If you’re looking for a dish that’s both easy and irresistibly delicious, baked feta pasta is your answer. With just a handful of ingredients, you can create a rich, creamy sauce right in the oven — perfect for busy weeknights or cozy weekends. This one-pan wonder combines juicy cherry tomatoes, tangy feta cheese, garlic, and pasta for a crowd-pleasing meal.
Ingredients
Main:
- 200g pasta (fusilli or penne recommended)
- 200g block of feta cheese
- 2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved
Additional:
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- ¼ cup olive oil
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- Salt and pepper to taste
- ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- Fresh basil leaves, for garnish
Instructions
Step 1 – Preheat the Oven
Heat your oven to 400°F (200°C) so it’s ready for even baking.
Step 2 – Arrange the Dish
Place the block of feta cheese in the center of a large baking dish. Surround it with the halved cherry tomatoes and minced garlic.
Step 3 – Add Seasoning
Drizzle olive oil over the feta and tomatoes. Sprinkle with oregano, salt, pepper, and optional red pepper flakes for heat.
Step 4 – Bake
Bake for 25–30 minutes until the feta is soft and slightly golden, and the tomatoes are blistered and juicy.
Step 5 – Cook the Pasta
While the feta bakes, cook pasta according to package directions until al dente. Reserve ½ cup of pasta water.
Step 6 – Create the Sauce
Mash the baked feta and tomatoes together in the dish until creamy. If the sauce is too thick, add a splash of the reserved pasta water.
Step 7 – Combine & Serve
Add the pasta to the baking dish, tossing until evenly coated. Adjust seasoning to taste. Garnish with fresh basil and serve hot.
Tips for Perfect Baked Feta Pasta
- Best pasta shape: Fusilli and penne hold the sauce well, but you can use any shape you love.
- Creamy texture: Mash feta thoroughly with the tomato juices before mixing in pasta.
- Check oven time: Some ovens cook faster; start checking at 25 minutes.
- Gluten-free option: Use your favorite gluten-free pasta.
- Vegan version: Replace feta with plant-based alternatives that melt well.
Variations
- Cheese swaps: Try goat cheese, ricotta, or cream cheese for a different flavor profile.
- Veggie boost: Add spinach, bell peppers, or roasted zucchini.
- Protein add-ins: Mix in grilled chicken, shrimp, or chickpeas for a heartier meal.
- Extra flavor: Fresh thyme, rosemary, or a touch of chili oil for spice lovers.
Serving Suggestions
Pair with:
- A fresh green salad
- Crispy garlic bread
- A chilled glass of Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio
Storage & Reheating
- Fridge: Store in an airtight container for 3–5 days.
- Reheat: For best texture, warm in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 15 minutes, covered with foil.
- Microwave: Heat in short bursts, adding a splash of water or olive oil to keep it creamy.
- Freezer: Freeze cooled portions in airtight containers for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight before reheating.
FAQs
Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes — bake the feta and tomatoes in advance, store separately from the pasta, then combine before serving.
Why isn’t my feta melting?
Use a full-fat block of feta and bake until it’s soft and spreadable.
What’s the best pasta water ratio to add?
Start with 2–3 tablespoons, adding more as needed to loosen the sauce.
