Baked Feta Pasta: The Ultimate Baked Feta Pasta Recipe
Introduction to Baked Feta Pasta
Are you ready to indulge in a deliciously creamy and comforting pasta dish that’s taking the culinary world by storm? Baked feta pasta is not only a treat for your taste buds but also a breeze to prepare. With just a few simple ingredients, you can create a meal that’s both satisfying and impressive. This recipe brings together the rich flavors of feta cheese, the sweetness of cherry tomatoes, and the heartiness of pasta for a dish that’s perfect for any occasion.
A Personal Story Behind My Baked Feta Pasta Journey
I first stumbled upon baked feta pasta during a family gathering where a relative brought it to share. The aroma wafting from the oven was so inviting that I couldn’t wait to try it. As I took my first bite, I was amazed at how the creamy feta blended perfectly with the roasted tomatoes. It quickly became a family favorite, and now I make it often, especially for gatherings. It’s a dish that brings everyone together, and I love sharing it with friends and family.
What Makes This Baked Feta Pasta Recipe Special?
What sets this baked feta pasta apart is the simplicity of its ingredients combined with the depth of flavor they create. The feta cheese becomes wonderfully creamy as it bakes, while the cherry tomatoes burst with sweetness. The addition of garlic and fresh basil elevates the dish, making it not only delicious but also fragrant. Plus, it’s a one-pan wonder that saves on cleanup, making it perfect for busy weeknights or special occasions.
The Full Baked Feta Pasta Recipe
Ingredients
- 1 lb Pasta (bowtie or orzo)
- ½ cup Olive Oil
- 2 pints Cherry Tomatoes (around 20-25 oz)
- 1 8 oz block Feta Cheese
- 4 cloves Garlic, finely chopped
- 2 pinches Red Pepper Flakes
- 1 handful Fresh Basil Leaves
- Kosher Salt and Fresh Cracked Pepper
- Balsamic Glaze (if the tomatoes are too sour)
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). This ensures the feta and tomatoes cook evenly.
- In a baking dish, mix the cherry tomatoes, olive oil, and a pinch of salt. Ensure the tomatoes are well-coated with the oil for the best flavor.
- Place the block of feta cheese in the center of the baking dish. Drizzle a bit more olive oil over the feta and sprinkle it with red pepper flakes for a touch of heat.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 30 minutes. The tomatoes should soften and the feta should begin to melt.
- While the feta and tomatoes bake, cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Remember to reserve some pasta water before draining it. This will help adjust the sauce consistency later.
- After 30 minutes, increase the oven temperature to 450°F (230°C) and bake for an additional 5-10 minutes, or until the feta and tomatoes are browned. This step adds a lovely caramelization to the dish.
- Remove the baking dish from the oven and immediately add the chopped garlic and torn basil leaves. Stir to combine; the residual heat will soften the garlic.
- Add the cooked pasta to the dish and toss everything together. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- If the sauce seems dry, add some of the reserved pasta water to loosen it up, creating a creamy texture.
- If the tomatoes are too sour, you can drizzle some balsamic glaze over the dish to sweeten it up, balancing the flavors beautifully.
Serving Suggestions and Variations for Baked Feta Pasta
This baked feta pasta is delightful on its own, but you can elevate it even further! Consider serving it with a side salad or some crusty bread to soak up the delicious sauce. You can also experiment with different pasta shapes or add protein like grilled chicken or shrimp for a heartier meal. For an extra kick, feel free to incorporate fresh herbs like oregano or thyme before serving to enhance the flavor profile.
Frequently Asked Questions About Baked Feta Pasta
Can I use different types of cheese?
Absolutely! While feta is traditional, you can try goat cheese or even ricotta for a different flavor.
Is this dish suitable for meal prep?
Yes! It holds up well in the fridge for a few days, making it perfect for meal prep.
Can I make this dish vegetarian?
Yes, this recipe is already vegetarian-friendly! Just ensure any additional ingredients you add are also vegetarian.
How can I make it gluten-free?
Simply substitute regular pasta with gluten-free pasta, and you’re all set!
Recipe Stats
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cooking Time: 40 minutes
- Total Time: 55 minutes
- Calories per Serving: 450
- Servings: 4
Baked Feta Pasta
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 lb Pasta (bowtie or orzo)
- 0.5 cup Olive Oil
- 2 pints Cherry Tomatoes (around 20-25 oz)
- 1 block Feta Cheese (8 oz)
- 4 cloves Garlic, finely chopped
- 2 pinches Red Pepper Flakes
- 1 handful Fresh Basil Leaves
- 1 to taste Kosher Salt
- 1 to taste Fresh Cracked Pepper
- 1 to taste Balsamic Glaze (if the tomatoes are too sour)
- No alcoholic drinks allowed, please substitute with a non-alcoholic option.
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). This ensures the feta and tomatoes cook evenly.
- In a baking dish, mix the cherry tomatoes, olive oil, and a pinch of salt. Ensure the tomatoes are well-coated with the oil for the best flavor.
- Place the block of feta cheese in the center of the baking dish. Drizzle a bit more olive oil over the feta and sprinkle it with red pepper flakes for a touch of heat.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 30 minutes. The tomatoes should soften and the feta should begin to melt.
- While the feta and tomatoes bake, cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Remember to reserve some pasta water before draining it. This will help adjust the sauce consistency later.
- After 30 minutes, increase the oven temperature to 450°F (230°C) and bake for an additional 5-10 minutes, or until the feta and tomatoes are browned. This step adds a lovely caramelization to the dish.
- Remove the baking dish from the oven and immediately add the chopped garlic and torn basil leaves. Stir to combine; the residual heat will soften the garlic.
- Add the cooked pasta to the dish and toss everything together. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- If the sauce seems dry, add some of the reserved pasta water to loosen it up, creating a creamy texture.
- If the tomatoes are too sour, you can drizzle some balsamic glaze over the dish to sweeten it up, balancing the flavors beautifully.