Baked Feta Pasta
Description:
Baked Feta Pasta is a viral Mediterranean-inspired dish where a block of feta cheese is oven-roasted with cherry tomatoes, garlic, and olive oil until melty, then mixed with pasta and fresh basil. Creamy, tangy, and full of rich flavor, it’s an easy weeknight favorite made in one baking dish!
Time Required:
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 40 minutes
Servings: 4
Ingredients:
200g (7 oz) block of feta cheese
300g (10.5 oz) cherry tomatoes
3 tablespoons olive oil
3 garlic cloves, minced
250g (9 oz) pasta (penne, fusilli, or farfalle work well)
1/2 teaspoon chili flakes (optional)
Salt and black pepper to taste
Fresh basil leaves, chopped (for garnish)
Optional: 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano or thyme
Instructions:
Preheat the Oven:
Preheat your oven to 200°C (400°F).
Prepare the Baking Dish:
In a baking dish, place the feta block in the center. Surround it with cherry tomatoes.
Season:
Drizzle with olive oil, sprinkle minced garlic, chili flakes, salt, and pepper. Optionally add oregano.
Bake:
Place the dish in the oven and bake for 30 minutes, or until tomatoes have burst and feta is golden and soft.
Boil Pasta:
While baking, cook pasta in salted boiling water according to package instructions. Drain and reserve 1/4 cup pasta water.
Mix:
Once the feta and tomatoes are baked, use a fork to mash them together into a creamy sauce. Add cooked pasta and toss well. Add a bit of pasta water if needed for creaminess.
Garnish & Serve:
Stir in fresh basil and serve hot.
Nutritional Info (Per Serving – serves 4):
Nutrient Amount
Calories 480 kcal
Protein 15 g
Carbohydrates 50 g
Fat 25 g
Saturated Fat 10 g
Fiber 4 g
Sugar 6 g
Sodium 600 mg
Calcium 250 mg
Values may vary based on specific ingredients and pasta type.
Questions & Answers
Q: Can I use crumbled feta instead of a block?
A: Yes, but it may melt unevenly. A block gives the best creamy texture.
Q: Can I make this dish vegan?
A: Yes! Substitute feta with vegan feta-style cheese and ensure your pasta is egg-free.
Q: What pasta types work best?
A: Short pasta like fusilli, penne, or farfalle is ideal for catching the creamy sauce.
Q: Can I add vegetables or protein?
A: Absolutely! Try spinach, olives, mushrooms, grilled chicken, or shrimp.
Q: How do I store and reheat leftovers?
A: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat in a pan with a splash of water or olive oi