![- 200g pasta (penne or fusilli) - 1 block (200g) feta cheese - 2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved - 1/4 cup extra-virgin olive oil - 4 cloves garlic, minced - 1 teaspoon dried oregano - 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional) - Salt and black pepper to taste - Fresh basil leaves for garnish - Grated Parmesan cheese for serving (optional) - You can use any pasta you like, such as spaghetti or rotini. - For a dairy-free option, try using a plant-based feta cheese. - Feel free to add seasonal veggies like zucchini or spinach for more flavor. Using different ingredients can change the taste and make this dish your own. 1. Preheat the oven and prep the baking dish Start by setting your oven to 400°F (200°C). This ensures even baking for your meal. Grab a large baking dish. This is where you will mix all your ingredients. 2. Prepare the cherry tomatoes and garlic mixture Take 2 cups of cherry tomatoes and cut them in half. Place the halved tomatoes in the baking dish. Next, mince 4 cloves of garlic. Add the garlic to the tomatoes. Drizzle 1/4 cup of extra-virgin olive oil over the mix. Season it with salt and black pepper. Add 1 teaspoon of dried oregano and, if you like heat, 1/2 teaspoon of red pepper flakes. Mix everything gently to coat the tomatoes and garlic. 1. Baking time and temperatures explained Place a block of feta cheese in the center of the tomato mix. Bake this dish for 25-30 minutes. You want the tomatoes to burst, and the feta should turn golden and soft. Keep an eye on it, as oven times may vary. 2. How to identify when the dish is ready After 25 minutes, check your dish. The tomatoes should be soft and juicy. The feta should look melted and slightly browned. This is the perfect time to take it out. 1. Mixing the baked ingredients with pasta While the feta and tomatoes are baking, cook 200g of pasta in a pot of salted boiling water. Follow the package instructions for the best texture. Once cooked, drain the pasta. After taking the baking dish out of the oven, use a fork to mash the feta into the tomatoes. Mix them well until you get a creamy sauce. Add the drained pasta to the dish. Toss everything together, ensuring the pasta is well coated. 2. Adjusting seasonings before serving Taste your dish. If it needs more flavor, add extra salt, black pepper, or red pepper flakes. Serve hot, and finish with fresh basil leaves on top. You can also sprinkle grated Parmesan cheese if you wish. Enjoy this simple and tasty weeknight meal! For a full guide on this recipe, check out the Full Recipe. To make perfect pasta, cook it until it's al dente. This means it should be firm yet tender. Follow the package instructions for time. Remember to salt the water; it adds flavor. After draining, toss the pasta with a bit of olive oil to prevent sticking. Roasting tomatoes is easy. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Place halved cherry tomatoes in a baking dish. Drizzle them with olive oil and season with salt. Bake until they burst and soften. This brings out their natural sweetness and flavor. Choose high-quality feta cheese for the best taste. Look for feta made from sheep's milk or a blend. Avoid pre-crumbled feta; it lacks the creamy texture. A block of feta melts nicely with the tomatoes, creating a rich sauce. Olive oil is key to this dish. Use extra-virgin olive oil for its fruity flavor. It enhances both the feta and tomatoes. A good oil can elevate the entire meal. Don't skimp; it makes a big difference. Baked Feta Pasta pairs well with a simple green salad. This adds freshness and crunch. Garlic bread is another great side. It soaks up the tasty sauce and complements the dish. For plating, use a large bowl. Spoon the pasta into the center. Garnish with fresh basil and a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese. This makes the dish look even more inviting. {{image_2}} You can make Baked Feta Pasta even more tasty. Adding spices or fresh herbs can change the flavor. I love using fresh basil or thyme. You can also try adding a pinch of garlic powder or onion powder for extra taste. Want to boost protein? You can add chicken or shrimp. Cook the protein separately, then mix it in with the pasta. This makes the meal hearty and filling. If you want a vegan version, swap out the feta cheese. There are great dairy-free feta options made from nuts. You can also skip the cheese entirely. Just add more veggies and spices to keep it flavorful. For gluten-free pasta, use pasta made from rice or quinoa. These options work well and taste great. You won’t miss the regular pasta at all. Seasonal vegetables can change the dish's vibe. In summer, add zucchini or bell peppers. In fall, use butternut squash or spinach. Just toss in what you find fresh at the market. Adjusting flavors based on what you have is also fun. If you have lemon, add a squeeze for brightness. If you find fresh cherry tomatoes, use those instead of canned. Always feel free to mix it up! For the full recipe, check out [Full Recipe]. To keep your Baked Feta Pasta fresh, store it in an airtight container. Let the dish cool before sealing it. Place it in the fridge within two hours of cooking. This helps keep bacteria away. Eat the leftovers within three to four days for the best taste. When reheating, you want to keep that creamy texture. The oven works best for this. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the pasta in a baking dish and cover it with foil. Heat for about 15-20 minutes. If you’re short on time, you can use the microwave. Place a portion in a microwave-safe bowl. Heat for one to two minutes, stirring halfway. This method is quick but may dry out the pasta a bit. Always check that it's hot before serving. Enjoy your delicious Baked Feta Pasta over again! How do I store leftovers of Baked Feta Pasta? To store leftovers, put them in an airtight container. Keep the pasta in the fridge. It will stay fresh for up to three days. When you want to eat it, just reheat it. Can I use crumbled feta instead of a block? Yes, you can use crumbled feta. It will melt nicely. Just be sure to adjust the baking time. Crumbled feta may cook faster than a block. What’s the best way to serve Baked Feta Pasta? Serve Baked Feta Pasta hot, straight from the oven. Add fresh basil on top for color and taste. A sprinkle of grated Parmesan can also enhance the dish. How long does Baked Feta Pasta take to make? Baked Feta Pasta takes about 40 minutes total. This includes 10 minutes of prep time and 25-30 minutes of baking. Can I make Baked Feta Pasta ahead of time? You can prep the dish ahead of time. Mix the tomatoes, garlic, and feta in a baking dish. Cover it and store it in the fridge. Bake it when you’re ready to eat. Is Baked Feta Pasta suitable for meal prep? Yes, it is great for meal prep! You can make a big batch and divide it into portions. It reheats well and tastes great later. Baked Feta Pasta combines simple ingredients into a delicious dish. We covered essential items, clever swaps, and easy steps for preparation. You learned about tips for perfect cooking and creative variations. I hope you feel ready to try this recipe in your kitchen. Cooking can be fun and simple. Enjoy the flavors, and don’t forget to share your results!](https://soyumrecipes.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/06/d9ad6c35-3df6-49db-8309-8a9e2e0becd3-250x250.webp)
Baked Feta Pasta
Discover the mouthwatering Baked Feta Pasta Delight that everyone is raving about! This easy recipe combines creamy feta cheese, juicy cherry tomatoes, and perfectly cooked pasta for a dish that's bursting with flavor. In just 40 minutes, you can create a delicious meal that's perfect for any occasion. Ready to impress your family and friends?