Baked Feta Pasta
A creamy and tangy pasta dish featuring roasted feta cheese, juicy cherry tomatoes, and olive oil, all combined to create a viral Mediterranean-inspired sensation.
Equipment
- Baking dish (9x13 inches recommended)
- Garlic press (optional)
- Herb scissors (optional)
- Large pot (for cooking pasta)
- Fork (for mashing feta and tomatoes)
- Strainer
Ingredients
- 1 block (200g) Feta Cheese
- 2 cups Cherry Tomatoes
- 3 tbsp Olive Oil
- 2 Garlic cloves minced
- 1 tsp Red Pepper Flakes
- 300 g Pasta (penne, rigatoni, fusilli, or cavatappi recommended)
- Salt & pepper to taste
- 25 tbsp Fresh Basil chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
- Set your oven to 400°F (200°C)
- Arrange cherry tomatoes in a baking dish. Drizzle with olive oil and season with salt and pepper.
- Place the block of feta cheese in the center of the dish, surrounded by the tomatoes.
- Roast in the oven for 20-25 minutes until the tomatoes burst and the feta softens.
- While the feta and tomatoes bake, cook pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
- Once roasted, mash the feta and tomatoes with a fork to create a creamy sauce.
- Toss the cooked pasta into the baking dish and mix until evenly coated.
- Top with fresh basil and serve immediately.
Notes
Tips & Variations
- Customization: Add vegetables like sautéed spinach, roasted zucchini, or caramelized onions for extra nutrition.
- Protein Options: Include grilled chicken, shrimp, or Italian sausage for a heartier meal.
- Herbs and Spices: Experiment with rosemary, thyme, or oregano for different flavor profiles.
- Vegan Option: Substitute feta with a plant-based cheese alternative and use gluten-free pasta.
- Texture Tip: Use pasta shapes like rigatoni or fusilli to ensure the sauce clings beautifully.
Storage & Reheating
- Storage: Transfer leftovers to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3-4 days.
- Reheating:
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C), cover the dish with foil, and heat for 15-20 minutes.
- Stovetop: Add a splash of water or broth to keep it moist while reheating over medium heat.
- Microwave: Heat in 30-second intervals, stirring in between, until warmed through.