Baked feta pasta has taken the world by storm, and for good reason. This incredibly simple yet mouthwatering dish combines creamy, tangy feta cheese with roasted cherry tomatoes, garlic, and perfectly cooked pasta to create a meal that’s both satisfying and effortless. If you’re looking for a comforting, restaurant-quality dish made in under an hour, this baked feta pasta recipe is exactly what you need.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Minimal ingredients – You only need a handful of fresh, simple ingredients.
- Easy to make – Just pop everything in the oven, cook your pasta, and mix!
- Bursting with flavor – The roasted tomatoes, garlic, and feta create an unbeatable taste.
- Customizable – Add veggies, protein, or extra seasoning to make it your own.
Ingredients
For the best results, always use high-quality ingredients.
Main Ingredients:
- 8 oz (½ block) feta cheese (preferably Greek feta in brine)
- 2 pints cherry tomatoes (or grape tomatoes)
- 10 oz pasta (penne, rigatoni, or any short pasta)
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- ¼ cup extra virgin olive oil
- ½ tsp red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
- ½ tsp salt (adjust to taste)
- ½ tsp black pepper
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- Fresh basil, for garnish
- Zest of 1 lemon, for extra freshness
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). A hot oven is essential to roasting the tomatoes and feta to perfection.
Step 2: Prepare the Baking Dish
Place the cherry tomatoes in a 9×13-inch baking dish. Drizzle 3 tablespoons of olive oil over the tomatoes, then sprinkle with salt, black pepper, and oregano. Toss to coat evenly.
Step 3: Add the Feta Cheese
Place the feta block in the center of the baking dish, surrounded by the tomatoes. Drizzle with the remaining olive oil and sprinkle red pepper flakes on top for a subtle heat.
Step 4: Bake Until Bubbly
Transfer the dish to the oven and bake for 30 minutes, or until the tomatoes burst and release their juices, and the feta becomes soft and slightly golden on top.
Step 5: Cook the Pasta
While the feta and tomatoes are roasting, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook until al dente according to package instructions. Reserve ½ cup of pasta water, then drain the pasta.
Step 6: Mix Everything Together
Remove the baking dish from the oven. Use a spoon to mash the roasted feta and tomatoes together, creating a creamy sauce. Add the minced garlic and mix well.
Add the drained pasta directly into the dish and toss to coat. If the sauce is too thick, gradually add the reserved pasta water until you reach the desired consistency.
Step 7: Garnish & Serve
Finish by stirring in freshly chopped basil and lemon zest for an extra burst of flavor. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Recipe Variations & Additions
Want to make this dish even better? Here are some tasty variations:
Add Protein:
- Grilled Chicken – Sliced or shredded for extra heartiness.
- Shrimp – Add during the last 5 minutes of baking for a seafood twist.
- Crispy Bacon – Cook separately and sprinkle on top for a smoky crunch.
Boost the Veggies:
- Spinach or Kale – Stir in at the end for extra greens.
- Mushrooms – Sauté and mix in for a deeper umami flavor.
- Zucchini or Bell Peppers – Dice and roast alongside the tomatoes.
Try Different Cheeses:
- Goat Cheese – For a tangier, creamier texture.
- Ricotta – Stir in after baking for a lighter consistency.
Tips for the Best Baked Feta Pasta
- Use Block Feta – Pre-crumbled feta doesn’t melt the same way as a whole block.
- Don’t Skip the Garlic – Adding it at the end prevents burning and maximizes its flavor.
- Reserve Pasta Water – It helps create a silky, well-coated sauce.
- Customize the Spice Level – Adjust red pepper flakes to your preference.
- Serve Immediately – This dish is best enjoyed fresh, but leftovers can be stored for up to 3 days in the refrigerator.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Use a Different Pasta Shape?
Absolutely! Short pasta like fusilli, rotini, cavatappi, or even spaghetti works great.
Can I Make This Gluten-Free?
Yes! Just swap regular pasta for your favorite gluten-free pasta.
Can I Make It Vegan?
To make this dish vegan, substitute the feta with a plant-based feta alternative or a blend of cashew cheese and nutritional yeast.
What If I Don’t Have Cherry Tomatoes?
You can use diced Roma tomatoes or canned fire-roasted tomatoes as a backup.
Final Thoughts
Baked feta pasta is a must-try recipe that combines rich flavors with minimal effort. Whether you’re cooking for a quick weeknight dinner or hosting friends, this creamy, tangy pasta will impress every time.
Give it a try today, and let us know how you customize your baked feta pasta!
