Baked Feta Pasta with Cherry Tomatoes: A Flavorful Twist on a Classic Dish

Introduction

Baked Feta Pasta with Cherry Tomatoes is a delightful, easy-to-make dish that has taken the internet by storm—and for good reason! The combination of creamy baked feta, juicy roasted cherry tomatoes, and perfectly cooked pasta is nothing short of magical. This recipe is the perfect mix of simplicity and flavor, making it ideal for weeknight dinners, casual gatherings, or when you just want something comforting yet exciting.

This dish became a sensation thanks to its viral popularity, and it’s easy to see why. With just a handful of ingredients and minimal prep work, you can create a delicious, restaurant-quality meal that everyone will rave about. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or a kitchen newbie, this recipe will be a hit. I first tried it during a busy week and was blown away by how little effort it required, while still delivering such amazing flavor. Let’s dive into why this Baked Feta Pasta with Cherry Tomatoes will become a staple in your kitchen!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Baked Feta Pasta with Cherry Tomatoes has many standout qualities that make it a must-try. First, it’s incredibly simple to make. All you need is a few staple ingredients: feta, tomatoes, pasta, olive oil, and herbs. The oven does most of the work, roasting the tomatoes and feta to create a creamy, tangy sauce that pairs beautifully with your pasta.

The flavor profile of this dish is truly impressive. The roasted cherry tomatoes become sweet and juicy, while the feta cheese turns into a creamy, melt-in-your-mouth sauce. The combination of the two is pure magic! You can also add your favorite herbs and spices to elevate the dish to your liking.

Not only is this dish full of flavor, but it’s also customizable. You can add extra vegetables like bell peppers or zucchini, or even toss in some protein like grilled chicken or shrimp for a more hearty meal. It’s also incredibly versatile—you can swap out the pasta type, use gluten-free pasta, or even try a dairy-free version by using a plant-based feta.

And of course, the best part—minimal cleanup. Since the feta and tomatoes bake together in one pan, you won’t have to deal with multiple pots and pans. This makes it a fantastic choice for busy nights when you don’t have much time to spare.

Preparation Time and Servings

• Total Time: 40 minutes (10 minutes prep, 30 minutes cooking)
• Servings: This recipe serves 4 people.
• Nutrition Facts (per serving):
• Calories: 450
• Protein: 14g
• Carbs: 42g
• Fat: 26g

Ingredients

For the Baked Feta:

• 1 block (8 oz) feta cheese (preferably block-style for better melting)
• 2 pints cherry tomatoes, halved
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon dried basil
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• Salt and pepper to taste

For the Pasta:

• 12 oz pasta (penne, spaghetti, or your preferred type)
• Fresh basil (optional, for garnish)
• Crushed red pepper flakes (optional, for a bit of heat)

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). This ensures the tomatoes and feta bake perfectly, giving them that beautiful roasted flavor.

Step 2: Prepare the Baking Dish

In a large baking dish (around 9×13 inches), add the cherry tomatoes, and toss them with 2 tablespoons of olive oil. Add 1 teaspoon of garlic powder, 1 teaspoon of dried oregano, 1 teaspoon of dried basil, and salt and pepper to taste. Stir everything together so that the tomatoes are evenly coated in the oil and seasoning.

Place the block of feta cheese in the center of the baking dish, surrounded by the seasoned tomatoes. Drizzle a little more olive oil over the feta and sprinkle with a pinch of extra oregano and basil.

Step 3: Roast the Feta and Tomatoes

Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and roast for 25-30 minutes, or until the feta is soft and slightly browned on top, and the tomatoes have burst and become tender. You should start to smell the delicious aromas filling your kitchen!

Step 4: 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 according to the package instructions, usually for about 8-10 minutes, until it’s just al dente. Be careful not to overcook it, as the pasta will continue cooking when mixed with the feta and tomatoes.

Once the pasta is cooked, drain it and set it aside, reserving about 1/2 cup of pasta water.

Step 5: Mash the Feta and Tomatoes

Once the feta and tomatoes are done roasting, remove the baking dish from the oven. Use a fork or spoon to mash the feta cheese into the tomatoes, stirring to create a creamy sauce. The feta will easily break apart and mix with the roasted tomatoes, forming a rich, creamy base.

Step 6: Combine the Pasta and Sauce

Add the drained pasta directly into the baking dish with the feta and tomato sauce. Toss everything together, making sure the pasta is well coated with the creamy feta mixture. If the sauce seems too thick, add a splash of the reserved pasta water, a tablespoon at a time, until you reach your desired consistency.

Step 7: Serve and Garnish

Serve the Baked Feta Pasta in bowls, and garnish with fresh basil leaves and a sprinkle of crushed red pepper flakes for a bit of heat. This dish is perfect as-is, but you can also serve it with a side of garlic bread or a light salad to balance the richness of the feta.

How to Serve

This Baked Feta Pasta is a meal in itself, but it pairs beautifully with several sides to create a well-rounded meal. For a light side, try a fresh garden salad with a tangy vinaigrette to cut through the creamy pasta. If you’re looking for something more filling, serve it with garlic bread or a crispy baguette to mop up the extra sauce.

For drinks, a light white wine like Pinot Grigio or Sauvignon Blanc pairs wonderfully with the creamy feta and fresh tomatoes. If you prefer something non-alcoholic, a sparkling lemon water adds a refreshing touch.

Additional Tips

1. Use a good quality feta: For the best flavor and texture, use a high-quality block-style feta rather than crumbled feta. The block will melt beautifully and create a smooth, creamy sauce.
2. Customize with veggies: If you want to pack in more veggies, consider adding zucchini, bell peppers, or even spinach to the baking dish along with the tomatoes.
3. Make it spicy: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or some chopped chili peppers to the tomatoes for a little extra heat and flavor.
4. Dairy-free version: If you’re avoiding dairy, try using a plant-based feta cheese alternative. Many great dairy-free options are available that still give you that creamy, tangy flavor.
5. Make it a meal prep dish: This Baked Feta Pasta can be easily made in advance. Simply assemble the dish, but don’t bake it until you’re ready to eat. It’s a perfect meal prep option for busy weeks.
6. Try different pasta shapes: While penne is ideal, you can swap in other pasta shapes like spaghetti, rigatoni, or fusilli depending on your preference.

Recipe Variations

• Add protein: Make this dish more filling by adding grilled chicken, shrimp, or Italian sausage. The creamy feta sauce pairs wonderfully with all types of protein.
• Use roasted garlic: For a deeper, richer flavor, try adding some roasted garlic to the tomatoes and feta before baking.
• Herb variations: You can mix up the herbs in the recipe. Try adding fresh thyme, rosemary, or parsley to enhance the flavors.

Serving Suggestions

To complement this Baked Feta Pasta, consider a simple side salad with mixed greens, cucumbers, and a light dressing. For an additional savory element, garlic bread or crispy breadsticks are great choices for soaking up the creamy sauce. If you want a bit of crunch, try serving a side of roasted vegetables, such as brussels sprouts or carrots.

For dessert, a light option like lemon sorbet or a fresh fruit salad can cleanse the palate after the richness of the pasta.

Storage and Leftovers

This Baked Feta Pasta is perfect for leftovers! Store any unused portion in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15 minutes, or microwave individual servings for a quicker option.

For long-term storage, you can freeze the baked pasta. Just ensure it’s well-covered in an airtight container or freezer-safe bag. It will last up to 2 months in the freezer. To reheat bake it directly from frozen, adding 10-15 minutes to the cook time.

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Conclusion

Baked Feta Pasta with Cherry Tomatoes is the perfect dish to bring a touch of elegance and simplicity to your table. The rich, creamy feta mixed with sweet, roasted tomatoes creates a flavor profile that is hard to beat. Whether you’re making it for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion, this dish is sure to impress with its ease and deliciousness. It’s a versatile recipe that can be customized with various herbs, veggies, or protein additions, making it adaptable to any taste.

If you’re looking for a quick yet flavorful pasta dish, look no further than this viral sensation. The combination of baked feta and cherry tomatoes is a match made in heaven, and the creamy sauce it creates is simply irresistible. Whether you serve it with a side of salad, garlic bread, or roasted vegetables, you can’t go wrong.

So grab your ingredients, preheat the oven, and get ready to indulge in this amazing Baked Feta Pasta with Cherry Tomatoes. You’ll love every bite!