Baked Feta Pasta

Baked Feta Pasta has become a viral sensation, and for good reason! This easy yet delicious dish combines sweet roasted grape tomatoes with a creamy, melty feta cheese that transforms into a luscious sauce when mixed with pasta. The combination of Italian seasoning and fresh basil adds depth and fragrance to the dish, while the bow tie pasta soaks up all the rich, savory flavors. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner or something to impress at your next gathering, this baked feta pasta is the perfect option.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

1. Simple Ingredients, Big Flavor

With just a few key ingredients, including feta cheese, tomatoes, and pasta, this dish is bursting with flavor. The feta cheese melts into a creamy sauce that pairs perfectly with the sweetness of roasted tomatoes.

2. Minimal Prep

This dish requires minimal prep time. Simply toss the ingredients in a baking dish and let the oven do the work while you get the pasta ready.

3. Crowd-Pleaser

This recipe is sure to impress. The creamy feta sauce and roasted tomatoes offer a comforting, satisfying flavor that everyone will love.

4. Perfect for Busy Nights

Baked Feta Pasta is ready in under an hour, making it a great choice for busy weeknights when you want something quick but delicious.

5. Customizable

Feel free to customize the recipe by adding extra vegetables like spinach or bell peppers, or even swapping out the pasta shape for another kind.

Ingredients

• Grape tomatoes
• 8 oz block of feta cheese
• Italian seasoning
• Salt
• Olive oil
• Fresh basil, chopped
• Bow tie pasta (cooked, drained, and kept warm)

Variations

• Add Protein: Add grilled chicken, shrimp, or bacon to turn this dish into a heartier meal.
• Vegetarian Option: This recipe is already vegetarian, but you can add more veggies like zucchini, spinach, or olives for a Mediterranean twist.
• Vegan Version: Swap the feta for a dairy-free feta or nutritional yeast to make this recipe vegan.

How to Make the Recipe

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).

Step 2: Prepare the Baking Dish

In a baking dish, add the grape tomatoes, drizzle with 2 tablespoons of olive oil, and sprinkle with Italian seasoning and salt. Stir to combine.

Step 3: Add the Feta

Place the block of feta cheese in the center of the baking dish, surrounded by the tomatoes. Drizzle the feta with the remaining 3 tablespoons of olive oil.

Step 4: Bake

Bake the dish in the preheated oven for 35-40 minutes, or until the tomatoes have burst and the feta is golden and soft.

Step 5: Cook the Pasta

While the feta and tomatoes are baking, cook the pasta according to package instructions. Drain and keep warm.

Step 6: Combine the Pasta and Sauce

Once the feta and tomatoes are done, remove the dish from the oven. Using a spoon, break the feta cheese into the tomatoes and stir to create a creamy sauce.

Step 7: Mix with Pasta

Add the cooked pasta to the baking dish and toss everything together until the pasta is coated in the creamy feta sauce.

Step 8: Garnish and Serve

Sprinkle the dish with fresh basil, and serve immediately while it’s warm.

Tips for Making the Recipe

• Use a Block of Feta: For the creamiest sauce, be sure to use a block of feta, not crumbled feta.
• Don’t Skip the Roasting: Roasting the tomatoes brings out their natural sweetness and enhances the flavor of the dish.
• Adjust the Seasoning: Taste the sauce before mixing with the pasta and add extra salt or pepper if needed.
• Use Fresh Basil: Fresh basil adds a fragrant touch to the dish, making it more vibrant and flavorful.

How to Serve

This Baked Feta Pasta is delicious on its own, but you can pair it with a side salad or garlic bread for a complete meal. A glass of white wine, like Pinot Grigio or Sauvignon Blanc, would also be a perfect accompaniment.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store any leftover baked feta pasta in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of olive oil or water to loosen the sauce if needed.

Freezing

This dish is best enjoyed fresh but can be frozen for up to 2-3 months. To freeze, allow it to cool completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe container. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

Reheating

To reheat, place the leftovers in a skillet over low heat, adding a bit of olive oil or water to restore the sauce’s creaminess. You can also reheat it in the microwave.

FAQs

1. Can I use cherry tomatoes instead of grape tomatoes?

Yes, cherry tomatoes work well in this recipe as a substitute for grape tomatoes.

2. Can I use crumbled feta cheese?

While you can use crumbled feta, it won’t create the same creamy texture as the block of feta. We recommend using a block of feta for best results.

3. Can I use a different type of pasta?

Absolutely! Feel free to use any pasta shape you prefer, such as penne, fusilli, or spaghetti.

4. Can I add more vegetables?

Yes, adding vegetables like spinach, zucchini, or bell peppers is a great way to increase the veggie content of this dish.

5. Is this recipe gluten-free?

This recipe is not gluten-free due to the pasta. However, you can substitute gluten-free pasta to make it suitable for those with dietary restrictions.

6. Can I make this ahead of time?

You can prepare the pasta and sauce ahead of time, but it’s best to bake it fresh for the most delicious results.

7. Can I use dried herbs instead of fresh basil?

Yes, you can use dried basil in place of fresh basil, but fresh basil will provide the best flavor.

8. How do I make this dish spicier?

Add red pepper flakes or a diced jalapeño to the tomatoes before baking to add some heat.

9. Can I make this dish vegetarian?

Yes, the recipe is already vegetarian, but you can make it more hearty by adding other vegetables or plant-based proteins.

10. Can I add protein to this dish?

Yes, grilled chicken, shrimp, or even sausage would make a great addition to this dish.

Conclusion

Baked Feta Pasta is an easy, flavorful, and comforting dish that’s sure to become a household favorite. With simple ingredients and minimal effort, you can create a creamy, savory pasta meal that’s bursting with Mediterranean flavors. Whether you’re preparing it for a quick weeknight dinner or for a special occasion, this dish is versatile, customizable, and always delicious. Try it once, and you’ll find yourself making it again and again!

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