Baked feta pasta is a simple yet delicious dish that has gained popularity for its creamy texture and flavorful ingredients. This recipe combines baked feta cheese with cherry tomatoes, garlic, and pasta, creating a satisfying meal that’s easy to prepare.
The dish is perfect for a weeknight dinner and can be customized with your favorite herbs or vegetables. It’s a great way to enjoy a comforting pasta dish with minimal effort.
Overview of Baked Feta Pasta
Baked feta pasta has captured the hearts of many with its creamy texture and delightful flavors. This dish combines the richness of baked feta cheese with the sweetness of roasted cherry tomatoes and aromatic garlic.
Perfect for a weeknight meal, it offers a comforting experience without demanding too much time or effort. With just a few ingredients, you can create a satisfying dish that feels indulgent.
Ingredients That Shine
The key components of this dish include a block of feta cheese, which becomes wonderfully creamy when baked, and cherry tomatoes that burst with flavor. Garlic adds depth, while olive oil brings everything together.
Seasoned with oregano, salt, and pepper, the combination is simple yet effective. Fresh basil leaves add a touch of brightness, enhancing the overall presentation and taste.
Preparation Steps
To start, preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). In a baking dish, mix the halved cherry tomatoes, minced garlic, olive oil, oregano, salt, and pepper. Place the feta cheese block in the center, allowing it to soak up the flavors.
After baking for about 20-25 minutes, the tomatoes will blister, and the feta will soften. Meanwhile, cook your choice of pasta until al dente, then drain and set aside.
Combining the Ingredients
Once the feta and tomatoes are ready, remove the dish from the oven. Stir the ingredients together until they form a creamy sauce. Then, add the cooked pasta to the dish and toss everything to combine.
This step is crucial, as it allows the pasta to absorb the rich flavors from the sauce, creating a harmonious dish that is both comforting and satisfying.
Serving Suggestions
For an appealing presentation, serve the baked feta pasta in a rustic bowl. Garnish with fresh basil leaves for a pop of color and added freshness. A fork placed beside the bowl invites everyone to dig in.
This dish pairs well with a simple green salad or crusty bread, making it a versatile option for any meal. Enjoy it warm, and savor the delightful combination of flavors.
Nutrition and Serving Size
This recipe serves four, making it ideal for family dinners or gatherings. Each serving contains approximately 350 calories, with a balance of carbohydrates, protein, and healthy fats.
With 18 grams of fat and 12 grams of protein, it provides a satisfying meal that can keep you energized throughout the day. Adjust the portion sizes as needed to fit your dietary preferences.
Easy Baked Feta Pasta Recipe
This baked feta pasta features a block of feta cheese baked until creamy, mixed with roasted cherry tomatoes and garlic, then tossed with cooked pasta. The recipe takes about 30 minutes from start to finish and serves 4 people.
Ingredients
- 8 ounces pasta of your choice (penne or fusilli work well)
- 1 block (8 ounces) feta cheese
- 2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh basil for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Prepare the Baking Dish: In a baking dish, combine the cherry tomatoes, minced garlic, olive oil, oregano, salt, and pepper. Place the block of feta cheese in the center.
- Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the tomatoes are blistered and the feta is soft and golden.
- Cook the Pasta: While the feta and tomatoes are baking, cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- Combine: Remove the baking dish from the oven and stir the feta and tomatoes together until creamy. Add the cooked pasta to the dish and toss to combine.
- Serve: Garnish with fresh basil if desired, and serve warm.
Cook and Prep Times
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Servings: 4 servings
- Calories: 350kcal
- Fat: 18g
- Protein: 12g
- Carbohydrates: 38g