The Baked Feta Pasta Recipe has taken the internet by storm for good reason—it’s a perfect union of creamy, tangy feta cheese and juicy roasted tomatoes, all tossed with al dente pasta that absorbs every bit of that luscious sauce. This dish is wonderfully simple yet bursting with flavor, making it an ideal go-to dinner for busy weeknights or impressive enough for sharing with friends. Once you get a taste of this warm, comforting Mediterranean-inspired meal, it’s hard not to fall in love with its bright, fresh ingredients and easy preparation.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Getting started with the Baked Feta Pasta Recipe means gathering some incredibly straightforward ingredients, each selected to bring vibrant flavors and textures to the plate. These essentials work beautifully together to create a balanced harmony of creamy, tangy, savory, and fresh.

Feta Cheese (8 oz block): The star of the dish providing a creamy, tangy richness that melts just right when baked.
Cherry or Grape Tomatoes (2 pints): Adds sweetness and juiciness that bursts open during baking creating a fresh sauce.
Olive Oil (3 tablespoons): Enhances flavor while helping roast the ingredients evenly to develop subtle caramelization.
Minced Garlic (3 cloves): Introduces a fragrant, savory depth that perfectly complements the tomatoes and feta.
Crushed Red Pepper Flakes (½ teaspoon, optional): Adds a gentle heat that lifts the dish without overpowering.
Salt and Black Pepper: Essential seasonings to balance and brighten the overall flavor.
Pasta (10 oz, penne or rotini recommended): Provides a hearty base to soak up the luscious baked feta sauce.
Fresh Basil Leaves (½ cup, chopped): Brings in a fresh, aromatic note that lightens and elevates every bite.
Grated Parmesan Cheese (optional): Perfect for sprinkling on top to add a nutty, salty finish.

How to Make Baked Feta Pasta Recipe

Step 1: Prepare and Arrange the Ingredients

Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). Place the block of feta cheese right in the center of a baking dish and surround it with the cherry tomatoes. This positioning allows the cheese to melt beautifully and mingle with the roasting tomatoes.

Step 2: Add Flavors and Oil

Drizzle all the olive oil evenly over the cheese and tomatoes. Then sprinkle the minced garlic, crushed red pepper flakes if you like a little kick, along with salt and black pepper for seasoning. Gently toss the tomatoes to coat them, making sure the feta block stays at the center so it bakes perfectly.

Step 3: Bake Until Perfect

Pop your baking dish into the oven and let it bake for 30 to 35 minutes. You’ll know it’s done when the tomatoes have burst open, releasing their juices, and the feta softens and turns a gorgeous golden shade on top. This slow roasting is key to creating that irresistible, creamy sauce.

Step 4: Cook the Pasta

While your feta and tomatoes are baking, cook your pasta in salted boiling water according to the package instructions. Be sure to save half a cup of the pasta water before draining—this starchy water is a secret weapon to help loosen and bind your sauce later.

Step 5: Combine Everything

Once out of the oven, stir the softened feta and roasted tomatoes together in the dish to form your sauce. Add the cooked pasta and toss it all to coat thoroughly, adding reserved pasta water a little at a time to reach your desired creamy consistency. Finally, stir in the fresh chopped basil for a fragrant, bright finish.

How to Serve Baked Feta Pasta Recipe

Garnishes

Simple garnishes like extra fresh basil leaves or a sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese add repeated bursts of flavor and an inviting look to your plated pasta. You can also add a little drizzle of high-quality olive oil or a few cracked black peppercorns for that extra touch of charm.

Side Dishes

This dish shines wonderfully on its own, but if you want to round out your meal, a crisp green salad with lemon vinaigrette or garlic bread are fantastic choices. Both sides complement the rich, creamy pasta without stealing the spotlight from this star recipe.

Creative Ways to Present

Serve this baked feta pasta straight from the baking dish to the table for a cozy, family-style vibe that encourages sharing. If you’re hosting, consider layering the pasta in individual bowls, topped with some fresh herbs and a wedge of lemon to squeeze over. It’s as much a treat for the eyes as it is for the taste buds!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Keep any leftover baked feta pasta in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. The flavors actually deepen overnight, making it a perfect next-day lunch or dinner option.

Freezing

While the texture is best fresh, you can freeze leftovers in a sealed container for up to one month. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating, but keep in mind the pasta might be a bit softer after freezing.

Reheating

Warm leftovers gently in a skillet over medium-low heat, stirring frequently. Add a splash of water or broth to refresh the creamy sauce if it’s too thick. Microwaving works too, but stirring halfway through helps maintain texture and heat evenly.

FAQs

Can I use crumbled feta instead of a block?

Absolutely! If you don’t have a block of feta, mound crumbled feta in the center of your baking dish before roasting. It will melt and blend with the tomatoes just as deliciously, though the presentation will be a little different.

What pasta shape works best for Baked Feta Pasta Recipe?

Penne, rotini, or any short, ridged pasta varieties are ideal as they hold onto the creamy sauce nicely. However, feel free to use your favorite pasta shape—you can’t go wrong!

Can I add protein to this dish?

Yes! Adding cooked chicken, shrimp, or even chickpeas can turn this pasta into a heartier meal. Stir them in just before serving to maintain the perfect texture and flavor balance.

Is this recipe suitable for vegetarians?

Definitely. This baked feta pasta recipe is vegetarian-friendly, containing no meat or animal-derived ingredients apart from dairy. It’s a fantastic option for a satisfying meatless meal.

How spicy is the optional crushed red pepper?

The red pepper flakes add a gentle warmth that enhances but does not dominate the dish. You can easily adjust the amount or leave it out to keep your pasta mild and mellow.

Final Thoughts

This Baked Feta Pasta Recipe is a delightful celebration of simple ingredients that come together in a magical way to create an unforgettable meal. It’s fuss-free, packed with fresh flavors, and perfect for any occasion. I can’t wait for you to try it and make it your own—once you do, it’ll surely become a cherished staple in your kitchen too!