If you’re looking for a simple yet incredibly flavorful dish, this Baked Feta Pasta is a must-try! The creamy feta cheese, roasted tomatoes, and al dente pasta create a delightful combination that’s easy to prepare and perfect for any meal. This viral recipe has taken the internet by storm, and for good reason—it’s quick, delicious, and uses just a few ingredients. Let’s make this crowd-pleasing pasta together!
Ingredients for Baked Feta Pasta
Here’s what you’ll need to make this flavorful dish:
- Cherry tomatoes – 500g (about 2 cups)
- Feta cheese – 200g (1 block)
- Pasta – 300g (penne, rigatoni, or your choice)
- Olive oil – 4 tablespoons
- Garlic cloves – 4 cloves, minced
- Salt – 1 teaspoon
- Black pepper – 1/2 teaspoon
- Dried oregano – 1 teaspoon
- Fresh basil leaves – 1/4 cup, chopped (for garnish)
Kitchen Equipment Needed
To make this recipe, gather the following tools:
- Baking dish
- Pot for boiling pasta
- Cutting board
- Knife
- Wooden spoon
- Colander
- Grater (optional, for garnishing with parmesan cheese)
How to Prepare Baked Feta Pasta
1: Prepare the Tomatoes and Feta
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Place the cherry tomatoes in a baking dish.
- Add the block of feta cheese in the center of the dish.
- Drizzle olive oil over the tomatoes and feta.
- Sprinkle minced garlic, salt, black pepper, and dried oregano.
2: Bake Until Golden
- Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, until the tomatoes are blistered and the feta is golden and creamy.
3: Cook the Pasta
- While the feta and tomatoes are baking, cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente.
- Drain the pasta and set aside.
4: Combine and Mix
- Remove the baking dish from the oven.
- Use a wooden spoon to mash the feta and tomatoes together, creating a creamy sauce.
- Add the cooked pasta to the baking dish and toss until well coated.
5: Garnish and Serve
- Sprinkle chopped fresh basil over the pasta.
- Optionally, garnish with grated parmesan cheese for extra flavor.
- Serve hot and enjoy!
Calories and Nutritional Information
Here’s the estimated calorie breakdown per serving (recipe serves 4):
- Feta cheese (200g): 600 calories
- Cherry tomatoes (500g): 100 calories
- Pasta (300g): 1050 calories
- Olive oil (4 tbsp): 480 calories
- Garlic (4 cloves): 20 calories
- Total Calories for the Dish: 2250 calories
- Calories per Serving: Approximately 560 calories
Please note that these values are estimates and may vary based on specific brands and portions used.
Tips for the Best Baked Feta Pasta
- Use high-quality feta cheese for a creamier texture and richer flavor.
- Add a splash of pasta water to the sauce if it’s too thick.
- Roast the tomatoes and feta until golden brown for the best flavor.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Don’t overcook the pasta; it should be al dente for the best texture.
- Avoid using low-fat feta, as it may not melt as well.
- Don’t skip tossing the pasta with the sauce while it’s hot for even coating.
Variations and Ingredient Swaps
- Vegetables: Add spinach, bell peppers, or zucchini for extra nutrition.
- Cheese: Try goat cheese instead of feta for a tangy twist.
- Protein: Add cooked chicken, shrimp, or tofu for added protein.
Serving and Presentation Ideas
- Serve the pasta with a side of garlic bread or a simple green salad.
- Garnish with extra basil and grated parmesan cheese for a touch of elegance.
- Serve in individual bowls for a restaurant-style presentation.
Storing Leftovers
- Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop with a splash of water or olive oil to keep the pasta moist.
FAQ
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes! You can bake the feta and tomatoes ahead of time, then toss with freshly cooked pasta when you’re ready to serve.
Can I use a different type of pasta?
Absolutely! Feel free to use any pasta shape you like, such as penne, rigatoni, or fusilli.
Can I make this dish dairy-free?
Yes, you can use dairy-free feta alternatives for a vegan-friendly version of this dish.
Conclusion
This Baked Feta Pasta is a creamy, flavorful dish that’s easy to make and perfect for any occasion. Give it a try, and don’t forget to share this recipe with your friends and family! If you enjoyed this recipe, make sure to subscribe to our blog for more delicious ideas.
SEO Details
- Title: Easy and Creamy Baked Feta Pasta Recipe
- Meta description: Discover the best Baked Feta Pasta recipe! Quick, creamy, and flavorful, this viral dish is perfect for any meal.
- Focus keyphrase: Baked Feta Pasta
- Keyphrase synonyms: Feta Pasta, Tomato Feta Pasta
Preparation time: 10 minutes
Cook time: 30 minutes
Total time: 40 minutes
Serves: 4 servings
Baked Feta Pasta
Equipment
- Baking dish
- Pot for boiling pasta
- Cutting board
- Knife
- Wooden spoon
- Colander
- Grater (optional, for garnishing with parmesan cheese)
Ingredients
- Cherry tomatoes - 500g about 2 cups
- Feta cheese - 200g 1 block
- Pasta - 300g penne, rigatoni, or your choice
- Olive oil - 4 tablespoons
- Garlic cloves - 4 cloves minced
- Salt - 1 teaspoon
- Black pepper - 1/2 teaspoon
- Dried oregano - 1 teaspoon
- Fresh basil leaves - 1/4 cup chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
- Step 1: Prepare the Tomatoes and Feta
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Place the cherry tomatoes in a baking dish.
- Add the block of feta cheese in the center of the dish.
- Drizzle olive oil over the tomatoes and feta.
- Sprinkle minced garlic, salt, black pepper, and dried oregano.
- Step 2: Bake Until Golden
- Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, until the tomatoes are blistered and the feta is golden and creamy.
- Step 3: Cook the Pasta
- While the feta and tomatoes are baking, cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente.
- Drain the pasta and set aside.
- Step 4: Combine and Mix
- Remove the baking dish from the oven.
- Use a wooden spoon to mash the feta and tomatoes together, creating a creamy sauce.
- Add the cooked pasta to the baking dish and toss until well coated.
- Step 5: Garnish and Serve
- Sprinkle chopped fresh basil over the pasta.
- Optionally, garnish with grated parmesan cheese for extra flavor.
- Serve hot and enjoy!
Notes
Yes! You can bake the feta and tomatoes ahead of time, then toss with freshly cooked pasta when you're ready to serve. Can I use a different type of pasta?
Absolutely! Feel free to use any pasta shape you like, such as penne, rigatoni, or fusilli. Can I make this dish dairy-free?
Yes, you can use dairy-free feta alternatives for a vegan-friendly version of this dish.