why make this recipe
Baked Feta Pasta has become a trending dish because it’s simple, delicious, and comforting. The creamy feta cheese paired with sweet burst tomatoes creates a rich sauce that clings to the pasta. It’s a quick meal option that requires minimal prep and is perfect for any occasion, from busy weeknights to special gatherings. Plus, it’s easy to customize based on personal taste or what you have on hand.
how to make Baked Feta Pasta
Ingredients:
- 2 ½ cups grape tomatoes, washed and dried
- 1 8 oz brick 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 and drained
Directions:
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Add the washed and dried grape tomatoes to a medium-sized baking dish, spreading them evenly.
- Place the brick of feta cheese in the center of the tomatoes.
- Drizzle 3 tablespoons of olive oil over the tomatoes and cheese.
- Sprinkle Italian seasoning and salt generously over both the cheese and tomatoes.
- Drizzle the remaining 2 tablespoons of olive oil over the feta.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes, until the tomatoes burst and the cheese softens.
- Remove from the oven and stir the melted cheese and tomatoes together until well combined.
- Add the chopped fresh basil and mix well.
- Finally, fold in the cooked bow tie pasta until everything is saucy and well incorporated. Serve hot and enjoy!
how to serve Baked Feta Pasta
Baked Feta Pasta is best served warm, right out of the oven. You can dish it up in bowls and sprinkle a bit more fresh basil on top for color. It goes well with a side salad or some crusty bread. The flavors mix together beautifully, making each bite a perfect balance of creamy, tangy, and sweet.
how to store Baked Feta Pasta
If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Baked Feta Pasta can last for about 3-4 days when stored properly. To reheat, simply warm it in the microwave or on the stovetop until heated through. You may want to add a splash of olive oil or a bit of water while reheating to keep it moist.
tips to make Baked Feta Pasta
- Use good-quality feta cheese for the best flavor.
- Feel free to add extra vegetables like spinach or bell peppers for added nutrition.
- Test and adjust the seasoning to suit your taste; some people enjoy more salt or herbs.
- For a little heat, sprinkle some red pepper flakes before baking.
variation
You can easily customize Baked Feta Pasta by using different types of pasta or adding protein like grilled chicken or shrimp. You might also try other herbs like thyme or parsley for a different flavor.
FAQs
1. Can I use another type of cheese instead of feta?
Yes, you can substitute feta with goat cheese or even ricotta, but the flavor will change a bit.
2. Is it possible to make this recipe vegan?
For a vegan version, you can use a plant-based feta alternative and ensure your pasta is egg-free.
3. Can I use different types of tomatoes?
Yes, while grape tomatoes are recommended, you can use cherry tomatoes or sliced larger tomatoes. Just adjust the baking time as needed.
Baked Feta Pasta
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 2 cups grape tomatoes, washed and dried
- 1 8 oz brick of feta cheese Use good-quality feta for the best flavor.
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- ½ teaspoon salt Adjust to taste.
- 5 tablespoons olive oil 3 tablespoons for drizzling, 2 tablespoons for the remaining topping.
- ¼ cup chopped fresh basil Add more for garnishing, if desired.
- 12 oz bow tie pasta, cooked and drained Any pasta type can be used.
Instructions
Preparation
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Add the washed and dried grape tomatoes to a medium-sized baking dish, spreading them evenly.
- Place the brick of feta cheese in the center of the tomatoes.
- Drizzle 3 tablespoons of olive oil over the tomatoes and cheese.
- Sprinkle Italian seasoning and salt generously over both the cheese and tomatoes.
- Drizzle the remaining 2 tablespoons of olive oil over the feta.
Baking
- Bake in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes, until the tomatoes burst and the cheese softens.
- Remove from the oven and stir the melted cheese and tomatoes together until well combined.
- Add the chopped fresh basil and mix well.
- Fold in the cooked bow tie pasta until everything is saucy and well incorporated.
- Serve hot and enjoy!