If you are looking for an effortless yet irresistibly flavorful dish to brighten up your dinner table, this Baked Feta Pasta with Cherry Tomatoes and Garlic Recipe is an absolute game changer. It’s a beautiful blend of creamy, tangy feta cheese with sweet, juicy cherry tomatoes and aromatic garlic, all roasted together to perfection before being tossed with perfectly cooked pasta. This dish is not only a feast for the eyes but also a symphony of tastes and textures that feels both fresh and comforting. Whether you’re cooking for family or friends, this baked feta pasta is guaranteed to get everyone asking for seconds and the recipe.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity—each ingredient is very basic but essential, playing a crucial role in building the dish’s wonderful flavor, texture, and vibrant color. From the smooth feta to the burst of cherry tomatoes, every component works harmoniously to make this baked feta pasta unforgettable.
- 8 oz penne or fusilli pasta: Choose a shape that holds sauce well to make every bite flavorful.
- 8 oz block feta cheese: This creamy and tangy cheese softens beautifully when baked, creating a luscious sauce.
- 2 cups cherry tomatoes (1 pint): These will burst and release natural sweetness, balancing the feta’s tang.
- 3 tbsp extra virgin olive oil: Adds smooth richness and helps roast the garlic and tomatoes evenly.
- 4 cloves garlic, minced: Infuses the dish with a fresh and pungent aroma that elevates the flavors.
- 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes: Brings a gentle heat that complements the creamy cheese perfectly.
- Salt and pepper to taste: Essential seasonings to enhance all the natural flavors.
How to Make Baked Feta Pasta with Cherry Tomatoes and Garlic Recipe
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare the Baking Dish
Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). Lightly spray a baking dish with nonstick cooking spray to keep everything from sticking and ensure easy cleanup. This prep sets the stage for roasting the key ingredients evenly and caramelizing the cherry tomatoes to flavorful goodness.
Step 2: Combine Ingredients in the Baking Dish
Now, toss together the cherry tomatoes, crumbled feta cheese, minced garlic, olive oil, red pepper flakes, salt, and pepper directly in the baking dish. Mixing all these at once allows the flavors to mingle and promises a marinade-like effect even before roasting starts.
Step 3: Roast Until Burst and Soft
Place the baking dish in the oven and roast for 25-30 minutes, or until the tomatoes burst and the feta becomes soft and melty. This roasting step is where the magic happens: the tomatoes release their juices, which combine with the melting feta to create a creamy, tangy sauce.
Step 4: Cook the Pasta
While your tomatoes and feta roast, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the penne or fusilli according to package instructions until al dente. This ensures a perfect bite that will soak up the luscious baked feta sauce without turning mushy.
Step 5: Combine Pasta and Roasted Mixture
Once the feta and tomato mixture is out of the oven, immediately add the drained pasta to the baking dish. Toss everything together thoroughly so that every piece of pasta is coated with the rich, creamy sauce bursting with garlicky tomato flavor.
Step 6: Serve Warm and Enjoy
Your Baked Feta Pasta with Cherry Tomatoes and Garlic Recipe is now ready to be plated. Serve it immediately for the best texture and vibrant flavor, and prepare for delicious compliments flying your way!
How to Serve Baked Feta Pasta with Cherry Tomatoes and Garlic Recipe
Garnishes
A little fresh basil sprinkled on top adds a pop of color and a sweet herbal note that balances the dish beautifully. You can also scatter some cracked black pepper or a drizzle of extra virgin olive oil for extra shine and smoothness.
Side Dishes
This pasta stands out as a main event, but pairing it with a simple green salad or steamed vegetables adds freshness and crunch. Garlic bread or a crusty baguette is another excellent choice to soak up any leftover sauce on the plate.
Creative Ways to Present
For an elevated look, try serving this baked feta pasta family-style straight from the baking dish, letting everyone help themselves. Alternatively, twirl generous portions onto individual plates and garnish with fresh herbs and red pepper flakes for a colorful, restaurant-worthy presentation at home.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Simply place any leftovers in an airtight container and refrigerate. This baked feta pasta keeps well for up to 3 days, maintaining its creamy texture and vibrant tomato flavor.
Freezing
While this recipe is best enjoyed fresh, you can freeze leftovers in a freezer-safe container for up to 1 month. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating for best results.
Reheating
Reheat gently in a microwave or on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of water or olive oil to loosen the sauce if it has thickened. Avoid high heat to preserve the creamy texture of the baked feta sauce.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of pasta for this recipe?
Absolutely! While penne or fusilli are perfect for holding the sauce, you can use whatever pasta you prefer, such as rigatoni, farfalle, or even spaghetti. Just be sure to cook it al dente so it mixes well with the sauce.
Is it necessary to roast the feta and tomatoes together?
Yes, roasting them together is key to developing the unique creamy texture and deep, mellow flavor that defines this baked feta pasta. The roasting allows the tomatoes to burst and the feta to soften into a luscious sauce.
How spicy is the dish with red pepper flakes?
The red pepper flakes add a subtle warmth without overpowering the dish. If you prefer milder flavors, reduce or omit the flakes altogether; the pasta will still be delicious and flavorful.
Can I make this recipe vegan or dairy-free?
You can swap the feta for a vegan cheese alternative or use tofu marinated in lemon and herbs. Keep in mind that traditional feta cheese gives a tangy creaminess that is central to this recipe’s character.
What are some good herbs to add with the garnishes?
Fresh basil is classic and complements the tomatoes perfectly. You can also experiment with oregano, thyme, or parsley for different herbal accents that brighten the dish.
Final Thoughts
There is something truly special about the Baked Feta Pasta with Cherry Tomatoes and Garlic Recipe that makes it an instant classic in my kitchen. It’s easy, impressive, and filled with flavors that feel both fresh and indulgent. Whether it’s a weeknight dinner or a relaxing weekend meal, this recipe promises smiles all around. I encourage you to give it a try—once you make it, it’s bound to become a favorite and a go-to in your culinary rotation!
Print
Baked Feta Pasta with Cherry Tomatoes and Garlic Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Mediterranean
Description
A simple and delicious baked feta pasta recipe that combines roasted cherry tomatoes and creamy feta cheese with al dente penne or fusilli pasta. This flavorful dish is enhanced with garlic, olive oil, and a hint of red pepper flakes, making it a perfect weeknight dinner ready in just 40 minutes.
Ingredients
Pasta
- 8 oz penne or fusilli pasta
Roasted Tomato-Feta Mixture
- 8 oz block feta cheese
- 2 cups cherry tomatoes (1 pint)
- 3 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and lightly spray a baking dish with nonstick cooking spray to prevent sticking.
- Combine Ingredients: In the prepared baking dish, add cherry tomatoes, the block of feta cheese crumbled, minced garlic, olive oil, red pepper flakes, salt, and pepper. Mix everything gently to combine the flavors.
- Roast Mixture: Place the baking dish in the oven and roast for 25-30 minutes until the cherry tomatoes burst open and the feta softens to a creamy texture.
- Cook Pasta: While the tomato and feta are roasting, cook the pasta in salted boiling water according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain thoroughly and set aside.
- Combine Pasta and Roasted Mixture: After roasting, remove the baking dish from the oven and gently mix the softened tomato-feta mixture with the cooked pasta, tossing well to coat all the pasta evenly.
- Serve: Serve the pasta hot immediately, optionally garnished with fresh basil leaves for added freshness and flavor.
Notes
- Use good quality cherry tomatoes for the best flavor.
- For a spicier kick, increase the red pepper flakes as desired.
- Garnish with fresh basil, parsley, or oregano to enhance the dish.
- Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
- Ensure pasta is drained well to avoid a watery dish.
