Baked Feta Pasta Recipe

I still remember the first time I made baked feta pasta. Like many, I stumbled across this dish while scrolling through social media, watching countless videos of tomatoes bursting, feta melting, and everything blending into a creamy, dreamy sauce. It looked too good to be true—could something this simple really taste as amazing as everyone claimed? The answer was a resounding yes.

Baked feta pasta is the ultimate easy sheet pan dinner. With just a handful of ingredients, minimal prep work, and a single baking dish, you can create a restaurant-worthy meal at home. Whether you’re a beginner cook or just looking for a stress-free recipe, this dish is foolproof. It’s packed with bright, tangy flavors from the tomatoes and feta, balanced with aromatic herbs and a drizzle of olive oil. Plus, it’s a quick and healthy meal that requires almost no effort.

Why This Recipe is Special

The beauty of baked feta pasta lies in its simplicity. Unlike traditional pasta sauces that require simmering and constant stirring, this recipe lets the oven do all the work. As the tomatoes roast, they release their natural juices, creating a rich, slightly sweet sauce. The feta softens and blends into the mix, forming a creamy, salty base that coats every bite of pasta perfectly.

Another reason this dish is so popular is its versatility. You can easily customize it by swapping ingredients, adding extra vegetables, or adjusting the seasoning to your taste. Plus, it’s a fantastic way to use up pantry staples, making it a budget-friendly option for weeknight dinners.

Ingredients and Preparation

Here’s what you’ll need to make baked feta pasta:

• Grape or Cherry Tomatoes: These small tomatoes are ideal because they burst easily when roasted, creating a juicy sauce. If you don’t have them, you can use chopped Roma or vine-ripened tomatoes.
• Feta Cheese: The star of the show. Feta adds a creamy, tangy flavor to the dish. If you’re not a fan of feta, try goat cheese, ricotta, or even a mild cream cheese.
• Olive Oil: Essential for roasting the tomatoes and giving the dish a smooth, rich texture. High-quality extra virgin olive oil works best.
• Italian Seasoning: A blend of herbs that enhances the flavor. If you don’t have Italian seasoning, use dried oregano, basil, or thyme.
• Salt: A little bit of salt brings out the flavors of the tomatoes and cheese. Be careful not to add too much since feta is already salty.
• Fresh Basil: Adds a bright, herby finish. If you don’t have fresh basil, you can use basil pesto, but reduce the olive oil slightly.
• Pasta: Bow tie pasta is commonly used, but you can swap it for penne, rotini, or any short pasta.
• Optional Add-ins: Want to mix things up? Try adding roasted bell peppers, olives, spinach, or even a handful of arugula for extra greens.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

Set your oven to 350°F (175°C). While it heats up, gather your ingredients.

Step 2: Arrange the Ingredients in a Baking Dish

Place the tomatoes in a medium-sized baking dish. Make sure they’re evenly spread out so they roast properly. Position the block of feta cheese in the center.

Step 3: Drizzle with Olive Oil and Seasoning

Pour 3 tablespoons of olive oil over the tomatoes and feta. Sprinkle Italian seasoning and salt over the top. Then, drizzle the remaining 2 tablespoons of olive oil directly onto the feta to help it soften and melt.

Step 4: Bake Until Soft and Bubbly

Place the dish in the oven and bake for 30–35 minutes. The tomatoes should burst, releasing their juices, and the feta should be soft and slightly golden on top.

Step 5: Stir Everything Together

Once out of the oven, use a fork or spoon to mash the feta and mix it with the roasted tomatoes. The result should be a rich, creamy sauce.

Step 6: Add the Pasta and Basil

Stir in the chopped fresh basil and the warm, cooked pasta. Toss everything together until the pasta is fully coated in the sauce.

Step 7: Serve and Enjoy

Serve immediately while warm. The flavors are at their best when fresh, but leftovers store well too.

Beginner Tips and Notes

• How to Tell When the Tomatoes Are Ready: The tomatoes should look wrinkled and slightly burst. If they haven’t popped open, gently press them with a spoon to release their juices.
• If the Sauce Is Too Thick: Add a splash of pasta water or a drizzle of olive oil to loosen it up.
• What to Do If the Feta Doesn’t Melt Completely: Not all feta brands melt the same way. If your cheese stays crumbly, mash it with a fork and mix well with the tomatoes.
• Want a Spicy Kick? Add red pepper flakes or a pinch of cayenne pepper to amp up the heat.

Serving Suggestions

• Pair It with a Side Salad: A simple arugula or Greek salad with a lemon vinaigrette pairs perfectly.
• Add Protein: Grilled chicken, shrimp, or chickpeas make great additions.
• Make It a One-Pan Meal: Toss in some sliced zucchini, mushrooms, or bell peppers before baking for extra veggies.
• Bread on the Side: Serve with crusty bread to scoop up every last bit of sauce.

Storage Tips

If you have leftovers, let the pasta cool to room temperature before transferring it to an airtight container. Store in the refrigerator for up to four days.

To reheat: Add a tablespoon of water and microwave in 30-second intervals until warm. Stir in a little olive oil to refresh the flavors. Freezing is not recommended, as the texture may change.

Ready to Try It?

This easy baked feta pasta recipe is proof that simple ingredients can create incredible flavors. Whether you’re cooking for yourself or impressing friends and family, this dish is a guaranteed winner. Give it a try and let me know how it turned out in the comments. Happy cooking!

FAQ About Baked Feta Pasta

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