Introduction:
If you’re looking for a dish that’s both simple and indulgent, this Baked Feta Pasta is the answer! This viral recipe became an instant hit for a reason—it’s easy, delicious, and full of rich, creamy flavors. With just a few simple ingredients like feta cheese, cherry tomatoes, and pasta, you’ll create a heavenly dish that’s sure to wow your taste buds. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a cozy weekend meal, this creamy, cheesy pasta will become a favorite in your household.
Ingredients:
- 200g (7oz) pasta (penne, fusilli, or your favorite pasta)
- 200g (7oz) block of feta cheese
- 300g (10oz) cherry tomatoes, halved
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Fresh basil or parsley for garnish
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional, for extra cheesiness)
Instructions:
- Preheat and Prepare:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- In a large baking dish, place the block of feta cheese in the center. Surround it with the halved cherry tomatoes.
- Drizzle the olive oil over the feta cheese and tomatoes, ensuring everything is coated evenly. Sprinkle the dried oregano, minced garlic, salt, and pepper over the ingredients.
- Bake the Feta:
- Place the baking dish in the oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the feta cheese is golden and soft, and the tomatoes have burst and released their juices.
- Halfway through the baking process, you can gently stir the tomatoes around the feta to ensure even cooking.
- Cook the Pasta:
- While the feta is baking, cook your pasta according to the package instructions in salted water. Drain the pasta, reserving about 1/4 cup of pasta water.
- Combine and Toss:
- Once the feta and tomatoes are out of the oven, use a fork to mash the feta cheese and combine it with the tomatoes, creating a creamy sauce.
- Add the cooked pasta to the baking dish with the feta mixture, and toss everything together. If the sauce is too thick, add a bit of the reserved pasta water to loosen it up and achieve the desired creaminess.
- Serve:
- Garnish with fresh basil or parsley, and sprinkle Parmesan cheese on top if desired.
- Serve hot and enjoy the creamy, cheesy goodness!
Tips:
- For extra flavor: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes before baking for a bit of heat.
- Veggie boost: Add sautéed spinach or roasted bell peppers to the mix for extra veggies.
- Make it vegan: Swap the feta for a plant-based feta cheese for a dairy-free version.
- Add protein: Grilled chicken, shrimp, or roasted chickpeas can be added to turn this into a full meal.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe:
This Baked Feta Pasta is the ultimate comfort food with a Mediterranean twist. It’s creamy, cheesy, and bursting with fresh flavors. Plus, it’s incredibly easy to make and requires minimal ingredients, making it perfect for busy nights or when you’re craving something comforting but quick. Once you try this dish, it’s sure to become a regular on your dinner table!