BAKED FETA PASTA RECIPE

If you’re looking for a dish that’s effortlessly elegant and unbelievably delicious, look no further than this BAKED FETA PASTA RECIPE. From the moment you pop that creamy feta and juicy tomatoes into the oven, your kitchen will be filled with mouthwatering aromas that will have everyone impatiently circling the table. The beauty of this recipe lies in its ease and its bold, Mediterranean-inspired flavors—the briny, melty cheese mingling with bursts of sweet roasted tomatoes, all tossed with bouncy bow tie pasta and fresh basil. Whether you’re cooking for a crowd or just indulging on a weeknight, this is one of those pasta dishes you’ll crave again and again.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The true magic of this BAKED FETA PASTA RECIPE comes from simple ingredients—each one pulling its weight to create a harmonious and vibrant bite. Don’t be tempted to swap or skip; every element adds its own special flair, from color to creaminess to fresh, herby lift!

• Grape tomatoes: Their natural sweetness caramelizes beautifully in the oven and provides juicy bursts of flavor in every forkful.
• Feta cheese (8 oz brick): Go for a whole block of good-quality feta—this centerpiece turns perfectly creamy and tangy as it bakes.
• Italian seasoning: A classic blend that brings out the Mediterranean roots of this dish, infusing everything with aromatic herbs.
• Salt: Just a touch to heighten all those wonderful flavors without overpowering the feta’s natural saltiness.
• Olive oil: Use a fruity, good olive oil to both roast the ingredients and add that signature richness to the final sauce.
• Fresh basil: Chopped basil gives the final pasta a pop of color and a garden-fresh finish that’s irresistible.
• Bow tie pasta (farfalle): Their fun shape and ridges capture the creamy sauce perfectly—feel free to swap with another short pasta in a pinch.

How to Make BAKED FETA PASTA RECIPE

Step 1: Prepare and Arrange the Ingredients

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F, giving yourself a head start on that rich, roasted aroma that’s about to fill your kitchen. Scatter all those plump grape tomatoes into a baking dish, then nestle the block of feta right in the center. The tomatoes will burst and release their juices, surrounding the feta as it melts into a dreamy sauce base.

Step 2: Drizzle and Season

Generously drizzle three tablespoons of olive oil over the tomatoes and feta. Sprinkle Italian seasoning and a light shake of salt all over. This symphony of herbs and oil is what transforms the dish, coaxing out every ounce of flavor as it roasts. Finish with two more tablespoons of olive oil poured over the cheese for the silkiest sauce possible.

Step 3: Bake It to Perfection

Slide the dish into your preheated oven and bake for 30 to 35 minutes. You’ll know it’s ready when the tomatoes have started to pop and caramelize, and the feta has become soft and melty. It should almost look a little golden on top—trust your nose and eyes here!

Step 4: Stir It All Together

Fresh from the oven, use a spoon or spatula to stir the feta and tomatoes together right in the baking dish. The cheese will turn luxuriously creamy, mixing with the tomato juices and infused olive oil to create an instant sauce. Toss in the chopped fresh basil now so it wilts ever-so-slightly from the residual heat.

Step 5: Add the Pasta and Serve

Dump in your freshly drained, still-steaming bow tie pasta and toss everything together until each piece is coated in the herby, cheesy tomato sauce. Serve hot, preferably with a sprinkle more fresh basil on top, and watch faces light up at first bite!

How to Serve BAKED FETA PASTA RECIPE

Garnishes

This dish loves a finishing flourish! Try sprinkling more fresh basil on top before serving. For an extra punch, a handful of toasted pine nuts or a dusting of cracked black pepper adds depth and a little crunch to every bite. If you’ve got a lemon handy, a quick zest over the finished bowls brightens everything right up.

Side Dishes

Pair this BAKED FETA PASTA RECIPE with a simple green salad tossed in a lemony vinaigrette for fresh contrast. Fresh bread (think crusty sourdough or homemade focaccia) is also a great addition, perfect for mopping up that cheesy tomato sauce. If you’d like something heartier, roasted vegetables or grilled chicken on the side make a wonderful meal.

Creative Ways to Present

Take this dish to the next level by serving it family-style in the same baking dish for rustic charm. Or, scoop individual portions into shallow bowls and top each one with a dramatic sprig of basil. You could also swirl the pasta onto a platter, drizzle with extra olive oil, and nestle in extra roasted tomatoes for a truly eye-catching spread.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you find yourself with leftovers, transfer them promptly to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to three days. The flavors actually meld and deepen overnight, making your next-day lunch just as exciting as the first go-round!

Freezing

While the creamy texture of feta can change after freezing, you can freeze leftover BAKED FETA PASTA RECIPE in individual portions for up to a month. Just be sure to thaw it overnight in the fridge before reheating for the best texture.

Reheating

Reheat your pasta gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of water or milk to loosen the sauce if needed. Stir occasionally to keep everything creamy—avoid high heat so the feta stays luscious and doesn’t become grainy.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of pasta?

Absolutely! Any short pasta with nooks and crannies—like penne, rigatoni, or rotini—will do a great job capturing that creamy feta-tomato sauce. Choose your favorite or whatever you have on hand!

What if I can’t find a block of feta?

If a whole block isn’t available, you can use crumbled feta packed in brine. Just pile it in the center as you would the block and continue the BAKED FETA PASTA RECIPE as directed. It may melt a bit more quickly, so keep an eye on it in the oven.

Is it possible to make this recipe vegan?

Yes! Swap the feta for a plant-based feta alternative and make sure your pasta is egg-free. There are many great vegan feta brands that will achieve a similarly creamy, tangy result.

Can I add protein to this dish?

Certainly! Grilled chicken, shrimp, or even sautéed chickpeas make excellent additions. Simply add your choice of protein along with the pasta during the final toss.

What else can I add for extra flavor?

Feel free to toss in roasted garlic cloves, sliced olives, or sun-dried tomatoes for a deeper Mediterranean vibe. A pinch of crushed red pepper flakes adds some gentle heat, too!

Final Thoughts

This BAKED FETA PASTA RECIPE is pure weeknight magic—simple, crave-worthy, and the kind of dish that brings people together. Give it a try and let this vibrant, cheesy, and tomato-packed pasta light up your next meal. I have a feeling it’ll become one of your most-requested favorites!

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