Description
This Baked Feta Pasta is a viral sensation that combines creamy feta cheese, sweet cherry tomatoes, and perfectly cooked pasta for a comforting and flavorful dish. With minimal prep and just a few ingredients, it’s the ideal weeknight meal or dish for a casual gathering. Roasted feta creates a creamy sauce that’s rich and tangy, while the tomatoes bring a burst of sweetness. Whether served as a simple vegetarian meal or with added protein, this easy pasta recipe will quickly become a family favorite!
Ingredients
8 oz block of feta cheese
1 pint cherry or grape tomatoes
3 cloves garlic, minced
1/4 cup olive oil
1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
12 oz pasta (penne, fusilli, or spaghetti)
Salt and black pepper, to taste
Fresh basil leaves, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Place the block of feta cheese in the center of a large baking dish and surround it with the cherry tomatoes.
- Drizzle olive oil over the feta and tomatoes, coating them well. Sprinkle with minced garlic, oregano, red pepper flakes (if using), salt, and black pepper.
- Roast in the oven for 30-35 minutes, until the tomatoes are blistered and the feta is golden and softened.
- While the feta and tomatoes are roasting, cook the pasta according to the package instructions. Reserve about 1 cup of pasta water, then drain the pasta.
- Remove the baking dish from the oven and mash the roasted feta and tomatoes together using a fork or spoon, creating a creamy sauce.
- Add the cooked pasta to the dish and toss to coat. If the sauce is too thick, add some reserved pasta water to adjust the consistency.
- Garnish with chopped fresh basil and serve warm.
Notes
For added protein, consider tossing in grilled chicken, shrimp, or sausage before serving.
Vegetarian-friendly as written, but feel free to include sautéed veggies like spinach, zucchini, or bell peppers.
To make it vegan, swap the feta for a plant-based alternative.
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container for up to 3 days. The sauce may thicken, but reheating with a splash of pasta water or olive oil will help restore its creamy consistency.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Roasting, Boiling
- Cuisine: Mediterranean, Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 4 servings
- Calories: 450 kcal