If you’re looking for a delicious and effortless meal that combines creamy, tangy feta with the rich, comforting flavors of pasta, look no further than Baked Feta Pasta. This viral sensation has taken the culinary world by storm, and for good reason! Not only is it incredibly easy to make, but it also results in a dish that’s both visually stunning and mouthwateringly tasty. In this article, we’ll walk you through the recipe step-by-step, offer tips for perfecting the dish, and explore why this pasta bake has become a favorite among home cooks everywhere.
Ingredients
To make Baked Feta Pasta, you’ll need the following ingredients:
- Feta Cheese: 200 grams (approximately 7 ounces)
- Cherry Tomatoes: 2 cups (about 300 grams)
- Olive Oil: 1/4 cup
- Garlic: 3 cloves, minced
- Dried Oregano: 1 teaspoon
- Dried Basil: 1 teaspoon
- Salt: 1/2 teaspoon (or to taste)
- Black Pepper: 1/4 teaspoon (or to taste)
- Red Pepper Flakes: 1/4 teaspoon (optional, for a bit of heat)
- Pasta: 250 grams (about 9 ounces) – use your favorite shape, such as penne, fusilli, or farfalle
- Fresh Basil: For garnish
- Grated Parmesan Cheese: 1/4 cup (optional, for extra flavor)
Instructions
1. Preheat Your Oven
Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). This high temperature is essential for roasting the cherry tomatoes and baking the feta cheese to perfection.
2. Prepare the Baking Dish
Take a baking dish that’s large enough to accommodate all the ingredients. A 9×13-inch dish works well for this recipe. Drizzle a tablespoon of olive oil into the dish to coat the bottom. This helps prevent sticking and adds extra flavor.
3. Assemble the Ingredients
Place the feta cheese block in the center of the baking dish. Arrange the cherry tomatoes around the feta. Drizzle the remaining olive oil over the tomatoes and feta. Sprinkle the minced garlic, dried oregano, dried basil, salt, and black pepper over the top. If you like a bit of spice, add the red pepper flakes.
4. Bake
Put the dish in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the tomatoes have burst and the feta cheese is golden and slightly melted. The feta should be soft and spreadable, and the tomatoes should have released their juices, creating a delicious sauce.
5. Cook the Pasta
While the feta and tomatoes are baking, cook your pasta according to the package instructions until it’s al dente. Drain and set aside. You want the pasta to retain a bit of firmness since it will be mixed with the hot feta-tomato sauce later.
6. Combine Pasta and Sauce
Once the feta and tomatoes are done baking, remove the dish from the oven. Use a fork or spoon to mash the feta cheese and burst tomatoes together, creating a creamy sauce. Stir to combine the feta and tomato juices until smooth.
Add the cooked pasta to the baking dish and toss everything together until the pasta is well coated with the sauce. You may need to gently fold the pasta in to ensure even coverage.
7. Add Finishing Touches
If you like, sprinkle some grated Parmesan cheese over the top for an extra layer of flavor. Garnish with fresh basil leaves for a burst of color and freshness. Serve immediately while hot and enjoy!
Tips for Perfect Baked Feta Pasta
- Choosing the Right Feta: For the best results, use a block of feta cheese rather than crumbled feta. The block melts better and creates a creamier sauce.
- Tomato Varieties: Cherry or grape tomatoes work best for this recipe because they burst and caramelize beautifully. However, you can use other types of tomatoes if necessary; just chop them into smaller pieces.
- Pasta Shapes: Feel free to experiment with different pasta shapes. Short shapes like penne or fusilli hold the sauce well, but long shapes like spaghetti or fettuccine can also be used.
- Making it Creamier: For an even creamier sauce, you can add a splash of cream or milk after mixing the pasta with the feta-tomato sauce.
- Vegetable Add-ins: You can customize this recipe by adding vegetables such as spinach, bell peppers, or olives. Just toss them in with the tomatoes before baking.
- Storing Leftovers: Baked Feta Pasta can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave until heated through.
Why Baked Feta Pasta is a Must-Try
Baked Feta Pasta has quickly become a favorite for its simplicity and flavor. Here are a few reasons why you should give it a try:
- Minimal Effort: With just a few ingredients and minimal prep time, this dish is perfect for busy weeknights or casual gatherings.
- Rich and Creamy: The combination of melted feta cheese and juicy tomatoes creates a rich, creamy sauce that clings beautifully to the pasta.
- Versatile: You can easily adapt the recipe to suit your preferences or dietary needs. Try it with gluten-free pasta, vegan feta, or different herbs and spices.
Variations to Try
- Mediterranean Twist: Add Kalamata olives, artichoke hearts, and roasted red peppers to give the dish a Mediterranean flair.
- Meaty Option: Incorporate cooked chicken, sausage, or bacon for a heartier meal.
- Herb-Infused: Experiment with different herbs like thyme, rosemary, or parsley for a unique flavor profile.
Conclusion
Baked Feta Pasta is a versatile and delicious dish that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or just looking for a comforting meal for yourself, this recipe delivers on taste and ease. With its creamy feta cheese sauce and juicy roasted tomatoes, it’s sure to become a new favorite in your kitchen. So preheat your oven, gather your ingredients, and enjoy the delightful flavors of this baked pasta dish!