Creamy Tomato Feta Pasta

Prepare for your new favorite go-to meal: the incredibly viral Baked Feta Pasta. This celebrated dish, which took social media by storm, offers a delicious solution for busy weeknights, blending simplicity with extraordinary flavor. Imagine plump cherry tomatoes, fragrant garlic, fresh basil, and a generous block of creamy feta cheese, all baked together until the tomatoes burst with sweetness and the feta turns wonderfully soft and melty. Once out of the oven, this savory mixture transforms into a luscious sauce, ready to be tossed with your favorite pasta. It’s truly a one-pan wonder that delivers gourmet taste with minimal effort, making it perfect for both novice cooks and seasoned chefs alike.

Beyond its viral fame, this baked feta pasta recipe stands out for its straightforward approach and the vibrant, fresh ingredients it champions. It celebrates the Mediterranean philosophy of simple, high-quality components coming together to create something truly magical. The roasting process deepens the flavors of the tomatoes and garlic, creating a sweet and aromatic base that perfectly complements the tangy, salty richness of the feta. This effortless casserole proves that wholesome, flavorful meals don’t require hours in the kitchen, offering a delightful and satisfying experience every time.

Looking for more comforting pasta dishes? Next time, explore this creamy chicken spaghetti, a delightful blend of Rotel tomatoes and sharp cheddar cheese, promising another family favorite.

Why You’ll Fall in Love with Baked Feta Pasta

This Baked Feta Pasta is more than just a recipe; it’s a culinary revelation that makes dinner an absolute breeze. Here’s why it’s destined to become a staple in your kitchen:

• **Effortless & Hands-Off:** The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity. Most of the work involves tossing ingredients into a baking dish and letting your oven do the heavy lifting. This truly “dump and bake” method frees up your time, allowing you to focus on other tasks while dinner practically cooks itself.
• **Simple, Accessible Ingredients:** You likely have most of the ingredients in your pantry already. Fresh cherry tomatoes, a block of feta cheese, olive oil, garlic, and a few basic seasonings are all you need. These readily available items ensure that a delicious, homemade meal is always within reach.
• **Incredible Flavor Profile:** The combination of sweet, roasted tomatoes, aromatic garlic, and salty, tangy feta creates a symphony of flavors that is both comforting and sophisticated. The roasting process caramelizes the tomatoes, enhancing their natural sweetness, which beautifully balances the richness of the melted feta. A sprinkle of fresh basil at the end adds a burst of herbaceous freshness.
• **Highly Versatile & Forgiving:** This recipe is incredibly adaptable. Don’t have cherry tomatoes? Grape tomatoes or even chopped Roma tomatoes work well. Not a huge fan of feta? There are plenty of delightful cheese substitutions discussed below. You can easily adjust the herbs, add a hint of spice, or even incorporate protein, making it perfect for customizing to your taste and dietary needs.
• **Minimal Cleanup:** Since everything bakes in a single dish, cleanup is remarkably simple. Fewer pots and pans mean less time scrubbing and more time enjoying your delicious creation. This is a game-changer for busy evenings.
• **A Viral Sensation for Good Reason:** This recipe didn’t go viral on social media by accident. Its undeniable ease, stunning visual appeal, and outstanding flavor captured the hearts (and stomachs) of millions worldwide. Join the movement and discover what all the fuss is about!

Essential Ingredients for Your Perfect Feta Pasta

Crafting this irresistible Baked Feta Pasta begins with a handful of fresh, quality ingredients. While the original recipe is fantastic as is, understanding each component and its role can help you master the dish and even experiment with variations. This is an overview; full measurements are in the recipe card at the bottom of the page.

Ingredient Notes & Flavorful Variations

• **Feta Cheese:** The star of the show! For the creamiest, most authentic texture and flavor, seek out **Greek feta cheese made from sheep’s milk**. This variety melts beautifully and provides that signature tangy, salty profile without becoming gritty. While cow’s milk feta can be used, it sometimes results in a slightly drier or grainier sauce; if using, be prepared to add a little extra pasta water for smoothness. Always use a block of feta, not pre-crumbled, as the block holds its shape better and melts into a richer sauce.
• **Extra Virgin Olive Oil:** A high-quality extra virgin olive oil is crucial here. It not only helps roast the vegetables to perfection but also forms the base of your delicious sauce. Its fruity, peppery notes enhance the overall flavor significantly.
• **Fresh Garlic:** There’s no substitute for fresh garlic in this recipe. When roasted alongside the tomatoes, it softens, sweetens, and loses its pungent edge, infusing the entire dish with a mellow, aromatic depth. Minced or thinly sliced garlic works best.
• **Cherry or Grape Tomatoes:** These small, sweet tomatoes are ideal as they burst beautifully when roasted, releasing their juices and creating a vibrant, naturally sweet sauce. Both cherry and grape varieties work equally well, offering a concentrated burst of flavor. Don’t overcrowd your baking dish, allowing them space to roast rather than steam.
• **Herbs & Seasonings:**
  • **Dry Oregano:** A classic Mediterranean herb, oregano adds an earthy, aromatic note that complements both the tomatoes and feta.
  • **Fresh Basil:** This is added at the very end to preserve its bright, peppery freshness. It provides a delightful contrast to the rich, roasted flavors. Don’t skip the fresh basil!
  • **Salt & Black Pepper:** Season generously to taste, enhancing all the natural flavors.
  • **Optional Spice:** For a hint of heat, consider adding a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes along with the other seasonings.
• **Pasta:** The beauty of this dish is its flexibility with pasta shapes. Use any pasta you love or have on hand. Short pasta shapes like penne, rotini, farfalle, or orecchiette are excellent as they capture the sauce wonderfully. Long pasta like spaghetti or linguine also works beautifully. If you’re looking for a low-carb alternative, zucchini noodles (zoodles) are a fantastic option; just add them at the very end and toss to coat, as they don’t require cooking.

Step-by-Step: Crafting Your Delicious Baked Feta Pasta

Preparing this viral sensation is incredibly straightforward. Follow these simple steps to create a show-stopping meal with minimal fuss. Note: This is an overview of the instructions. The detailed steps and exact measurements are provided in the printable recipe card at the bottom of the page.

1. **Prepare Your Oven:** Begin by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). This ensures it’s perfectly hot and ready for roasting.
2. **Assemble the Base:** In a 13×9 inch (or similar sized) baking dish, spread your cherry or grape tomatoes evenly. Drizzle them with 3 tablespoons of extra virgin olive oil, then sprinkle with dry oregano, minced fresh garlic, salt, and black pepper. Toss gently to ensure all the tomatoes are well coated with the oil and seasonings.
3. **Position the Feta:** Create a small space in the center of the tomato mixture and place the entire block of feta cheese there. Drizzle the remaining tablespoon of olive oil over the feta and add a tiny pinch more of dry oregano on top. This ensures the feta gets beautifully roasted and infused with flavor.
4. **Initial Bake:** Transfer the baking dish to your preheated oven and bake for 20 minutes. During this time, the tomatoes will begin to soften and release their juices, and the feta will start to warm through.
5. **Intensify the Roast:** After 20 minutes, increase the oven temperature to 450°F (230°C) and continue baking for another 10 minutes. This higher heat helps the tomatoes caramelize and burst, and the feta to become wonderfully golden and melty, creating a richer, more flavorful sauce.
6. **Cook the Pasta:** While the feta and tomatoes are baking, cook your chosen pasta al dente according to the package directions. It’s crucial to reserve about a cup of the starchy pasta cooking water before draining, as this liquid is your secret weapon for achieving a perfectly smooth and creamy sauce.
7. **Create the Sauce:** Once the baking dish is removed from the oven, immediately use a fork or potato masher to thoroughly mash the roasted tomatoes and melted feta together. Mix vigorously until it forms a creamy, chunky sauce. The hot tomatoes and soft feta will combine easily.
8. **Add Freshness & Pasta:** Stir in the chopped fresh basil. Then, add the cooked and drained pasta directly into the baking dish with the sauce. Mix everything thoroughly, ensuring every strand of pasta is coated with the vibrant, flavorful sauce.
9. **Adjust Consistency (If Needed):** If the sauce feels too thick or isn’t as smooth as you’d like, gradually add a tablespoon or two of the reserved pasta cooking water, mixing well after each addition, until you reach your desired consistency. The pasta water helps emulsify the sauce and gives it a silky texture.
10. **Serve & Garnish:** Divide the delicious Baked Feta Pasta into bowls and, if desired, garnish with a few extra fresh basil leaves or a drizzle of olive oil for an elevated presentation and added flavor. Serve immediately and enjoy!

Amira’s Expert Tips for the Best Baked Feta Pasta

While the Baked Feta Pasta recipe is straightforward, these tips and tricks from Amira’s kitchen will elevate your dish from simply good to absolutely unforgettable:

• **Spice It Up (or Not!):** The original viral recipe often included fresh chile pepper, and many variations use crushed red pepper flakes for a kick. For a milder version, I omitted both in this recipe. However, if you love a bit of heat, feel free to add ½ teaspoon of crushed red pepper flakes to the tomatoes at the beginning of the baking process. Adjust to your preferred spice level.
• **Garlic Timing Matters:** My personal preference is to add the minced garlic from the very start, letting it roast alongside the tomatoes. This allows the garlic to mellow, sweeten, and develop a deeper, more complex flavor. If you prefer a sharper, more pungent garlic presence, you can add it in with the fresh basil after baking. Both methods work, so choose what suits your palate.
• **Choosing Your Feta Wisely:** As mentioned, authentic Greek feta made from sheep’s milk offers the creamiest texture when melted. If you opt for cow’s milk feta, you might find the sauce a bit grittier. Don’t worry, it’s still delicious! But if a super smooth sauce is what you’re after, be sure to save a generous amount of pasta boiling water. You can whisk it in with the mashed feta and tomatoes to achieve that desired silky consistency.
• **Stovetop Alternative:** No oven? No problem! This dish can absolutely be made entirely on the stovetop. Simply sauté the tomatoes and garlic in a large skillet with olive oil until they soften and burst. Then, crumble the feta over the hot tomatoes, cover, and let it melt slightly before mashing and tossing with pasta. The flavors will be slightly different, but still incredibly delicious.
• **Low-Carb Options:** For those watching their carb intake, easily transform this into a low-carb delight by substituting traditional pasta with zucchini noodles (zoodles). Simply add the raw zoodles to the hot sauce mixture right after mashing the feta and tomatoes, and toss until they are slightly softened but still retain a pleasant crunch.
• **Enhance the Umami:** For an extra layer of savory depth, consider adding a tablespoon of tomato paste to the tomatoes before baking. It will intensify the tomato flavor and color of the sauce.
• **Make it a Complete Meal:** While delicious on its own, this pasta also welcomes additions. Stir in some baby spinach or kale at the end for added greens, or integrate leftover cooked chicken, shrimp, or chickpeas for a boost of protein.

Frequently Asked Questions About Baked Feta Pasta

Perfect Pairings: What to Serve with Baked Feta Pasta

While Baked Feta Pasta is wonderfully satisfying on its own, pairing it with a few complementary sides can turn it into a truly memorable meal. Here are some suggestions:

• **Crispy Garlic Bread:** You simply can’t go wrong with a side of warm, crispy garlic bread to soak up every last drop of that delicious feta and tomato sauce. My Air Fryer Garlic Bread recipe is fantastic, offering a perfectly golden exterior and a soft, flavorful interior, making it the ideal accompaniment.
• **Fresh Green Salad:** A simple, crisp green salad with a light vinaigrette dressing provides a refreshing contrast to the richness of the pasta. Think mixed greens, cucumber, and a few cherry tomatoes for a balanced meal.
• **Roasted Vegetables:** Enhance the Mediterranean theme by serving additional roasted vegetables like asparagus, broccoli, or bell peppers. They can even be roasted on a separate pan alongside your pasta!
• **Decadent Dessert:** For a sweet finish, consider these Caramel Chocolate Chip Cookies. They are sweet, buttery, and perfectly rich, providing a delightful end to a hearty and flavorful meal.

Discover More Delightful Pasta & Mediterranean Recipes

If you’ve enjoyed the simplicity and flavor of this Baked Feta Pasta, you’ll love exploring these other comforting and delicious recipes from my kitchen, ranging from hearty casseroles to vibrant Mediterranean classics:

• Baked Ziti with Ground Beef: A classic comfort food, this hearty baked ziti is layered with rich ground beef sauce, tender pasta, and plenty of cheese. It’s a satisfying meal that’s perfect for feeding a crowd and can be easily made ahead of time for convenient weeknight dinners.
• Easy Beef Stroganoff: When you’re craving something fast and comforting, this creamy and lighter beef stroganoff recipe is your go-to. Tender beef in a luscious sauce makes for a family-favorite dinner that comes together in a flash.
• Koshari: Embark on a culinary journey with Koshari, a delicious and wholesome vegetarian Egyptian dish. It features a delightful combination of rice, pasta, and lentils, all crowned with a spicy, garlicky tomato sauce. Learn how to make authentic Koshari like a pro with this easy-to-follow recipe.
• Lasagna Recipe without Ricotta Cheese: For a unique twist on a special dinner, try this lasagna recipe that skips the ricotta. It offers a delicious and saucy take on the classic version, incredibly popular in the Middle East for its rich flavors and appealing texture.
• Ricotta Pasta: Need a quick answer to “what’s for dinner tonight?” This creamy, lemony, and incredibly simple ricotta pasta dish can stand proudly on its own as a main course or serve as a delightful side.
• Olive Garden Chicken Scampi: Recreate the beloved Olive Garden Chicken Scampi at home, made just as creamy and delicious but without the wine. Enjoy tender chicken in a rich sauce, topped with lightly sautéed vegetables—a satisfying 30-minute meal you’ll want to enjoy often.
• Broccoli Pasta: Brighten up any meal with this vibrant and flavorful broccoli pasta. It features crunchy broccoli and tender pasta enveloped in a creamy, zesty lemon sauce, making it a perfect light side dish or vegetarian main.

Baked Feta Pasta

This baked feta pasta recipe is a super easy solution for your weeknight dinners. Roasted cherry tomatoes, creamy feta, fresh basil, and a blend of pantry spices create a wonderful, flavorful sauce base for this comforting pasta dish.

Rating: 5 out of 5 stars from 4 votes

Print Recipe | Pin Recipe

Course: Main Course

Cuisine: Mediterranean

Diet: Halal, Vegetarian

Prep Time: 5 minutes

Cook Time: 30 minutes

Servings: 6 Servings

Calories: 352kcal

Author: Amira

Ingredients

• 2 pints (630g) grape/cherry tomatoes
• 1 teaspoon dry oregano plus a pinch more
• Salt and pepper to taste
• ¼ cup olive oil, divided
• 3 large garlic cloves, minced
• 1 (8oz) block feta cheese
• 1 cup loosely packed fresh basil leaves, chopped
• 8 oz (228g) dry pasta

Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a 13×9 baking dish, add tomatoes, 3 Tablespoons of olive oil, oregano, garlic, salt, and pepper. Toss to cover.
3. Place the block of feta in the middle and drizzle it with the remaining tablespoon of oil and a pinch of oregano.
4. Bake for 20 minutes, then crank up the temperature to 450°F (230°C) and bake for 10 minutes more.
5. Meanwhile, cook pasta al dente according to package directions. Reserve a cup of the cooking water.
6. As soon as it comes out of the oven, mash everything well with a fork or potato masher.
7. Add chopped basil and cooked pasta and mix well until thoroughly combined.
8. If the sauce is not as smooth as you like, add some reserved pasta water and mix until desired consistency is reached.
9. Serve into bowls and top with more basil leaves if desired.

Notes

• In the original viral recipe, some versions included fresh chile pepper or crushed red pepper flakes for heat. This recipe omits them, but feel free to add ½ teaspoon of red pepper flakes if you enjoy a spicy kick.
• You can use any pasta shape you have or prefer. Short pasta like penne or fusilli works well to scoop up the sauce, but long pasta is also delicious.
• For cheese substitutions, options include goat cheese, full-fat ricotta, crumbled feta (though a block is preferred for texture), burrata (added at the end), or even vegan feta. Many people have experimented with various cheeses successfully.
• I prefer roasting garlic with the tomatoes from the start to mellow its flavor. If you prefer a stronger garlic taste, you can add it in with the basil after baking.
• Using cow’s milk feta might result in a slightly grittier sauce texture. If this occurs and you prefer a smoother sauce, use a bit more reserved pasta boiling water when mixing.
• This dish can be made entirely on the stovetop in a large skillet if you don’t have an oven.
• For a low-carb version, substitute regular pasta with zoodles (zucchini noodles). Add them at the very end and toss until slightly tender.
• This dish is best enjoyed fresh, but leftovers can be refrigerated for up to 3 days. Reheat with a tablespoon or two of boiled water to restore sauce consistency.
• **Variations**: Add cooked chicken, shrimp, or canned tuna for extra protein. Stir in baby spinach or kale for added greens.
• For a vegan recipe: use vegan feta cheese and vegan pasta (e.g., chickpea pasta). Note that vegan feta may melt faster, so adjust baking time accordingly.
• Please check the nutrition disclaimer policy.

Nutrition

Calories: 352kcal | Carbohydrates: 37g | Protein: 12g | Fat: 18g | Saturated Fat: 7g | Cholesterol: 34mg | Sodium: 442mg | Potassium: 474mg | Fiber: 3g | Sugar: 7g | Vitamin A: 1148IU | Vitamin C: 37mg | Calcium: 227mg | Iron: 2mg

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