Baked Feta Pasta

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Baked Feta Pasta is incredibly easy to make, with minimal ingredients and effort. As the feta cheese bakes with the tomatoes, it softens and becomes wonderfully creamy, creating a luscious sauce for the pasta. The addition of fresh basil gives it a vibrant, fresh finish, making it the perfect dish for any night of the week. Plus, it’s customizable—add your favorite veggies, spices, or protein to make it your own!

Ingredients

• 2 ½ cups grape tomatoes, washed and dried
• 1 (8 oz) brick of Feta cheese
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• ½ teaspoon salt
• 5 tablespoons olive oil
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh basil
• 12 oz bow tie pasta, cooked, drained, and kept warm

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

Directions

1. Preheat the Oven:

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).

2. Prepare the Baking Dish:

In a large baking dish, place the grape tomatoes. Drizzle with 3 tablespoons of olive oil, and sprinkle with Italian seasoning and salt. Mix well to coat the tomatoes evenly.

3. Add the Feta:

Place the block of feta cheese in the center of the dish, surrounded by the tomatoes. Drizzle the remaining 2 tablespoons of olive oil over the feta cheese.

4. Bake:

Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the tomatoes are bursting and the feta cheese is golden and soft.

5. Cook the Pasta:

While the feta and tomatoes bake, cook the bow tie pasta according to package instructions. Drain and keep warm.

6. Combine:

Once the feta and tomatoes are done baking, remove the dish from the oven. Using a spoon or fork, mash the feta and tomatoes together, mixing until a creamy sauce forms.

7. Toss with Pasta:

Add the cooked, drained pasta to the baking dish and toss to coat the pasta with the creamy feta sauce. Add the chopped fresh basil and stir to combine.

8. Serve:

Serve immediately, garnished with more basil or a sprinkle of extra feta cheese if desired.

Servings and Timing

• Prep time: 10 minutes
• Cooking time: 30 minutes
• Total time: 40 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings

Notes

• Pasta Options: Feel free to use any pasta shape you prefer, such as penne, rigatoni, or spaghetti.
• Herb Variations: In place of Italian seasoning, you can add fresh or dried oregano, thyme, or rosemary for a different flavor.
• Add-ins: You can add vegetables like spinach, zucchini, or bell peppers for extra texture and flavor.
• Make It a Meal: Add some grilled chicken or shrimp to make it a more substantial meal.

Variations

• Vegan Version: Use a plant-based feta cheese substitute and ensure the pasta is egg-free for a vegan-friendly version of this recipe.
• Extra Creamy: If you prefer a creamier sauce, you can add a splash of heavy cream or a few tablespoons of cream cheese when mashing the feta and tomatoes together.

Storage/Reheating

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10-15 minutes or in the microwave until heated through.

FAQs

Can I use cherry tomatoes instead of grape tomatoes?

Yes, cherry tomatoes work just as well in this recipe. Both grape and cherry tomatoes have a similar size and sweetness when roasted.

Can I use crumbled feta instead of a block?

While the block of feta gives a creamier sauce, you can use crumbled feta. Just keep in mind the texture of the sauce may be slightly different.

Can I freeze the leftovers?

Yes, you can freeze the baked feta pasta. Let it cool completely, then store it in an airtight container in the freezer for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight and reheat in the oven or microwave.

Conclusion

This Baked Feta Pasta is a simple yet indulgent dish that combines the richness of feta cheese and the sweetness of roasted tomatoes. With just a few ingredients, you can create a creamy, savory pasta dish that’s sure to satisfy any craving. It’s quick to make, customizable, and perfect for busy weeknights or any time you’re craving a delicious, comforting meal!

Print