Baked Feta Pasta

If you’re on the lookout for a delightful pasta dish that’s easy to prepare and bursting with flavor, Baked Feta Pasta is a fantastic choice. This dish has taken the culinary world by storm for good reason. With the creamy, tangy feta cheese and the sweet burst of cherry or grape tomatoes, it transforms into a comforting bowl of goodness that will leave everyone asking for seconds. Plus, it’s made with simple ingredients, making it perfect for any day of the week. Whether you’re an experienced cook or just beginning your culinary journey, this recipe is both approachable and rewarding. Let’s dive into why this dish will become a staple in your kitchen!

Why You’ll Love This Baked Feta Pasta

Baked Feta Pasta is not just a trend; it’s a delicious way to enjoy fresh ingredients and flavor-packed meals. Here are a few reasons why this dish will win your heart:

1. Simplicity: The recipe uses straightforward ingredients that you may already have in your pantry.
2. Flavorful: The combination of roasted feta and vegetables creates a creamy sauce that is both savory and slightly sweet.
3. Customizable: You can easily modify it to fit your dietary preferences or what you have on hand. Want to add more veggies? Go for it! Prefer a different cheese? No problem!
4. Quick and Easy: From prep to plate, this recipe can be on your table in about an hour, making it the perfect choice for busy weeknights.
5. Crowd-Pleaser: This dish is sure to impress your family and friends. It’s visually appealing and hearty enough to satisfy.

Let’s take a closer look at the ingredients you’ll need to whip up this scrumptious Baked Feta Pasta.

Baked Feta Pasta

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• Author: Sarah Mendez
• Total Time: 45 minutes
• Yield: 4–6 servings 1x
• Diet: Vegetarian

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Description

This Baked Feta Pasta recipe is a creamy, cheesy, and flavorful dish that combines roasted tomatoes, zucchini, garlic, and a whole block of feta for an easy, crowd-pleasing meal. Tossed with your favorite pasta and finished with fresh basil and Parmesan, it’s a weeknight wonder you’ll want to make again and again.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 2 pints cherry or grape tomatoes
• 1 zucchini, sliced
• 1/2 sweet onion, diced
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/2 cup olive oil
• 1/2 tablespoon garlic powder
• 1/4 tablespoon crushed red pepper flakes (adjust to taste)
• Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
• 1 block feta cheese (about 7–8 oz), drained
• 1 pound pasta (penne, fusilli, rotini, or your choice)
• 1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
• Optional Add-Ons: Cooked chicken or shrimp, extra vegetables (bell peppers, spinach, asparagus), lemon zest or juice

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Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large baking dish, combine cherry tomatoes, zucchini, onion, garlic, olive oil, garlic powder, red pepper flakes, salt, and pepper. Mix well to coat.
3. Make a space in the center and place the feta block in the middle. Drizzle with a bit more olive oil if desired.
4. Bake for 30–35 minutes, or until tomatoes burst and feta is golden and softened.
5. Meanwhile, cook the pasta according to package instructions. Reserve 1/2 cup of pasta water and drain the rest.
6. Once baked, use a spoon to mash the feta and tomatoes together into a creamy sauce. Add in the cooked pasta and toss to coat. Use reserved pasta water as needed to reach your desired consistency.
7. Stir in fresh basil and Parmesan (if using). Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
8. Serve hot, with optional lemon zest or juice for brightness and your choice of cooked protein if desired.

Notes

• Use full-fat block feta for the creamiest texture—avoid pre-crumbled feta.
• Add spinach during the last few minutes of baking if you’d like it wilted into the sauce.
• This dish is easily made gluten-free with GF pasta.

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 35 minutes
• Category: Main Dish
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: Mediterranean-Inspired

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 1/2 cups
• Calories: 480
• Sugar: 7g
• Sodium: 680mg
• Fat: 22g
• Saturated Fat: 7g
• Unsaturated Fat: undefined
• Trans Fat: undefined
• Carbohydrates: 54g
• Fiber: 4g
• Protein: 15g
• Cholesterol: 30mg

Keywords: baked feta pasta, roasted tomato feta pasta, viral feta pasta, easy vegetarian pasta, Mediterranean pasta recipe

Ingredients You’ll Need for Baked Feta Pasta:

To create this delightful recipe, gather the following ingredients:

Essential Ingredients:

• 2 pints cherry or grape tomatoes: These little gems add sweetness and a vibrant pop to your dish.
• 1 zucchini: Sliced to add a lovely crunch and color.
• 1/2 sweet onion: Diced to bring in a hint of sweetness and depth.
• 4 cloves of garlic: Minced for that aromatic punch.
• 1/2 cup olive oil: This rich oil enhances the flavors and helps in roasting the veggies.
• 1/2 tablespoon garlic powder: For an extra kick of garlic flavor.
• 1/4 tablespoon crushed red pepper flakes: Adds a touch of heat; adjust based on your spice preference.
• Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper: Essential for seasoning the dish.
• 1 block of feta cheese: This is the star ingredient! Make sure to drain it well.
• 1 pound of pasta: Use your favorite type; penne, fusilli, or rotini all work wonderfully.
• 1/4 cup fresh basil: Chopped for garnish and freshness.
• 1/4 cup grated parmesan cheese: Optional for an extra layer of flavor.

Optional Add-Ons:

• Cooked protein: Chicken or shrimp could add extra substance to the dish.
• Extra vegetables: Bell peppers, spinach, or asparagus can be wonderful additions.
• Lemon zest or juice: A splash of acidity can brighten up the flavors.

How to Make Baked Feta Pasta – Step by Step:

Now that you have your ingredients ready, let’s go through the detailed steps to make this delectable dish.

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Begin by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). This allows the oven to reach the perfect temperature for roasting your vegetables and creating a creamy feta sauce.

Step 2: Prepare the Vegetables

In a large baking dish, combine the cherry or grape tomatoes, sliced zucchini, diced onion, and minced garlic. Drizzle these veggies with olive oil. Toss everything together to ensure the vegetables are well coated. Sprinkle in garlic powder, crushed red pepper flakes, kosher salt, and freshly ground black pepper. Mix until the seasonings are evenly distributed.

Step 3: Add Feta Cheese

Take your block of feta cheese and place it in the center of the baking dish. Season the feta with a bit more salt and pepper. This will help it absorb all the wonderful flavors as it bakes.

Step 4: Bake to Perfection

Place the baking dish in the oven and let it roast for about 30 minutes. You will notice that the tomatoes will begin to burst, and the feta will soften beautifully. After 30 minutes, increase the oven temperature to 450°F (232°C) and bake for an additional 10 minutes. This final step will give your feta a gorgeous golden brown color.

Step 5: Cooking the Pasta

While the vegetables and feta are baking, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add your preferred pasta and cook it according to the package instructions until it’s al dente. Remember to reserve about 1/2 cup of the pasta cooking liquid before draining the pasta.

Step 6: Combine Everything

Once the roasting is done, take the baking dish out of the oven. Using a fork or a spatula, gently mash the feta cheese with the roasted vegetables. This will create a creamy sauce that beautifully coats the pasta.

Step 7: Toss with Pasta

Add the drained pasta to the baking dish, tossing it with the feta and vegetables. If the mixture seems too dry, gradually add some of the reserved pasta water to achieve your desired consistency.

Step 8: Final Touches

Once everything is well combined, transfer the dish to serving bowls or a large platter. Garnish with chopped fresh basil and a sprinkle of grated parmesan cheese, if desired. Serve warm and enjoy!

Serving Suggestions for Baked Feta Pasta

Baked Feta Pasta is incredibly versatile. Here are a few ideas to serve it perfectly:

• With a Side Salad: A light mixed greens salad with vinaigrette complements the richness of the pasta.
• Garlic Bread: A crusty piece of garlic bread is always a crowd-pleaser that pairs well with this dish.
• Wine Pairing: Consider serving it with a glass of white wine, like Sauvignon Blanc, to elevate the meal.
• Vegetable Sides: Roasted or grilled vegetables can add freshness and color to your plate.

Pro Tips for Perfecting Your Baked Feta Pasta

• Use Quality Ingredients: Choosing high-quality feta cheese and fresh vegetables will dramatically enhance the flavor of your dish.
• Don’t Overcook the Pasta: Ensure your pasta is al dente, as it will continue to cook when mixed with the hot sauce.
• Customize to Your Taste: Feel free to adjust the spices and herbs based on your preference. A sprinkle of lemon juice before serving adds a wonderful brightness.
• Make Ahead: You can prepare the vegetables and feta in advance and store them in the fridge. Just bake them when you’re ready to eat.
• Experiment with Different Cheeses: If feta isn’t your cheese of choice, feel free to try goat cheese or ricotta for a different flavor profile.

Easy Variations for Baked Feta Pasta

This dish is wonderfully adaptable. Here are some variations to consider:

• Mediterranean Twist: Add olives, sun-dried tomatoes, or artichokes for a Mediterranean flair.
• Creamy Version: Stir in some heavy cream or cream cheese after baking for an extra creamy sauce.
• Herb Enhancements: Incorporate fresh herbs like thyme, oregano, or even dill to add depth.
• Add Proteins: Mix in cooked chicken, shrimp, or chickpeas to make it a more filling meal.

Storage Tips for Baked Feta Pasta

If you happen to have any leftovers (though we doubt it!), here’s how to store and reheat your Baked Feta Pasta:

• Refrigeration: Allow the dish to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Freezing: This dish is not optimal for freezing due to the texture of the feta and pasta. However, if needed, freezing is possible. Make sure to use a freezer-safe container, and it can be stored for up to 2 months.
• Reheating: When ready to enjoy your leftovers, reheat in the microwave or in a skillet over medium heat. Add a splash of water or olive oil if it seems dry.

Conclusion

Baked Feta Pasta is more than just a meal; it’s an experience filled with flavor and comfort. Its ease of preparation and the ability to adjust ingredients make it a go-to recipe for everyone. Whether for a family dinner or a gathering with friends, this dish is bound to impress. So gather your ingredients, follow the steps, and treat yourself and your loved ones to a delightful culinary adventure. Happy cooking!

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