This Baked Feta Pasta is a creamy, tangy, and utterly delicious dish that went viral for good reason! Roasted cherry tomatoes, melty feta cheese, and al dente pasta come together in one effortless and flavor-packed meal. Perfect for weeknights when you want something quick, comforting, and full of Mediterranean flavors.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Easy & Minimal Prep – Just toss everything in a baking dish and let the oven do the work.
- Rich & Creamy – The feta melts into a luscious sauce when mixed with the roasted tomatoes.
- Customizable – Add protein, extra veggies, or swap the pasta to suit your preferences.
- One-Pan Wonder – Less cleanup, more flavor!
Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this flavorful dish:
- Cherry tomatoes – Roasts into sweet, jammy perfection.
- Feta cheese block – The star ingredient that creates the creamy sauce.
- Olive oil – Adds richness and helps everything caramelize beautifully.
- Garlic cloves – Infuses the dish with bold, aromatic flavor.
- Red pepper flakes – Adds a hint of spice (optional but recommended!).
- Italian seasoning – Brings depth with a mix of dried herbs.
- Salt & pepper – Enhances all the flavors.
- Pasta of choice – Short pasta like penne, fusilli, or rigatoni works best.
- Fresh basil – A bright, herby finish to balance the richness.
- Parmesan cheese (optional) – For extra cheesy goodness.
👉 Note: Exact measurements are listed in the recipe card below!
How to Make Baked Feta Pasta
Step 1: Roast the Tomatoes & Feta
Preheat your oven to 400°F. In a baking dish, add cherry tomatoes, whole garlic cloves, and a generous drizzle of olive oil. Place the feta block in the center, season with Italian seasoning, red pepper flakes, salt, and pepper. Bake for 30 minutes until the tomatoes burst and the feta is soft.
Step 2: Cook the Pasta
While the feta and tomatoes bake, cook the pasta according to the package instructions. Reserve ½ cup of pasta water before draining.
Step 3: Mash & Mix
Remove the baking dish from the oven and use a fork to mash the softened feta and tomatoes together, creating a creamy sauce.
Step 4: Combine Everything
Add the cooked pasta to the baking dish and toss to coat. If needed, add some reserved pasta water to loosen the sauce.
Step 5: Garnish & Serve
Stir in fresh basil, sprinkle with Parmesan cheese if using, and serve warm. Enjoy!
Pro Tips for Making the Recipe
- Use a Block of Feta – Crumbled feta won’t melt the same way, so stick to a solid block.
- Roast Until Tomatoes Burst – This creates the best sauce consistency.
- Save Some Pasta Water – Helps adjust the sauce thickness.
- Add Protein – Toss in cooked shrimp, grilled chicken, or chickpeas for extra protein.
How to Serve
This baked feta pasta is satisfying on its own but pairs well with:
- A Side Salad – A crisp Greek or arugula salad balances the richness.
- Garlic Bread – Perfect for scooping up the creamy sauce.
- Roasted Vegetables – Try zucchini, bell peppers, or mushrooms for extra texture.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
Freezing
Not recommended, as the texture of the feta sauce changes when frozen.
Reheating
Reheat in a skillet over medium-low heat with a splash of water or olive oil to revive the sauce.
FAQs
Can I use another cheese instead of feta? Yes! Goat cheese or ricotta can create a similarly creamy texture.What pasta works best for this dish? Short pasta like penne, rigatoni, or fusilli works best to hold onto the sauce.Can I add more vegetables? Absolutely! Spinach, bell peppers, or olives make great additions.How do I make this dish gluten-free? Simply use gluten-free pasta, and the recipe remains just as delicious.This Baked Feta Pasta is a simple yet luxurious meal that will become a staple in your kitchen. One bite, and you’ll see why it’s a viral sensation! 🍝🧀🍅