![When making Baked Feta Pasta, you need some simple ingredients that pack a punch. Here’s what you’ll need: - 8 ounces of pasta (penne or rigatoni) - 1 block (8 ounces) of feta cheese - 1 pint of cherry tomatoes, halved - ¼ cup of olive oil - 4 cloves of garlic, minced - 1 teaspoon of dried oregano - ½ teaspoon of red pepper flakes (adjust to taste) - Salt and pepper to taste - ¼ cup of fresh basil, chopped (for garnish) - Zest of 1 lemon (for a fresh twist) Gather these ingredients before you start. They are easy to find at your local market. Fresh ingredients make the dish taste better. You can choose any shape of pasta you like, but I prefer penne or rigatoni for this recipe. The feta cheese adds a creamy texture when baked, while the tomatoes burst with flavor. The garlic and herbs give it that extra kick. Don't forget the lemon zest; it brightens the whole dish! For a full experience, you can check the Full Recipe. - Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). - Take an 8-ounce block of feta cheese and place it in the center of a baking dish. - Surround the cheese with 1 pint of halved cherry tomatoes. - Add 4 minced garlic cloves on top of the cheese and tomatoes. - Drizzle ¼ cup of olive oil over the feta and tomatoes. - Sprinkle 1 teaspoon of dried oregano, ½ teaspoon of red pepper flakes, salt, and pepper to taste on top. - Bake the dish for 25-30 minutes. The cheese should be soft and the tomatoes bursting. - While the feta and tomatoes bake, cook 8 ounces of pasta according to the package instructions. Drain it when done. - After baking, take the dish out of the oven. Use a fork to mash the feta and tomatoes together. - Mix in the cooked pasta, ensuring it combines well with the creamy mixture. - Stir in the zest of 1 lemon and ¼ cup of chopped fresh basil. - Taste and adjust the seasoning if needed. Serve warm for a delightful meal. For the full recipe, be sure to check the details above! Choosing the right pasta shape Pasta shape matters for this dish. I like penne or rigatoni. Their curves hold sauce well. You can use any pasta you enjoy, but these shapes work best. How to achieve the perfect feta consistency Bake the feta until soft but not runny. You want it creamy, not liquid. When you mix it with tomatoes, it should blend smoothly. Adding more spices or herbs Feel free to add your favorite spices. Try thyme, rosemary, or crushed red pepper. They can boost the taste. Fresh herbs like parsley or dill also add great flavor. Incorporating vegetables for variety You can add more veggies to the mix. Spinach, bell peppers, or zucchini work well. Toss them in with the tomatoes. They will cook down and add color and nutrients. Serving suggestions for visual appeal Serve the dish in a large bowl. This makes it look inviting. Add a sprinkle of cheese on top for flair. A drizzle of olive oil can also enhance the look. Garnishing with fresh herbs Finish with fresh herbs like basil or parsley. They add color and freshness. A little lemon zest on top also brightens the dish. It looks great and tastes even better. For a complete guide to making this delicious dish, check out the Full Recipe. {{image_2}} If you need gluten-free options, use gluten-free pasta. Many brands make great choices, like brown rice pasta or quinoa pasta. These can give you the same tasty dish without gluten. For a vegan twist, swap the feta cheese for a plant-based cheese. Look for brands that melt well. You can also use tofu for a protein boost. Just marinate it in lemon juice and herbs for extra flavor. Want to add protein? Chicken and shrimp work well in this dish. Cook them separately and toss them in with the pasta. This adds a hearty touch. You can also try different cheeses. Goat cheese adds a tangy flavor, while mozzarella gives a creamy texture. Experiment and find your favorite cheese that fits your taste. Seasonal vegetables can make this dish even better. In summer, add zucchini or bell peppers. In fall, use roasted butternut squash or Brussels sprouts. Fresh veggies add color and nutrition. Herbs can change the flavor too. Try fresh thyme or parsley for a new twist. You can also use a mix of herbs, depending on what you have. These small changes can make your baked feta pasta special. For the full recipe, check out [Full Recipe]. To keep your Baked Feta Pasta fresh, start by refrigerating leftovers. Place the pasta in an airtight container. Make sure to cool it to room temperature before sealing. This helps prevent moisture buildup. You can also freeze portions for meal prep. Use freezer-safe bags or containers. Divide the pasta into serving sizes. Just remember to label them with the date. When you’re ready to enjoy leftovers, it's best to reheat gently. Use the stove or the microwave. If using a microwave, cover the dish to keep moisture in. Stir the pasta halfway through to heat evenly. Avoid cooking too long, as it can turn the pasta mushy. A splash of water or olive oil can help revive the dish. Baked Feta Pasta can last in the fridge for about 3 to 5 days. Always check for signs of spoilage. Look for any off smells, changes in color, or mold. If you notice any of these, it’s best to discard the dish. Keeping track of how long it’s been stored helps ensure you enjoy it at its best. What can I substitute for feta cheese? You can use goat cheese or ricotta for a similar taste. Cream cheese also works well. Each option gives a nice twist to your dish. Can I use frozen vegetables in this dish? Yes, frozen vegetables are great! Just add them in with the tomatoes. They will cook well in the oven. Remember to adjust cooking time if needed. How do I make Baked Feta Pasta in a one-pot? To make it in one pot, cook the pasta in a large pot with water. Add the feta, tomatoes, and spices directly into the pot. Stir everything together while it cooks. This saves time and cleanup! Could I use roasted garlic instead of fresh? Absolutely! Roasted garlic adds a sweet, deep flavor. Just use about half the amount since it’s stronger. Mix it in with the feta and tomatoes. What are the calorie counts per serving? Each serving has around 400 calories. This can vary based on the pasta and oil you use. Adjust your ingredients to fit your diet. Is this recipe suitable for a low-carb diet? This recipe is not low-carb due to the pasta. For a low-carb option, use zucchini noodles or spaghetti squash instead. They are healthy and delicious alternatives. This Baked Feta Pasta combines fresh ingredients for a flavorful meal. You need simple steps, from baking the feta and tomatoes to mixing in cooked pasta. With tips for storage and variations, you can easily adapt this dish. I hope you feel inspired to try different flavors. Meal prep or inviting friends over can be fun with it. Enjoy your cooking, and remember to add your own twist!](https://cheftaling.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/1438cfca-4f41-4544-a71b-27e4d7a143f1-250x250.webp)
Baked Feta Pasta
Delight your taste buds with this Baked Feta Pasta recipe! This creamy, savory dish combines pasta, baked feta, and juicy cherry tomatoes for a flavor explosion. It's easy to prepare and the perfect weeknight meal. In just 40 minutes, you can create a warm, comforting dinner that everyone will love.