Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Baked Feta Pasta is a crowd-pleaser, with a rich and tangy feta sauce that blends seamlessly with the tomatoes and pasta. The dish is easy to prepare, requiring minimal ingredients, and the oven does most of the work for you. The combination of feta and roasted cherry tomatoes creates a creamy, flavorful sauce that coats the pasta perfectly. Plus, it’s customizable with optional red pepper flakes for a bit of heat, or fresh basil and parsley for extra freshness.

Ingredients

2 pints cherry tomatoes
1/2 cup extra-virgin olive oil
1 block feta cheese (8 ounces)
1 teaspoon dried oregano
1 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon freshly cracked black pepper
2 teaspoons minced garlic
8 ounces uncooked pasta
8 fresh basil leaves
1/4 cup fresh parsley
1 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
In a baking dish, combine the cherry tomatoes, olive oil, oregano, salt, pepper, and garlic. Mix well to coat the tomatoes evenly.
Place the block of feta cheese in the center of the baking dish, ensuring the tomatoes are surrounding it.
Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the tomatoes burst and the feta becomes golden and creamy.
While the feta and tomatoes are baking, cook the pasta according to the package directions. Reserve 1/2 cup of pasta cooking water before draining.
Once the feta and tomatoes are done, remove from the oven. Use a spoon or fork to mash the tomatoes and feta together to create a creamy sauce.
Add the cooked pasta to the baking dish and toss everything together. If the sauce is too thick, add some of the reserved pasta water to loosen it up.
Sprinkle fresh basil, parsley, and red pepper flakes (if using) over the pasta and serve immediately.

Servings and Timing

Servings: 4
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 40 minutes

Variations

Vegetarian: This recipe is naturally vegetarian.
Spicy: Add extra red pepper flakes or even a sliced jalapeño for some heat.
Herb Variations: Feel free to use fresh thyme, rosemary, or oregano instead of basil and parsley for a different flavor profile.
Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free pasta to make this dish gluten-free.
Add Protein: You can add grilled chicken or shrimp to the pasta for extra protein.

Storage/Reheating

Storage: Leftover Baked Feta Pasta can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheating: To reheat, simply warm the pasta in the microwave or on the stovetop with a splash of water or olive oil to keep the sauce creamy.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of cheese instead of feta?

Yes, you can substitute feta with goat cheese or ricotta for a different flavor profile.

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

You can prepare the feta and tomato mixture ahead of time and refrigerate it, then bake it when you’re ready to serve. However, it’s best to cook the pasta fresh.

Can I use frozen tomatoes?

Fresh tomatoes are recommended, but frozen tomatoes can work in a pinch. Just be sure to thaw them and drain any excess water before baking.

What type of pasta works best for this recipe?

Any pasta works well, but short pasta shapes like penne, rigatoni, or fusilli will help the sauce cling better.

Can I make this recipe without garlic?

Yes, you can omit the garlic, though it does add a nice flavor to the sauce.

Can I use store-bought marinara sauce instead of the baked tomato and feta sauce?

While it’s not the same, you can use store-bought marinara as a substitute. The result will be a bit different but still delicious.

How can I add more flavor to the sauce?

You can add a pinch of red pepper flakes, a squeeze of lemon juice, or fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary to elevate the sauce.

Can I freeze this recipe?

It’s not ideal to freeze the pasta once it’s mixed, as the texture of the feta and tomatoes may change. However, you can freeze the baked tomato and feta sauce before mixing it with the pasta.

Can I use whole wheat or gluten-free pasta?

Yes, whole wheat or gluten-free pasta can be substituted in this recipe to suit dietary preferences.

Can I double the recipe?

Yes, you can easily double the ingredients to make a larger batch. Just make sure your baking dish is big enough to accommodate the extra ingredients.

Conclusion

Baked Feta Pasta is a flavorful, easy-to-make dish that will impress your family or guests. With minimal ingredients and a quick baking time, this meal comes together effortlessly. It’s a great option for busy weeknights or when you want something comforting and satisfying. Plus, it’s customizable to suit your preferences, whether you want it spicy, herby, or with extra protein. Enjoy!