Baked Feta Pasta

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: With just a few ingredients and straightforward steps, this recipe is perfect for busy weeknights.

• Flavorful: The combination of roasted tomatoes and melted feta creates a creamy, tangy sauce that's hard to resist.

• Versatile: Easily customize with your choice of pasta or add-ins like spinach or olives.

• Minimal Cleanup: Everything bakes in one dish, reducing the number of pots and pans to wash.

• Crowd-Pleaser: Its rich flavors and appealing presentation make it a hit at gatherings.

Ingredients

(Tip: You'll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• 2 ½ cups grape tomatoes, washed and dried

• 1 (8 oz) block of feta cheese

• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning

• ½ teaspoon salt

• 5 tablespoons olive oil

• ¼ cup chopped fresh basil

• 12 oz bow tie pasta, cooked, drained, and kept warm

Directions

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).

2. Place the grape tomatoes in a medium-sized baking dish.

3. Position the block of feta cheese in the center of the tomatoes.

4. Drizzle 3 tablespoons of olive oil over the tomatoes and cheese.

5. Sprinkle Italian seasoning and salt over the mixture.

6. Drizzle the remaining 2 tablespoons of olive oil over the feta.

7. Bake for 30-35 minutes, until the tomatoes burst and the cheese softens.

8. Remove from the oven and stir the cheese and tomatoes until well combined.

9. Add the chopped fresh basil and mix in the cooked pasta until everything is well coated.

10. Serve hot and enjoy!

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 4

• Prep Time: 15 minutes

• Cook Time: 35 minutes

• Total Time: 50 minutes

Variations

• Pasta Choices: Substitute bow tie pasta with penne, macaroni, orecchiette, or conchiglie.

• Cheese Alternatives: Try goat cheese, halloumi, ricotta, or queso fresco in place of feta.

• Herb Substitutions: Use Herbes de Provence or your favorite herbs and spices like red pepper flakes.

• Add-ins: Enhance the dish with chopped roasted bell peppers, olives, canned artichokes, or fresh spinach leaves.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Allow the pasta to cool to room temperature before storing leftovers in an airtight container. Refrigerate for up to 4 days.

• Reheating: Add a tablespoon of water and microwave for 2 or more minutes, covered, until hot. Freezing this pasta is not recommended.

FAQs

How can I make this dish spicier?

Add red pepper flakes or chopped chili peppers before baking to introduce some heat.

Can I use crumbled feta instead of a block?

Yes, but a block of feta melts more uniformly, creating a creamier sauce. If using crumbled feta, pile it in the center of the dish.

Is it possible to make this dish vegan?

Substitute the feta with a plant-based cheese alternative and ensure your pasta is egg-free.

What other herbs can I use besides basil?

Fresh parsley, thyme, or oregano can be used to add different flavor profiles.

Can I add protein to this dish?

Absolutely! Grilled chicken, shrimp, or chickpeas make great additions.

How do I prevent the sauce from being too dry?

Reserve some pasta water and add it to the dish when mixing to achieve your desired sauce consistency.

Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?

It's best enjoyed fresh, but you can prepare the tomato and feta mixture ahead and bake when ready to serve.

What type of baking dish should I use?

A medium-sized oven-safe dish, such as a 9x13-inch baking dish, works well.

Can I use other types of tomatoes?

Cherry tomatoes or a cherry tomato medley are great alternatives to grape tomatoes.

Is it necessary to use olive oil?

Olive oil is essential for this recipe, providing flavor and helping to create the sauce.

Conclusion

Baked Feta Pasta is a delightful and easy-to-make dish that brings together the creamy richness of feta cheese and the vibrant flavors of roasted tomatoes. Its simplicity and versatility make it a perfect choice for both weeknight dinners and special occasions. Give this viral recipe a try and enjoy a comforting, flavorful meal that's sure to impress.