Baked Feta Pasta Recipe

This baked feta pasta is a simple yet delicious dish that combines creamy feta cheese with roasted tomatoes and pasta. It’s a perfect weeknight meal that requires minimal effort and delivers maximum flavor.

The recipe is straightforward and can be customized with your favorite vegetables or herbs to enhance the taste.

Overview of Baked Feta Pasta

Baked feta pasta is a delightful dish that brings together the creaminess of feta cheese and the sweetness of roasted cherry tomatoes.

This combination creates a rich and satisfying meal that is both comforting and vibrant.

The simplicity of the ingredients allows for a quick preparation, making it an ideal choice for busy weeknights.

Ingredients That Shine

The star of this dish is undoubtedly the block of feta cheese, which transforms into a luscious sauce as it bakes.

Alongside the feta, cherry tomatoes add a burst of flavor, becoming tender and slightly caramelized in the oven.

A drizzle of olive oil and a sprinkle of garlic and oregano enhance the overall taste, while fresh basil leaves provide a refreshing finish.

Preparation Steps

To begin, preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).

In a rustic baking dish, combine halved cherry tomatoes with olive oil, minced garlic, oregano, salt, and pepper.

Nestle the feta cheese block in the center, allowing it to absorb the flavors of the surrounding ingredients as it bakes.

After about 25-30 minutes in the oven, the tomatoes will blister, and the feta will soften, creating a creamy base for the pasta.

While this is happening, cook your pasta until al dente, ensuring it maintains a slight bite.

Once everything is ready, mash the feta and tomatoes together to form a sauce before mixing in the pasta.

Serving Suggestions

This dish is best served hot, garnished with fresh basil leaves that add a pop of color and freshness.

The rustic presentation in the baking dish invites everyone to dig in, making it perfect for family dinners or gatherings with friends.

Pair it with a simple green salad or some crusty bread to soak up any leftover sauce.

Flavor Variations

While the classic version is delicious, feel free to customize the dish to suit your taste.

Adding vegetables like spinach, zucchini, or bell peppers can enhance the nutritional value and flavor profile.

You might also experiment with different herbs, such as thyme or rosemary, to create a unique twist on this Mediterranean favorite.

Nutritional Benefits

This baked feta pasta provides a satisfying meal with a good balance of carbohydrates, protein, and healthy fats.

With approximately 450 calories per serving, it is a hearty option that won’t leave you feeling deprived.

The combination of ingredients also offers vitamins and minerals, making it a wholesome choice for any occasion.

Easy Baked Feta Pasta Recipe

This dish features pasta tossed with roasted cherry tomatoes and a block of feta cheese, which melts into a creamy sauce as it bakes. The recipe takes about 30 minutes from start to finish and serves 4 people.

Ingredients

• 8 ounces pasta (penne or fusilli work well)
• 1 block (8 ounces) feta cheese
• 2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved
• 1/4 cup olive oil
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh basil for garnish (optional)

Instructions

1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Prepare the Baking Dish: In a baking dish, combine the cherry tomatoes, olive oil, minced garlic, oregano, salt, and pepper. Place the block of feta cheese in the center.
3. Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, until the tomatoes are blistered and the feta is soft and golden.
4. Cook the Pasta: While the feta and tomatoes are baking, cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
5. Combine: Once the feta and tomatoes are done, remove from the oven and mash the feta with a fork, mixing it with the tomatoes and oil to create a creamy sauce. Add the cooked pasta and stir to combine.
6. Serve: Garnish with fresh basil if desired and serve hot.

Cook and Prep Times

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Total Time: 40 minutes

• Servings: 4 servings
• Calories: 450kcal
• Fat: 20g
• Protein: 15g
• Carbohydrates: 55g