Creamy Baked Feta Pasta is more than just a recipe—it’s a love letter to simple ingredients and big flavors. There’s something magical about the way a humble block of feta cheese and a handful of grape tomatoes can transform into a rich, creamy sauce that clings to pasta like it was made for it. This dish became a viral sensation for a reason: it’s quick, easy, and undeniably delicious.
I’ll never forget the first time I made baked feta pasta. I was skeptical about how such minimal effort could yield something extraordinary. But as the tomatoes roasted, releasing their sweet juices, and the feta melted into creamy perfection, the aroma filling my kitchen told me everything I needed to know. This was going to be a hit—and it didn’t disappoint.
Over the years, I’ve tweaked the recipe here and there, adding my own twists and tricks, but the core magic remains. Whether you’re a seasoned home cook or a kitchen newbie, this dish is for you. It’s perfect for weeknight dinners, date nights, or even when you just need a little comfort in your life. So, let’s dive into why this recipe deserves a permanent spot in your repertoire.
Why You’ll Love This Creamy Baked Feta Pasta
Baked feta pasta has so much going for it that it’s hard not to fall in love with this dish. Here are just a few reasons why you’ll find yourself coming back to it over and over again:
- Easy and Foolproof: With just a few ingredients and minimal hands-on time, this recipe is practically impossible to mess up.
- Rich and Creamy: The feta melts into a tangy, velvety sauce that’s perfectly balanced by the sweetness of roasted tomatoes.
- Customizable: You can tweak this recipe to suit your tastes or use what you have on hand. The possibilities are endless!
- Crowd-Pleasing: It’s one of those dishes that feels fancy but requires little effort, making it perfect for impressing guests.
- Quick to Make: From start to finish, you’ll have dinner on the table in under an hour.
When you combine the creaminess of the feta with the bright, juicy burst of roasted tomatoes and the herby freshness of basil, it’s like a symphony of flavors in every bite. Plus, the tender pasta ties it all together, creating a dish that’s as satisfying as it is easy to make.
Preparation Time and Servings
Preparation Time: 15 minutes
Cooking Time: 35 minutes
Total Time: 50 minutes
Serves: 4
Nutritional Information (per serving):
Calories: 451 kcal
Total Fat: 30g
Saturated Fat: 11g
Cholesterol: 50mg
Sodium: 790mg
Total Carbohydrates: 32g
Fiber: 3g
Sugars: 5g
Protein: 14g
Ingredients
Before you start cooking, gather these ingredients:
- 2½ cups grape tomatoes: These little gems are the heart of the dish. Their natural sweetness intensifies as they roast, creating a luscious base for the sauce.
- 8 oz block of feta cheese: Go for a good-quality block of feta rather than crumbled. It melts better and delivers a richer texture.
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning: A blend of dried herbs like oregano, thyme, and rosemary adds depth to the dish.
- ½ teaspoon salt: Enhances the natural flavors of the ingredients. Adjust to taste if needed.
- 5 tablespoons olive oil: This helps everything roast beautifully while adding richness to the sauce.
- ¼ cup chopped fresh basil: A bright, herby finish that ties all the flavors together.
- 12 oz bow tie pasta (farfalle): Its ridges and folds hold onto the creamy sauce perfectly.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Let’s break this recipe down into easy-to-follow steps.
Preheat the Oven
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). A hot oven ensures even roasting, which is key to getting those juicy, burst tomatoes and melty feta.
Assemble the Ingredients
Take a medium-sized baking dish and add the grape tomatoes. Place the block of feta cheese in the center, surrounded by the tomatoes. This setup allows everything to cook evenly.
Add the Seasoning
Drizzle 3 tablespoons of olive oil over the tomatoes and feta. Sprinkle the Italian seasoning and salt over the top, ensuring everything is well-seasoned. Finish with the remaining 2 tablespoons of olive oil drizzled over the feta for extra richness.
Bake the Dish
Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for 30-35 minutes. The tomatoes should be soft and slightly blistered, and the feta should look golden and soft.
Create the Sauce
Remove the dish from the oven and, while it’s still hot, use a fork or spoon to mash the softened feta and tomatoes together. Mix until you have a creamy, cohesive sauce.
Incorporate the Basil and Pasta
Stir in the chopped fresh basil for a burst of herby freshness. Then, add the cooked pasta to the dish and toss until every piece is coated in the rich, creamy sauce.
Serve and Savor
Serve the pasta hot, garnished with additional basil if you like. Pair it with a crisp green salad or some garlic bread for a complete meal.
Expert Tips for the Best Results
- Choose the Right Feta: A block of feta made with sheep’s milk or a mix of sheep’s and goat’s milk offers the best flavor and texture.
- Don’t Overcook the Pasta: Cook your pasta al dente so it doesn’t get mushy when mixed with the sauce.
- Use Fresh Basil: While dried basil can work in a pinch, fresh basil takes the flavor to the next level.
- Reserve Some Pasta Water: If your sauce feels too thick, a splash of reserved pasta water can help thin it out while maintaining the creaminess.
- Experiment with Add-Ins: Roasted vegetables, olives, or grilled chicken can turn this dish into a heartier meal.
Recipe Variations
This Creamy Baked Feta Pasta recipe is incredibly versatile. Here are some ideas to make it your own:
- Gluten-Free: Swap out the bow tie pasta for your favorite gluten-free pasta.
- Spicy Kick: Add red pepper flakes to the tomatoes before baking for a touch of heat.
- Cheese Alternatives: Try goat cheese, ricotta, or even cream cheese for a different flavor and texture.
- Veggie Boost: Toss in some roasted zucchini, spinach, or artichokes for added nutrition.
- Herb Substitutions: Use thyme, oregano, or parsley instead of basil to switch up the flavors.
Serving Suggestions
Creamy Baked Feta Pasta is satisfying on its own, but here are some ideas to round out your meal:
- Side Salad: A crisp arugula or mixed green salad with a simple lemon vinaigrette pairs beautifully.
- Garlic Bread: Use it to scoop up every bit of the creamy sauce.
- Protein Additions: Top the pasta with grilled shrimp, chicken, or tofu for added protein.
Storing and Reheating
Leftovers? Lucky you! Here’s how to store and reheat your baked feta pasta:
- Refrigerate: Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.
- Reheat: Add a splash of water or broth to the pasta and microwave it for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through. Alternatively, reheat in a skillet over medium heat.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use cherry tomatoes instead of grape tomatoes?
Yes! Cherry tomatoes are a perfect substitute and will roast just as beautifully.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
You can prepare the baked feta and tomato mixture in advance. Store it in the fridge and toss it with freshly cooked pasta when ready to serve.
What if I don’t have fresh basil?
Dried basil works in a pinch, but fresh basil adds a brighter, fresher flavor.
Can I freeze leftovers?
Freezing isn’t recommended as the creamy texture of the sauce may change, but the baked feta and tomato mixture can be frozen separately.
A Dish Worth Sharing
Baked feta pasta is one of those recipes that checks all the boxes: quick, easy, and ridiculously tasty. It’s proof that you don’t need a laundry list of ingredients or hours in the kitchen to create something truly special. Whether you’re cooking for yourself, your family, or a group of friends, this dish is sure to impress.
So, what are you waiting for? Grab your ingredients and get cooking! And when you make it, don’t forget to share your creation—snap a photo, post it on social media, and tag me. I can’t wait to see how your baked feta pasta turns out!
Print
Creamy Baked Feta Pasta with Roasted Tomatoes – Quick and Easy Dinner
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This creamy baked feta pasta recipe is a crowd-pleaser that combines roasted tomatoes, tangy feta, and tender pasta in a quick, flavorful dish.
Ingredients
- 2½ cups grape tomatoes
- 8 oz block feta cheese
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- ½ teaspoon salt
- 5 tablespoons olive oil
- ¼ cup fresh basil, chopped
- 12 oz bow tie pasta, cooked
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Arrange tomatoes in a baking dish and place feta in the center.
- Drizzle with olive oil, sprinkle with seasoning and salt.
- Bake for 30-35 minutes, until tomatoes burst and feta softens.
- Stir baked feta and tomatoes into a creamy sauce.
- Toss with cooked pasta and fresh basil. Serve hot.
Notes
- Use sheep’s milk feta for the creamiest results.
- Add a splash of pasta water if the sauce is too thick.
- Substitute cherry tomatoes or penne pasta if needed.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Mediterranean-inspired