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Baked Feta Pasta Creamy and Easy Weeknight Meal

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To make baked feta pasta, you need simple and fresh ingredients. Here’s what you will gather: - 1 block (8 oz) of feta cheese - 2 cups cherry tomatoes - 3 cloves garlic, minced - 1 teaspoon dried oregano - ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (adjust to taste) - 2 tablespoons olive oil - 12 oz pasta of your choice (penne or fusilli work well) - Fresh basil leaves, for garnish - Salt and pepper to taste - ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional) These ingredients work together to create a creamy and rich dish. The feta melts beautifully, adding flavor to the sauce. While the main ingredients shine, you can enhance the dish with a few extras. Consider adding: - Lemon zest for brightness - Olives for a briny kick - Spinach or arugula for a fresh green element - Sun-dried tomatoes for depth These optional ingredients can take your baked feta pasta to the next level. They add layers of flavor that make each bite special. You can easily swap ingredients based on what you have at home. Here are some ideas: - Use goat cheese instead of feta for a tangy twist. - Swap cherry tomatoes for diced regular tomatoes if needed. - Try different herbs like thyme or basil if you don’t have oregano. - Use whole wheat or gluten-free pasta for dietary needs. These substitutions keep the dish delicious while making it more accessible for you. Experimenting with swaps can lead to delightful discoveries in flavor! {{ingredient_image_1}} Start by gathering all your ingredients. You will need: - 1 block (8 oz) of feta cheese - 2 cups cherry tomatoes - 3 cloves garlic, minced - 1 teaspoon dried oregano - ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes - 2 tablespoons olive oil - 12 oz pasta (penne or fusilli work well) - Fresh basil leaves for garnish - Salt and pepper to taste - ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional) Once you have everything, preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). This step is key to getting that nice, soft feta. In a baking dish, mix the cherry tomatoes, minced garlic, dried oregano, red pepper flakes, and olive oil. Season them with salt and pepper. Make sure to coat everything well. Next, place the block of feta cheese right in the center. Drizzle a bit more olive oil over the feta if you like. Bake this in your preheated oven for about 25-30 minutes. The tomatoes will burst, and the feta will turn soft and golden. While the feta and tomatoes are baking, cook your pasta. Follow the package instructions and cook it until it is al dente. This means it should still have a little bite to it. Once done, drain the pasta and set it aside. After the feta and tomatoes are out of the oven, use a fork or spoon to mix them. You want to create a creamy sauce by combining the melted feta with the burst tomatoes. Now, add the cooked pasta to the baking dish. Stir everything together until the pasta is well coated in that creamy sauce. If it feels too thick, add a splash of pasta water. For a cheesy boost, fold in the grated Parmesan cheese if you want. Finally, garnish your dish with fresh basil leaves. This adds a nice touch and flavor. Enjoy your meal! To make the sauce creamy, you need to blend the feta and tomatoes well. After baking, use a fork or spoon to mash the feta into the tomatoes. This creates a rich sauce. If the sauce seems thick, add some pasta water. This will help loosen it while keeping it creamy. The red pepper flakes add heat. If you like it spicy, keep the amount. For less heat, reduce it. You can also use fresh chili for a different flavor. Remember, you can always add more spice later, but it’s hard to take it out once added. I love to serve this dish with fresh basil on top. It adds color and taste. You can pair it with a side salad for crunch. Garlic bread is also a great choice. For a boost, sprinkle some grated Parmesan cheese on top. This adds extra creaminess and flavor. Pro Tips Perfectly Roasted Tomatoes: For a sweeter flavor, use ripe cherry tomatoes and roast them until they burst to release their juices, enhancing the dish's overall taste. Feta Variations: Experiment with flavored feta cheese varieties, such as herb or chili-infused, to add an extra layer of complexity to your baked pasta. Pasta Choice: While penne and fusilli work well, any pasta shape that holds sauce effectively will do. Try using whole wheat or gluten-free pasta for a healthier option. Fresh Herbs Finish: Don’t skip the fresh basil garnish; it brightens the dish and adds a fresh aroma that complements the baked feta and tomatoes beautifully. {{image_2}} If you want a vegetarian version, skip the cheese. Use a block of firm tofu instead of feta. Marinate the tofu in olive oil and spices before baking. This adds flavor and keeps it creamy. For a vegan option, replace Parmesan with nutritional yeast. It gives a cheesy taste without dairy. You can also add more veggies, like spinach or bell peppers, for extra nutrition. For a heartier meal, add protein. Cooked chicken breast works great. Simply chop it into pieces and stir it in with the pasta. Shrimp is another tasty choice. Cook shrimp until pink and juicy, then mix them in. If you prefer plant-based protein, use cubed tofu. Just make sure to season it well before mixing it in. Each option boosts flavor and makes the dish more filling. Baked feta pasta is flexible. You can use any pasta you like. Penne and fusilli are popular, but don’t stop there! Try farfalle, spaghetti, or even gluten-free pasta. Each shape holds sauce differently, giving you varied tastes. Cook the pasta according to the package. You want it al dente for the best texture. Feel free to experiment with different shapes for fun! To store leftovers, let the baked feta pasta cool first. Place it in an airtight container. This helps keep it fresh. You can store it in the fridge for up to three days. Make sure to cover it well. This keeps the flavors locked in. When you're ready to eat, you can easily reheat it. Use the microwave for quick heating. Place a portion on a microwave-safe plate and cover it. Heat it for about one to two minutes. Stir halfway through to ensure even heating. You can also reheat it on the stove. Just add a splash of water or olive oil to help it warm up. This keeps the pasta from drying out. If you want to freeze it, make sure it’s completely cool first. Place it in freezer-safe bags or containers. Squeeze out as much air as you can to prevent freezer burn. It can last for up to three months in the freezer. When ready to eat, thaw it in the fridge overnight. Reheat as mentioned above. This way, you can enjoy your baked feta pasta anytime! I find that penne or fusilli work best for Baked Feta Pasta. These shapes hold sauce well. The ridges catch bits of creamy feta and tomato, making each bite flavorful. You can also use other pasta types, like rotini or farfalle. Just remember to cook the pasta al dente for the best texture. Yes, you can swap out feta for other cheeses. Goat cheese gives a tangy flavor. Cream cheese makes it extra creamy. Ricotta adds a soft texture. Each cheese will change the taste, so pick one you love. Baked Feta Pasta stays good in the fridge for about 3 to 5 days. Store it in an airtight container. If it thickens, add a splash of water or olive oil when reheating. Absolutely! Baked Feta Pasta is perfect for meal prep. Make a big batch and divide it into servings. It saves well and reheats nicely, making weeknight dinners easy and quick. Baked feta pasta is easy to make and packed with flavor. We covered key ingredients, step-by-step cooking, and helpful tips. You can customize it with your favorite add-ins, too. This dish is perfect for a meal prep or quick dinner. Use the storage info to save leftovers. Enjoy your creamy, cheesy pasta whenever you want! Cooking can be fun, and this recipe brings joy to your table. Dive into the world of baked feta pasta, and share it with others.

WANT TO SAVE THIS RECIPE?

Looking for a quick yet delicious dinner idea? Baked Feta Pasta is your answer! This creamy dish combines simple ingredients for an easy weeknight meal that everyone will love. Whether you’re a busy parent or just short on time, I’ll guide you step-by-step to create a hearty pasta dish with rich flavors. Let’s dive in and transform your dinner routine with this mouthwatering recipe!

Jump to Recipe

Why I Love This Recipe

  1. Easy Preparation: This recipe requires minimal prep work, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
  2. Flavor Explosion: The combination of roasted tomatoes and creamy feta creates a deliciously rich sauce.
  3. Versatile: You can easily customize it with your favorite pasta or add vegetables for extra nutrition.
  4. Impressive Presentation: This dish looks as good as it tastes, making it great for entertaining guests.

Ingredients

Main Ingredients for Baked Feta Pasta

To make baked feta pasta, you need simple and fresh ingredients. Here’s what you will gather:

– 1 block (8 oz) of feta cheese

– 2 cups cherry tomatoes

– 3 cloves garlic, minced

– 1 teaspoon dried oregano

– ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (adjust to taste)

– 2 tablespoons olive oil

– 12 oz pasta of your choice (penne or fusilli work well)

– Fresh basil leaves, for garnish

– Salt and pepper to taste

– ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional)

These ingredients work together to create a creamy and rich dish. The feta melts beautifully, adding flavor to the sauce.

Optional Ingredients for Extra Flavor

While the main ingredients shine, you can enhance the dish with a few extras. Consider adding:

– Lemon zest for brightness

– Olives for a briny kick

– Spinach or arugula for a fresh green element

– Sun-dried tomatoes for depth

These optional ingredients can take your baked feta pasta to the next level. They add layers of flavor that make each bite special.

Ingredient Substitutions

You can easily swap ingredients based on what you have at home. Here are some ideas:

– Use goat cheese instead of feta for a tangy twist.

– Swap cherry tomatoes for diced regular tomatoes if needed.

– Try different herbs like thyme or basil if you don’t have oregano.

– Use whole wheat or gluten-free pasta for dietary needs.

These substitutions keep the dish delicious while making it more accessible for you. Experimenting with swaps can lead to delightful discoveries in flavor!

Step-by-Step Instructions

Preparing the Ingredients

Start by gathering all your ingredients. You will need:

– 1 block (8 oz) of feta cheese

– 2 cups cherry tomatoes

– 3 cloves garlic, minced

– 1 teaspoon dried oregano

– ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes

– 2 tablespoons olive oil

– 12 oz pasta (penne or fusilli work well)

– Fresh basil leaves for garnish

– Salt and pepper to taste

– ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional)

Once you have everything, preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). This step is key to getting that nice, soft feta.

Baking the Feta and Tomatoes

In a baking dish, mix the cherry tomatoes, minced garlic, dried oregano, red pepper flakes, and olive oil. Season them with salt and pepper. Make sure to coat everything well.

Next, place the block of feta cheese right in the center. Drizzle a bit more olive oil over the feta if you like. Bake this in your preheated oven for about 25-30 minutes. The tomatoes will burst, and the feta will turn soft and golden.

Cooking the Pasta

While the feta and tomatoes are baking, cook your pasta. Follow the package instructions and cook it until it is al dente. This means it should still have a little bite to it. Once done, drain the pasta and set it aside.

Combining Everything

After the feta and tomatoes are out of the oven, use a fork or spoon to mix them. You want to create a creamy sauce by combining the melted feta with the burst tomatoes.

Now, add the cooked pasta to the baking dish. Stir everything together until the pasta is well coated in that creamy sauce. If it feels too thick, add a splash of pasta water. For a cheesy boost, fold in the grated Parmesan cheese if you want.

Finally, garnish your dish with fresh basil leaves. This adds a nice touch and flavor. Enjoy your meal!

Tips & Tricks

How to Achieve the Perfect Creamy Sauce

To make the sauce creamy, you need to blend the feta and tomatoes well. After baking, use a fork or spoon to mash the feta into the tomatoes. This creates a rich sauce. If the sauce seems thick, add some pasta water. This will help loosen it while keeping it creamy.

Adjusting Spice Levels

The red pepper flakes add heat. If you like it spicy, keep the amount. For less heat, reduce it. You can also use fresh chili for a different flavor. Remember, you can always add more spice later, but it’s hard to take it out once added.

Serving Suggestions and Pairings

I love to serve this dish with fresh basil on top. It adds color and taste. You can pair it with a side salad for crunch. Garlic bread is also a great choice. For a boost, sprinkle some grated Parmesan cheese on top. This adds extra creaminess and flavor.

Pro Tips

  1. Perfectly Roasted Tomatoes: For a sweeter flavor, use ripe cherry tomatoes and roast them until they burst to release their juices, enhancing the dish’s overall taste.
  2. Feta Variations: Experiment with flavored feta cheese varieties, such as herb or chili-infused, to add an extra layer of complexity to your baked pasta.
  3. Pasta Choice: While penne and fusilli work well, any pasta shape that holds sauce effectively will do. Try using whole wheat or gluten-free pasta for a healthier option.
  4. Fresh Herbs Finish: Don’t skip the fresh basil garnish; it brightens the dish and adds a fresh aroma that complements the baked feta and tomatoes beautifully.

Variations

Vegetarian and Vegan Alternatives

If you want a vegetarian version, skip the cheese. Use a block of firm tofu instead of feta. Marinate the tofu in olive oil and spices before baking. This adds flavor and keeps it creamy. For a vegan option, replace Parmesan with nutritional yeast. It gives a cheesy taste without dairy. You can also add more veggies, like spinach or bell peppers, for extra nutrition.

Protein Add-Ins: Chicken, Shrimp, or Tofu

For a heartier meal, add protein. Cooked chicken breast works great. Simply chop it into pieces and stir it in with the pasta. Shrimp is another tasty choice. Cook shrimp until pink and juicy, then mix them in. If you prefer plant-based protein, use cubed tofu. Just make sure to season it well before mixing it in. Each option boosts flavor and makes the dish more filling.

Different Pasta Options

Baked feta pasta is flexible. You can use any pasta you like. Penne and fusilli are popular, but don’t stop there! Try farfalle, spaghetti, or even gluten-free pasta. Each shape holds sauce differently, giving you varied tastes. Cook the pasta according to the package. You want it al dente for the best texture. Feel free to experiment with different shapes for fun!

Storage Info

How to Store Leftovers

To store leftovers, let the baked feta pasta cool first. Place it in an airtight container. This helps keep it fresh. You can store it in the fridge for up to three days. Make sure to cover it well. This keeps the flavors locked in.

Reheating Instructions

When you’re ready to eat, you can easily reheat it. Use the microwave for quick heating. Place a portion on a microwave-safe plate and cover it. Heat it for about one to two minutes. Stir halfway through to ensure even heating. You can also reheat it on the stove. Just add a splash of water or olive oil to help it warm up. This keeps the pasta from drying out.

Freezing Baked Feta Pasta

If you want to freeze it, make sure it’s completely cool first. Place it in freezer-safe bags or containers. Squeeze out as much air as you can to prevent freezer burn. It can last for up to three months in the freezer. When ready to eat, thaw it in the fridge overnight. Reheat as mentioned above. This way, you can enjoy your baked feta pasta anytime!

FAQs

What type of pasta is best for Baked Feta Pasta?

I find that penne or fusilli work best for Baked Feta Pasta. These shapes hold sauce well. The ridges catch bits of creamy feta and tomato, making each bite flavorful. You can also use other pasta types, like rotini or farfalle. Just remember to cook the pasta al dente for the best texture.

Can I use a different type of cheese?

Yes, you can swap out feta for other cheeses. Goat cheese gives a tangy flavor. Cream cheese makes it extra creamy. Ricotta adds a soft texture. Each cheese will change the taste, so pick one you love.

How long does Baked Feta Pasta last in the fridge?

Baked Feta Pasta stays good in the fridge for about 3 to 5 days. Store it in an airtight container. If it thickens, add a splash of water or olive oil when reheating.

Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?

Absolutely! Baked Feta Pasta is perfect for meal prep. Make a big batch and divide it into servings. It saves well and reheats nicely, making weeknight dinners easy and quick.

Baked feta pasta is easy to make and packed with flavor. We covered key ingredients, step-by-step cooking, and helpful tips. You can customize it with your favorite add-ins, too. This dish is perfect for a meal prep or quick dinner. Use the storage info to save leftovers. Enjoy your creamy, cheesy pasta whenever you want! Cooking can be fun, and this recipe brings joy to your table. Dive into the world of baked feta pasta, and share it with other

To make baked feta pasta, you need simple and fresh ingredients. Here’s what you will gather: - 1 block (8 oz) of feta cheese - 2 cups cherry tomatoes - 3 cloves garlic, minced - 1 teaspoon dried oregano - ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (adjust to taste) - 2 tablespoons olive oil - 12 oz pasta of your choice (penne or fusilli work well) - Fresh basil leaves, for garnish - Salt and pepper to taste - ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional) These ingredients work together to create a creamy and rich dish. The feta melts beautifully, adding flavor to the sauce. While the main ingredients shine, you can enhance the dish with a few extras. Consider adding: - Lemon zest for brightness - Olives for a briny kick - Spinach or arugula for a fresh green element - Sun-dried tomatoes for depth These optional ingredients can take your baked feta pasta to the next level. They add layers of flavor that make each bite special. You can easily swap ingredients based on what you have at home. Here are some ideas: - Use goat cheese instead of feta for a tangy twist. - Swap cherry tomatoes for diced regular tomatoes if needed. - Try different herbs like thyme or basil if you don’t have oregano. - Use whole wheat or gluten-free pasta for dietary needs. These substitutions keep the dish delicious while making it more accessible for you. Experimenting with swaps can lead to delightful discoveries in flavor! {{ingredient_image_1}} Start by gathering all your ingredients. You will need: - 1 block (8 oz) of feta cheese - 2 cups cherry tomatoes - 3 cloves garlic, minced - 1 teaspoon dried oregano - ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes - 2 tablespoons olive oil - 12 oz pasta (penne or fusilli work well) - Fresh basil leaves for garnish - Salt and pepper to taste - ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional) Once you have everything, preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). This step is key to getting that nice, soft feta. In a baking dish, mix the cherry tomatoes, minced garlic, dried oregano, red pepper flakes, and olive oil. Season them with salt and pepper. Make sure to coat everything well. Next, place the block of feta cheese right in the center. Drizzle a bit more olive oil over the feta if you like. Bake this in your preheated oven for about 25-30 minutes. The tomatoes will burst, and the feta will turn soft and golden. While the feta and tomatoes are baking, cook your pasta. Follow the package instructions and cook it until it is al dente. This means it should still have a little bite to it. Once done, drain the pasta and set it aside. After the feta and tomatoes are out of the oven, use a fork or spoon to mix them. You want to create a creamy sauce by combining the melted feta with the burst tomatoes. Now, add the cooked pasta to the baking dish. Stir everything together until the pasta is well coated in that creamy sauce. If it feels too thick, add a splash of pasta water. For a cheesy boost, fold in the grated Parmesan cheese if you want. Finally, garnish your dish with fresh basil leaves. This adds a nice touch and flavor. Enjoy your meal! To make the sauce creamy, you need to blend the feta and tomatoes well. After baking, use a fork or spoon to mash the feta into the tomatoes. This creates a rich sauce. If the sauce seems thick, add some pasta water. This will help loosen it while keeping it creamy. The red pepper flakes add heat. If you like it spicy, keep the amount. For less heat, reduce it. You can also use fresh chili for a different flavor. Remember, you can always add more spice later, but it’s hard to take it out once added. I love to serve this dish with fresh basil on top. It adds color and taste. You can pair it with a side salad for crunch. Garlic bread is also a great choice. For a boost, sprinkle some grated Parmesan cheese on top. This adds extra creaminess and flavor. Pro Tips Perfectly Roasted Tomatoes: For a sweeter flavor, use ripe cherry tomatoes and roast them until they burst to release their juices, enhancing the dish's overall taste. Feta Variations: Experiment with flavored feta cheese varieties, such as herb or chili-infused, to add an extra layer of complexity to your baked pasta. Pasta Choice: While penne and fusilli work well, any pasta shape that holds sauce effectively will do. Try using whole wheat or gluten-free pasta for a healthier option. Fresh Herbs Finish: Don’t skip the fresh basil garnish; it brightens the dish and adds a fresh aroma that complements the baked feta and tomatoes beautifully. {{image_2}} If you want a vegetarian version, skip the cheese. Use a block of firm tofu instead of feta. Marinate the tofu in olive oil and spices before baking. This adds flavor and keeps it creamy. For a vegan option, replace Parmesan with nutritional yeast. It gives a cheesy taste without dairy. You can also add more veggies, like spinach or bell peppers, for extra nutrition. For a heartier meal, add protein. Cooked chicken breast works great. Simply chop it into pieces and stir it in with the pasta. Shrimp is another tasty choice. Cook shrimp until pink and juicy, then mix them in. If you prefer plant-based protein, use cubed tofu. Just make sure to season it well before mixing it in. Each option boosts flavor and makes the dish more filling. Baked feta pasta is flexible. You can use any pasta you like. Penne and fusilli are popular, but don’t stop there! Try farfalle, spaghetti, or even gluten-free pasta. Each shape holds sauce differently, giving you varied tastes. Cook the pasta according to the package. You want it al dente for the best texture. Feel free to experiment with different shapes for fun! To store leftovers, let the baked feta pasta cool first. Place it in an airtight container. This helps keep it fresh. You can store it in the fridge for up to three days. Make sure to cover it well. This keeps the flavors locked in. When you're ready to eat, you can easily reheat it. Use the microwave for quick heating. Place a portion on a microwave-safe plate and cover it. Heat it for about one to two minutes. Stir halfway through to ensure even heating. You can also reheat it on the stove. Just add a splash of water or olive oil to help it warm up. This keeps the pasta from drying out. If you want to freeze it, make sure it’s completely cool first. Place it in freezer-safe bags or containers. Squeeze out as much air as you can to prevent freezer burn. It can last for up to three months in the freezer. When ready to eat, thaw it in the fridge overnight. Reheat as mentioned above. This way, you can enjoy your baked feta pasta anytime! I find that penne or fusilli work best for Baked Feta Pasta. These shapes hold sauce well. The ridges catch bits of creamy feta and tomato, making each bite flavorful. You can also use other pasta types, like rotini or farfalle. Just remember to cook the pasta al dente for the best texture. Yes, you can swap out feta for other cheeses. Goat cheese gives a tangy flavor. Cream cheese makes it extra creamy. Ricotta adds a soft texture. Each cheese will change the taste, so pick one you love. Baked Feta Pasta stays good in the fridge for about 3 to 5 days. Store it in an airtight container. If it thickens, add a splash of water or olive oil when reheating. Absolutely! Baked Feta Pasta is perfect for meal prep. Make a big batch and divide it into servings. It saves well and reheats nicely, making weeknight dinners easy and quick. Baked feta pasta is easy to make and packed with flavor. We covered key ingredients, step-by-step cooking, and helpful tips. You can customize it with your favorite add-ins, too. This dish is perfect for a meal prep or quick dinner. Use the storage info to save leftovers. Enjoy your creamy, cheesy pasta whenever you want! Cooking can be fun, and this recipe brings joy to your table. Dive into the world of baked feta pasta, and share it with others.

Baked Feta Pasta Delight

A creamy and flavorful pasta dish featuring baked feta cheese and cherry tomatoes.
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 40 minutes
Course Main Course
Cuisine Mediterranean
Servings 4

Ingredients
  

  • 8 oz feta cheese
  • 2 cups cherry tomatoes
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
  • 0.5 teaspoon red pepper flakes
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 12 oz pasta of your choice
  • 1 bunch fresh basil leaves, for garnish
  • to taste salt and pepper
  • 0.5 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional)

Instructions
 

  • Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
  • In a baking dish, combine the cherry tomatoes, minced garlic, dried oregano, red pepper flakes, and olive oil. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
  • Place the block of feta cheese in the center of the tomatoes. Drizzle a little more olive oil over the feta if desired.
  • Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, until the tomatoes burst and the feta is soft and golden on top.
  • While the feta and tomatoes are baking, cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
  • Once the feta and tomatoes are done, remove the baking dish from the oven. Using a fork or spoon, mix the melted feta with the tomatoes, creating a creamy sauce.
  • Add the cooked pasta to the baking dish and stir until well coated with the sauce. If the mixture is too thick, you can add a splash of pasta water to achieve your desired consistency.
  • Optionally, fold in the grated Parmesan cheese for an extra cheesy flavor.
  • Garnish with fresh basil leaves before serving.

Notes

Adjust red pepper flakes to taste for desired spiciness.
Keyword baked, feta, pasta, tomatoes

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