This baked feta pasta is a simple yet delicious dish that combines creamy feta cheese with sweet cherry tomatoes, creating a flavorful sauce that coats the pasta perfectly.
The recipe is easy to follow and requires minimal ingredients, making it a great option for a quick weeknight dinner or a satisfying meal any time.
Ingredients That Shine
This baked feta pasta relies on a handful of key ingredients that come together to create a delightful dish. The star of the show is the creamy feta cheese, which melts beautifully over the roasted cherry tomatoes, forming a luscious sauce.
Cherry tomatoes bring a burst of sweetness and vibrant color, while olive oil adds richness. Garlic and oregano infuse the dish with aromatic flavors, enhancing the overall taste. A sprinkle of salt and pepper rounds out the seasoning, ensuring every bite is satisfying.
Preparation Made Simple
Preparing this dish is straightforward and quick, making it perfect for busy weeknights. Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). In a baking dish, combine halved cherry tomatoes, olive oil, minced garlic, dried oregano, salt, and pepper. Nestle the block of feta cheese right in the center for optimal roasting.
Once everything is in place, let the oven do its magic. Bake for about 25 minutes until the tomatoes are blistered and the feta is soft and golden. This step creates a creamy, flavorful base for the pasta.
Cooking the Pasta
While the feta and tomatoes are baking, it’s time to cook your pasta. Choose your favorite type, whether it’s penne or fusilli, and prepare it according to the package instructions until it reaches that perfect al dente texture.
Once cooked, drain the pasta and set it aside. This timing is key, as you want the pasta to be ready to combine with the roasted feta and tomatoes right after they come out of the oven.
Bringing It All Together
After removing the baking dish from the oven, stir the roasted tomatoes and melted feta together to create a creamy sauce. The warmth of the pasta will help to meld the flavors even further.
Add the cooked pasta to the baking dish and toss everything together until well combined. The creamy sauce should coat the pasta beautifully, creating a comforting and satisfying meal.
Garnishing for Flavor
No dish is complete without a finishing touch. Garnish your baked feta pasta with fresh basil leaves for a pop of color and a hint of freshness. If desired, a sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese adds an extra layer of flavor.
Serve the pasta hot, ideally in a rustic bowl that complements the dish’s inviting appearance. A fork resting beside it invites everyone to dig in and enjoy this delightful meal.
Perfect for Any Occasion
This baked feta pasta is not only quick to prepare but also versatile enough for various occasions. Whether it’s a casual weeknight dinner or a gathering with friends, this dish is sure to impress.
With its vibrant colors and rich flavors, it’s a meal that brings comfort and satisfaction. Plus, the simplicity of the ingredients makes it accessible for cooks of all skill levels.
Easy Baked Feta Pasta Recipe
This dish features cherry tomatoes roasted with feta cheese until bubbly and golden, then tossed with cooked pasta for a delightful meal. 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
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh basil for garnish
- Grated Parmesan cheese for serving (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, olive oil, minced garlic, oregano, salt, and pepper. Place the block of feta cheese in the center.
- Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for about 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 tomatoes and feta together to create a creamy sauce. Add the cooked pasta to the dish and toss until well combined.
- Serve: Garnish with fresh basil and grated Parmesan cheese if desired. Serve hot.
Cook and Prep Times
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Servings: 4 servings
- Calories: 450kcal
- Fat: 20g
- Protein: 15g
- Carbohydrates: 55g