less tang? Swap feta for creamy goat cheese or even a log of Boursin for more herbal notes.
• Load Up on Veggies: Add spinach, kale, zucchini ribbons, or roasted red peppers during the last few minutes of baking for extra color and nutrition.

How to Make Baked Feta Pasta

Step 1: Prep the Baking Dish

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) to get started. Grab an oven-safe baking dish, then add all your cherry tomatoes. Drizzle generously with olive oil, season with salt and black pepper, and toss everything together right in the dish so the tomatoes are evenly coated and ready to roast.

Step 2: Nestle the Feta

Take your whole block of feta and nestle it right in the center of the dish, surrounded by those glossy tomatoes. Flip the feta a couple times in the oil and seasoning so it’s well coated and ready to melt into creamy goodness.

Step 3: Bake Until Bubbling

Slide the dish into your preheated oven and bake for about 35 minutes. You’ll know it’s ready when the tomatoes burst and release their juices, turning jammy, and the feta is soft and lightly golden. Your kitchen will smell positively dreamy!

Step 4: Boil the Pasta

While the feta and tomatoes are roasting, cook your pasta in a large pot of well-salted water until perfectly al dente. Don’t forget to scoop out about ½ cup of pasta water before draining—it’s handy for loosening the sauce, if needed.

Step 5: Mix the Sauce

Straight out of the oven, immediately stir in your minced garlic and chopped basil—the residual heat brings out their best. Gently mash and mix the feta and tomatoes together right in the baking dish to make a stunningly creamy, herby sauce.

Step 6: Combine and Serve

Add the cooked pasta to the tomato-feta mixture and toss until the noodles are coated with every drop of that silky sauce. If things seem thick, just splash in a bit of the reserved pasta water. Top with more basil, and serve warm—you’re officially a Baked Feta Pasta pro!

How to Serve Baked Feta Pasta

Garnishes

Baked Feta Pasta loves a finishing touch—add extra fresh basil for a fragrant pop, a grind of black pepper, and maybe a sprinkle of red pepper flakes if you crave a little heat. For extra richness, a drizzle of good olive oil right before serving never hurts!

Side Dishes

This pasta is a full meal on its own, but it’s fabulous with a crisp green salad—think arugula with lemon vinaigrette—or a platter of roasted vegetables. Warm, crusty bread is practically required to mop up every bit of sauce!

Creative Ways to Present

Try serving your Baked Feta Pasta in individual bowls with a big sprig of basil on top or as a main dish at a dinner party with a swirl of balsamic glaze for dramatic flair. It’s also lovely served family-style in the baking dish, letting everyone dig in together.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover Baked Feta Pasta keeps well in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three or four days. The flavors actually mingle even more as it rests, turning your quick dinner into a wonderful grab-and-go lunch.

Freezing

If you want to freeze leftovers, let the pasta cool completely, then store in a freezer-safe container. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating—the texture of the feta may change slightly, but it’s still deliciously creamy.

Reheating

Reheat gently in the microwave or on the stovetop, adding a splash of water or milk to loosen the sauce if needed. Stir until heated through, and top with a fresh sprinkle of basil to revive that just-baked brightness.

FAQs

Final Thoughts

I hope you give Baked Feta Pasta a place at your table this week! It’s proof that just a few fresh ingredients—and a little bit of oven magic—can create a meal your whole crew will crave. Happy cooking, and don’t forget to snap a photo before everyone digs in!

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