Baked Feta Pasta With Cherry Tomatoes
Highlighted under: Sugar Studio
I absolutely love making Baked Feta Pasta with Cherry Tomatoes whenever I want a comforting dish that is bursting with flavor. This simple yet delightful recipe combines creamy, savory feta with juicy tomatoes, creating a beautiful sauce that clings to every piece of pasta. Not only is it easy to prepare, but it also packs a punch of freshness with herbs and olive oil. Perfect for those busy weeknights or a cozy weekend dinner, I guarantee it will quickly become a family favorite!
When I first tried Baked Feta Pasta with Cherry Tomatoes, I was astonished by how such simple ingredients could create a dish so delicious. The key lies in roasting the feta and tomatoes together; it allows the flavors to intermingle beautifully.
I like to add a few cloves of garlic to the mix, which infuses the dish with an aromatic richness. Once it's all baked and mixed with pasta, the creamy feta transforms into a dreamy sauce that makes every bite irresistible!
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- Rich, creamy texture of baked feta
- Bursting with sweet and tangy flavors from roasted tomatoes
- Quick prep and easy cleanup make it ideal for busy days
Understanding the Ingredients
Choosing the right pasta for Baked Feta Pasta is key to achieving the perfect texture. I recommend using penne or fusilli as their shapes trap the creamy sauce beautifully, allowing you to enjoy every flavorful bite. Additionally, the cooking time for these pastas usually aligns well with the baking time for the feta and tomatoes, ensuring everything is ready simultaneously.
The block of feta cheese is the star of this dish. When baked, it transforms from a crumbly texture into a luscious, creamy consistency that melds beautifully with the roasted tomatoes. If you're looking for a lower-fat option, a reduced-fat feta can be substituted, but the creaminess may be slightly compromised. Pairing it with high-quality olive oil elevates the overall flavor, adding a rich, savory note.
Baking to Perfection
To achieve the best roasting results, it’s important to monitor the tomatoes as they bake. You should look for them to become blistered and start releasing their juices, which usually takes around 30 minutes at 400°F (200°C). If they start to char too quickly, consider covering the baking dish loosely with aluminum foil to prevent over-browning while still allowing for rich caramelization.
Once the tomatoes and feta are baked, don't skip the step of mashing them together. This process not only transforms the feta into a smooth sauce but also helps to incorporate all the roasted garlic and herb flavors into the pasta. I recommend using a fork for this; it’s perfect for breaking down the ingredients while ensuring everything is well-mixed.
Ingredients
Gather the following ingredients to make this delicious Baked Feta Pasta:
Ingredients
- 200g pasta (penne or fusilli)
- 200g block of feta cheese
- 500g cherry tomatoes
- 4 cloves garlic, peeled
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- Salt, to taste
- Fresh basil, for serving
Make sure to have everything prepped before starting to ensure a smooth cooking process!
Instructions
Follow these steps to create your delicious Baked Feta Pasta:
Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
Prepare the Baking Dish
In a baking dish, combine the cherry tomatoes, garlic, oregano, olive oil, and a sprinkle of salt. Place the block of feta cheese in the center.
Bake
Bake in the preheated oven for about 30 minutes, or until the tomatoes are blistered and the feta is soft.
Cook the Pasta
While the cheese and tomatoes are baking, cook the pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
Combine and Serve
Once baked, mash the feta and tomatoes together with a fork to create a creamy sauce. Add the cooked pasta to the dish and mix well. Garnish with fresh basil.
Serve immediately for the best flavor and texture.
Pro Tips
- For an extra kick, consider adding chili flakes to the baking dish for some heat. You can also experiment with different herbs like thyme or rosemary!
Make-Ahead and Storage
This dish is wonderful for meal prepping. You can prepare the feta and tomato mixture ahead of time and store it in the fridge for up to two days. Just be sure to reheat it until bubbly before mixing with freshly cooked pasta. If you have leftovers, they can be stored in an airtight container for up to three days in the refrigerator. Just give it a quick warm-up on the stove or in the microwave before serving.
If you're looking to freeze this dish, I recommend freezing the feta and tomato mixture separately from the pasta. The mixture can be frozen for about a month; simply thaw it in the fridge overnight before reheating. Cook fresh pasta when you're ready to serve, to maintain its ideal texture.
Serving Suggestions and Variations
For an extra layer of flavor, consider adding some red pepper flakes before baking for a spicy kick, or a splash of balsamic vinegar for sweetness. You can also toss in some spinach or arugula right before serving for added freshness and nutrition. Pair your baked feta pasta with a simple side salad dressed with lemon vinaigrette to balance the richness of the dish.
If you want to add protein, grilled chicken or shrimp can be a delightful addition. Simply season your protein of choice and cook it alongside the pasta, or toss it into the final dish for a complete meal. This versatility ensures there’s always a way to customize your Baked Feta Pasta, making it a dish you'll never grow tired of.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I use a different type of cheese?
Yes, you can try using goat cheese or ricotta for a different flavor profile.
→ Can I make this dish ahead of time?
You can prep the ingredients ahead of time and bake it just before serving to enjoy the fresh flavors.
→ Is there a vegetarian option for this recipe?
Yes, the dish is already vegetarian as long as you use a plant-based feta cheese.
→ What can I serve with this pasta?
A light salad or garlic bread pairs beautifully with this creamy pasta dish.
Baked Feta Pasta With Cherry Tomatoes
I absolutely love making Baked Feta Pasta with Cherry Tomatoes whenever I want a comforting dish that is bursting with flavor. This simple yet delightful recipe combines creamy, savory feta with juicy tomatoes, creating a beautiful sauce that clings to every piece of pasta. Not only is it easy to prepare, but it also packs a punch of freshness with herbs and olive oil. Perfect for those busy weeknights or a cozy weekend dinner, I guarantee it will quickly become a family favorite!
What You'll Need
Ingredients
- 200g pasta (penne or fusilli)
- 200g block of feta cheese
- 500g cherry tomatoes
- 4 cloves garlic, peeled
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- Salt, to taste
- Fresh basil, for serving
How-To Steps
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
In a baking dish, combine the cherry tomatoes, garlic, oregano, olive oil, and a sprinkle of salt. Place the block of feta cheese in the center.
Bake in the preheated oven for about 30 minutes, or until the tomatoes are blistered and the feta is soft.
While the cheese and tomatoes are baking, cook the pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
Once baked, mash the feta and tomatoes together with a fork to create a creamy sauce. Add the cooked pasta to the dish and mix well. Garnish with fresh basil.
Extra Tips
- For an extra kick, consider adding chili flakes to the baking dish for some heat. You can also experiment with different herbs like thyme or rosemary!
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 380 kcal
- Total Fat: 26g
- Saturated Fat: 15g
- Cholesterol: 195mg
- Sodium: 85mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 32g
- Dietary Fiber: 3g
- Sugars: 24g
- Protein: 6g