Baked Feta Pasta Recipe

If you’re in the mood for a fuss-free, outrageously flavorful dinner that practically makes itself, Baked Feta Pasta is calling your name! Picture salty, creamy feta melting into juicy, roasted tomatoes, all tossed with your favorite al dente pasta and plenty of fresh basil. This viral sensation isn’t just beautiful—it delivers big on taste and comfort, and it’s one of those recipes you’ll crave again and again!

Ingredients You’ll Need

You only need a handful of basic ingredients for Baked Feta Pasta, and together they create a dish that tastes far more complex than the sum of its parts! Each ingredient plays a starring role—so choose the best you can find and let their natural flavors shine through.

• Cavatappi Pasta (8 ounces): The fun, curly shape of cavatappi holds onto that creamy sauce—though any pasta will do.
• Cherry Tomatoes (2 pints): Roasting these brings out their sweetness and makes them juicy—perfect for marrying with feta.
• Block Feta Cheese (8 ounces): The heart and soul of the dish, it melts into a creamy, tangy sauce as it bakes.
• Extra Virgin Olive Oil (½ cup): Adds a lush richness, helps everything roast beautifully, and ties all the flavors together.
• Salt & Black Pepper (¼ teaspoon each): Just enough to season those tomatoes and highlight the feta’s flavor.
• Garlic (2 cloves, minced): Adds punchy, aromatic depth while staying bright and fresh—add it after baking so it doesn’t burn.
• Fresh Basil (¼ cup chopped, plus more for garnish): Basil brings the sunshine! It gives bursts of color and an herby lift right at the end.

Variations

Baked Feta Pasta is wildly versatile—it’s basically a blank canvas for your craving or whatever you have in the fridge! Don’t be afraid to mix things up for a new flavor twist, a dietary need, or just because you want to try something different.

• Mix Up the Pasta: Swap in penne, fusilli, rigatoni, or gluten-free pasta—this recipe works with just about any shape you love.
• Add More Veggies: Toss in baby spinach, roasted red peppers, zucchini, or even a handful of arugula for extra color and nutrition.
• Make It Spicy: A pinch of red pepper flakes or a chopped fresh chili adds a gentle kick and balances the creamy feta beautifully.
• Try Different Cheese: Goat cheese or creamy ricotta can be swapped for feta if you want a milder (or tangier) base.
• Go Vegan: Use a plant-based feta and your favorite pasta to keep things dairy-free, without sacrificing that silky-saucy magic.

How to Make Baked Feta Pasta

Step 1: Prep the Tomatoes and Feta

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and grab an oven-safe baking dish. Tumble in the cherry tomatoes, drizzle with olive oil, sprinkle with salt and pepper, then toss to coat. Place the block of feta right in the center, nestling it among the tomatoes—give it a little flip to make sure it’s slicked with oil and seasoning.

Step 2: Bake Until Bubbly

Pop the dish into your preheated oven and bake for about 35 minutes. You’re looking for the tomatoes to burst open and become super juicy, and the feta to be soft, lightly golden, and irresistibly melty in the middle.

Step 3: Cook Your Pasta

While the feta and tomatoes are doing their thing, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the pasta just until al dente, according to package instructions. Before draining, scoop out ½ cup of the starchy cooking water—this can help make your final sauce extra silky if needed.

Step 4: Bring It Together

As soon as the baking dish comes out of the oven, add the minced garlic and chopped fresh basil directly to the hot mixture. Stir everything together until the tomatoes burst completely and the feta melds into a creamy, luxurious sauce.

Step 5: Toss and Serve

Add your drained pasta to the baking dish and toss it with the tomato-feta sauce until everything is well coated. If the sauce needs loosening, splash in some reserved pasta water until you hit your perfect consistency. Finish with extra basil for that fresh pop and serve warm!

How to Serve Baked Feta Pasta

Garnishes

For a gorgeous finish and irresistible flavour, shower your Baked Feta Pasta with loads of chopped fresh basil right before serving. A little drizzle of extra virgin olive oil or a crack of black pepper takes it over the top—and if you love a little heat, scatter on some red pepper flakes.

Side Dishes

Pair this dish with crusty bread or garlic toast to soak up every last bit of that creamy sauce. A simple green salad—maybe with peppery arugula or crisp romaine—makes a fresh, light counterpoint. For extra color, add a small platter of roasted veggies or marinated olives.

Creative Ways to Present

Show off your Baked Feta Pasta on a big, shallow platter and let the vibrant colors shine. Try tucking in a few roasted cherry tomatoes on top or swirling the noodles in nests for beautiful single servings. For a party, consider baking and serving in individual au gratin dishes—adorable and utterly irresistible!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Any leftover Baked Feta Pasta should be cooled, then stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will keep its flavor and creamy texture for up to 3–4 days—perfect for quick lunches or next-day dinners.

Freezing

While you technically can freeze this pasta, the feta’s creamy texture can change after thawing, becoming a bit crumbly. For best flavor and consistency, enjoy your Baked Feta Pasta fresh or from the fridge, and avoid freezing if possible.

Reheating

Reheat leftovers gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of water or olive oil to revive that creamy sauce. Stir well as it warms through, and sprinkle with a fresh dose of basil for a just-made flavor boost.

FAQs

Final Thoughts

This Baked Feta Pasta is the ultimate way to turn super-simple ingredients into pure comfort. I can’t wait for you to try it for yourself—just one bite and you’ll understand why it’s taken the world (and weeknight tables) by storm. Happy cooking, and don’t forget to share your delicious creations!

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