Why This Recipe Is So Popular
Baked Feta Pasta is beloved for several reasons:
• Minimal Ingredients: You only need a few pantry staples, a block of feta cheese, and some cherry tomatoes to make a dish that’s bursting with flavor.
• Creamy and Tangy: The baked feta melts into a creamy, tangy sauce that’s balanced by the sweetness of roasted cherry tomatoes.
• Hands-Off Cooking: Most of the work is done in the oven, making it an ideal meal for busy days.
• Versatile: You can add your favorite ingredients to customize the recipe however you like.
Ingredients Needed
Here’s what you’ll need to make Baked Feta Pasta for about 4 servings:
• 1 block (about 8 ounces) of feta cheese (Greek feta in brine is preferred for the best texture)
• 2 cups of cherry or grape tomatoes (halved if large)
• 3-4 cloves of garlic, minced or left whole for a milder taste
• 1/4 cup of extra-virgin olive oil
• 8 ounces of pasta (short pasta like penne, fusilli, or farfalle works well)
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• Red pepper flakes (optional, for a hint of heat)
• Fresh basil or oregano, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
1. Preheat Your Oven: Set it to 400°F (200°C). Preheating helps the tomatoes and feta cook evenly.
2. Prepare the Baking Dish: Place the block of feta in the center of a baking dish. Scatter the cherry tomatoes around the feta, drizzle everything with the olive oil, and season with salt, pepper, and a pinch of red pepper flakes (if you like a bit of spice).
3. Add Garlic: Add minced or whole garlic cloves to the dish, nestling them between the tomatoes. Garlic adds depth to the sauce and enhances the feta’s creamy texture.
4. Bake: Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for 30-35 minutes. The feta should be softened and slightly golden, while the tomatoes should be blistered and juicy.
5. Cook the Pasta: While the feta and tomatoes are baking, bring a pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the pasta according to the package instructions, then drain, reserving about 1/2 cup of the pasta cooking water.
6. Mash and Mix: Remove the baking dish from the oven. Use a fork to mash the feta and tomatoes together, creating a creamy, pinkish sauce. Add the cooked pasta to the dish and toss until everything is well combined. If the sauce seems too thick, add a bit of the reserved pasta water to reach your desired consistency.
7. Add Finishing Touches: Sprinkle fresh basil or oregano on top, adding a pop of color and freshness to the dish. You can also drizzle a bit more olive oil if you’d like.
8. Serve Immediately: Serve the Baked Feta Pasta hot, garnished with additional herbs or red pepper flakes for extra flavor.
Tips for Perfect Baked Feta Pasta
1. Choosing the Right Feta: Opt for a block of feta in brine instead of pre-crumbled feta. Block feta melts into a creamier, smoother sauce, while pre-crumbled tends to dry out.
2. Cherry Tomatoes: Cherry or grape tomatoes are ideal for their natural sweetness and juicy texture. If they’re on the larger side, consider halving them so they blister and release their juices faster.
3. Pasta Shape: Short pasta shapes like penne, fusilli, or farfalle hold the sauce well. Their ridges and twists capture the creamy feta sauce, making each bite flavorful.
4. Garlic Options: For a stronger garlic flavor, mince the garlic before adding it. For a more subtle flavor, leave the cloves whole and remove them before mashing everything together.
5. Adding Pasta Water: The starchy pasta water can help thin the sauce if it’s too thick. Start with a few tablespoons and adjust as needed.
Recipe Variations
Baked Feta Pasta is incredibly versatile. Here are some delicious variations to try:
• Add Protein: Add cooked chicken, shrimp, or sausage for a heartier meal.
• Vegetable Boost: Add other roasted vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, mushrooms, or spinach. You can add these to the baking dish alongside the tomatoes and feta.
• Herb Substitutes: Fresh basil is classic, but fresh thyme, oregano, or parsley work well too.
• Spicy Twist: Add more red pepper flakes or drizzle with a bit of chili oil for a spicy kick.
• Vegan Version: Substitute feta with a vegan cheese block that melts well, or use a cashew-based sauce for creaminess.
Nutritional Benefits of Key Ingredients
• Feta Cheese: Feta is lower in fat than many other cheeses and is packed with calcium, protein, and probiotics. Its salty flavor and creamy texture make it ideal for pasta dishes.
• Cherry Tomatoes: Tomatoes are rich in antioxidants like lycopene, which supports heart health and may reduce cancer risk. They’re also a great source of vitamins C, K, and potassium.
• Olive Oil: Extra-virgin olive oil provides healthy monounsaturated fats and antioxidants that help reduce inflammation and support heart health.
Baked Feta Pasta Recipe
Ingredients
- 12 ounces penne pasta rotini bowtie, or elbow pasta will also work
- 3 cups chicken broth or water
- 1, 8- ounce block of feta cheese
- 1 pint cherry tomatoes
- 1 tablespoon extra-virgin olive oil
- 1/2 teaspoon sea salt plus more to taste
- 1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper
- 2 cloves garlic minced
- 0.75 ounces about 1/4 cup fresh basil roughly chopped
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 400 F.
- Place the block of feta in the center of a 9×13 inch baking dish, then pour the dry pasta around the feta.
- Pour the broth over the uncooked pasta, then carefully stir the pasta with the broth (making sure not to stir the feta in with it), to make sure that the pasta is fully submerged in liquid.
- Sprinkle the cherry tomatoes over top of the noodles, then drizzle over the olive oil and salt and pepper.
- Cover the baking dish with foil as tight as possible, and bake at 400 F for 40 minutes.
- Once finished baking, remove the foil, add the minced garlic and fresh basil, and stir everything together until fully combined. Serve and enjoy!
Notes
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
1. Can I use another type of cheese?
Yes, you can try other creamy, salty cheeses like goat cheese or ricotta for a different texture and flavor. However, feta’s distinct tanginess is key to the recipe.
2. What if I don’t have cherry tomatoes?
Grape tomatoes or any other small, sweet tomatoes work best. You can use regular tomatoes chopped into chunks, but keep in mind they have more moisture and may alter the sauce’s consistency.
3. Can I make this dish gluten-free?
Absolutely! Use your favorite gluten-free pasta to make the recipe gluten-free.
Serving Suggestions
Baked Feta Pasta can be enjoyed as a standalone meal, but here are some great accompaniments:
• Fresh Salad: A crisp, fresh side salad with arugula, cucumber, and a light vinaigrette complements the creamy pasta.
• Crusty Bread: Serve with a slice of crusty bread to scoop up the sauce.
• Wine Pairing: A light, acidic white wine like Sauvignon Blanc or a crisp rosé complements the dish beautifully.
Make Ahead and Storage
Making Ahead: While this dish is best enjoyed fresh, you can prepare the ingredients (like cutting tomatoes and garlic) ahead of time.
Storing Leftovers: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of water or olive oil if the sauce is too thick.
Freezing: This dish isn’t ideal for freezing, as the texture of feta changes when frozen.
Why Baked Feta Pasta Became a Viral Sensation
This recipe went viral on social media for good reason: it’s simple, visually appealing, and packed with flavor. The baked feta method creates a creamy, luxurious sauce without the need for heavy cream or complex cooking techniques. Its popularity also speaks to the current trend of easy, comforting meals that don’t compromise on taste, allowing home cooks of all skill levels to whip up a delicious dish in minutes.
Conclusion
Baked Feta Pasta is more than just a trend—it’s a delightful, satisfying meal that’s become a staple in many kitchens. With its ease of preparation, bold flavors, and versatility, it’s the perfect dish for any night of the week. So give it a try and enjoy the magic of creamy feta, sweet tomatoes, and fragrant garlic—all baked to perfection in one delicious dish!