If you’ve been on the lookout for a delightfully creamy, flavorful pasta dish that feels both fancy and effortless, you’re going to adore this Baked Feta Pasta with Cherry Tomatoes Recipe. Picture a warm, bubbling block of feta cheese melting into juicy roasted cherry tomatoes, then tossed with perfectly cooked pasta and fresh basil. It’s a vibrant dish full of sunshine colors, rich textures, and comforting tastes that come together with just a few simple ingredients and minimal hands-on time. This recipe has quickly become a beloved classic, perfect for busy weeknights or impressing guests with something unexpected yet incredibly satisfying.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Getting the ingredients right is the first step to nailing this Baked Feta Pasta with Cherry Tomatoes Recipe. Each component is not only simple but plays a crucial role in balancing the creamy, tangy, and sweet flavors while adding vibrant color and texture.
- Feta cheese: Choose a good quality block for that creamy, tangy base that melts beautifully in the oven.
- Cherry tomatoes: Their juicy sweetness roasts to perfection, creating a natural sauce when combined with feta.
- Olive oil: Adds richness and helps everything bake into a luscious, smooth sauce.
- Garlic: Minced cloves infuse a subtle punch of savory depth.
- Dried oregano: Brings a fragrant Mediterranean touch that complements the feta and tomatoes.
- Salt: Enhances all the natural flavors, but use sparingly as feta is already salty.
- Black pepper: Adds just a hint of warming spice.
- Pasta of choice: Any your family loves works great, from penne to fusilli or spaghetti.
- Fresh basil: A bright, herbal garnish that adds freshness and makes the dish pop.
How to Make Baked Feta Pasta with Cherry Tomatoes Recipe
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare
Start by heating your oven to 400°F (200°C). This ensures everything roasts evenly and the feta block softens just right.
Step 2: Arrange Feta and Tomatoes
Place the block of feta cheese in the center of a baking dish and arrange the cherry tomatoes all around it. This layout lets the tomatoes roast down and mingle flavors as the feta melts.
Step 3: Season and Drizzle
Drizzle the olive oil over the feta and tomatoes, then sprinkle minced garlic, dried oregano, salt, and black pepper evenly. This seasoning blend will perfectly complement the creamy cheese and sweet tomatoes.
Step 4: Bake Until Golden and Soft
Pop the baking dish in the oven for 25 to 30 minutes. Keep an eye out for the feta to become soft and golden, while the tomatoes burst and release their juices to create a luscious sauce.
Step 5: Cook Your Pasta
While the feta and tomatoes roast, bring a pot of salted water to a boil and cook your pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Properly cooked pasta is key for holding the creamy sauce beautifully.
Step 6: Stir the Baked Feta Mixture
Once baked, take the dish out and stir the softened feta and roasted tomatoes together. The mixture will turn into a smooth, creamy sauce with chunks of tangy cheese and sweet tomato bits.
Step 7: Toss Pasta and Garnish
Drain your pasta and add it to the baking dish or combine in a large bowl. Toss everything thoroughly to coat the noodles in that irresistible sauce. Finish with a sprinkle of fresh basil leaves for an extra pop of color and freshness.
How to Serve Baked Feta Pasta with Cherry Tomatoes Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh basil is the classic garnish here, its aromatic leaves adding a bright, herbal lift that balances the richness of the feta. For an extra touch, you could grate some lemon zest or sprinkle red pepper flakes to add warmth and zing.
Side Dishes
This Baked Feta Pasta with Cherry Tomatoes Recipe pairs wonderfully with crisp green salads or roasted vegetables. A simple arugula salad with lemon vinaigrette or some garlic bread would also round out the meal perfectly without stealing the spotlight.
Creative Ways to Present
For a charming presentation, serve the pasta directly from the baking dish at the table so everyone can see the gooey feta and vibrant tomatoes. Alternatively, plate individual portions with a small handful of toasted pine nuts or a drizzle of balsamic reduction for an elevated look and taste.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. The flavors meld even more after resting, making for a delicious next-day meal.
Freezing
While pasta dishes tend to change texture after freezing, you can freeze the baked feta and tomato mixture separately. Freeze in a sealed container for up to one month and thaw overnight before reheating with freshly cooked pasta.
Reheating
Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, stirring occasionally to bring back that smooth creaminess. Adding a splash of olive oil or a small amount of cream can help revive the sauce texture.
FAQs
Can I use other types of cheese instead of feta?
Feta is essential for the signature tangy creaminess of this recipe, but you could experiment with halloumi or goat cheese for a different flavor profile. Keep in mind the texture and melting qualities will differ.
What pasta shape works best for baked feta pasta?
Short, twisty pastas like penne, fusilli, or rigatoni are ideal because they hold the sauce well. But feel free to use whatever you have on hand; the creamy sauce will cling beautifully to most shapes.
Can I add protein to this dish?
Absolutely! Grilled chicken, sautéed shrimp, or crispy pancetta would all be fantastic additions to turn this into a heartier meal.
Is this recipe suitable for vegetarians?
Yes, this Baked Feta Pasta with Cherry Tomatoes Recipe is vegetarian-friendly, containing no meat or fish. Just ensure the feta is made with vegetarian rennet if that’s a concern.
How spicy is this dish?
This recipe is mild and comforting, but you can easily add heat by sprinkling crushed red pepper flakes before baking or adding chili oil at the end for some kick.
Final Thoughts
Trust me, once you try this Baked Feta Pasta with Cherry Tomatoes Recipe, it’ll become a regular in your kitchen rotation. The magic of roasting feta and tomatoes together creates a luscious sauce that feels fancy but comes together so easily. Perfect for busy nights, casual dinners, or when you want to impress with minimal effort. Grab some fresh ingredients, turn up the oven, and get ready to fall in love with one of the most crave-worthy pasta dishes out there.
Print
Baked Feta Pasta with Cherry Tomatoes Recipe
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Mediterranean
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This Baked Feta Pasta Recipe with Cherry Tomatoes is a simple yet flavorful dish that combines creamy baked feta cheese with juicy roasted cherry tomatoes, tossed with perfectly cooked pasta and garnished with fresh basil. It’s an effortless and delicious meal that comes together quickly, perfect for weeknight dinners or casual gatherings.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 block (about 200g) feta cheese
- 2 cups cherry tomatoes
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 tsp dried oregano
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 8 oz pasta of choice (such as penne or fusilli)
- Fresh basil for garnish
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) to prepare for baking the feta and tomatoes.
- Prepare Baking Dish: Place the block of feta cheese in the center of a baking dish and arrange the cherry tomatoes around it.
- Add Seasonings: Drizzle the olive oil over the feta and cherry tomatoes. Sprinkle the minced garlic, dried oregano, salt, and black pepper evenly on top.
- Bake: Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, until the feta cheese is soft, slightly browned, and the tomatoes have burst and softened.
- Cook Pasta: While the feta and tomatoes are baking, cook the pasta according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- Mix Sauce: Remove the baking dish from the oven. Using a spoon or spatula, stir the baked feta and tomatoes together until creamy and well combined.
- Toss Pasta: Add the cooked pasta to the feta and tomato mixture and toss to coat the pasta evenly with the creamy sauce.
- Garnish and Serve: Garnish with fresh basil leaves and serve immediately for a warm, comforting pasta dish.
Notes
- For a spicy kick, add red pepper flakes before baking.
- Use gluten-free pasta to make this recipe gluten-free.
- Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- If you prefer a thinner sauce, add a splash of pasta cooking water when tossing the pasta.
