Baked Feta Pasta Recipe

Let’s be honest, when a recipe goes viral on TikTok, skepticism is natural. Endless scrolling often leads to fleeting trends, recipes that look amazing but fall flat in reality. However, the Baked Feta Pasta, originating from Finnish food blogger Jenni Häyrinen of Liemessä blog, is a delightful exception. Intrigued by the online buzz and countless mouthwatering videos, I decided to try this seemingly simple dish myself. And let me tell you, it absolutely lived up to the hype! From the moment the aroma of roasted tomatoes and creamy feta started filling my kitchen, I knew we were in for a treat. The preparation was incredibly easy, perfect for a busy weeknight, and the result was a rich, flavorful pasta sauce that my entire family devoured. Even my picky eater declared it a “new favorite.” If you’re looking for a comforting, flavorful, and surprisingly effortless meal, look no further. The Baked Feta Pasta is not just a trend; it’s a genuinely delicious and versatile recipe that deserves a permanent spot in your culinary repertoire.

Ingredients

This recipe shines in its simplicity, requiring only a handful of fresh, flavorful ingredients. The quality of your ingredients will directly impact the final taste, so opt for the best you can find, especially when it comes to the feta and tomatoes.

• 8 oz Feta Cheese, Block: Crucially, you need a block of feta cheese, not crumbled feta. The block is designed to bake and become creamy, whereas crumbled feta will dry out and not achieve the desired texture. Look for feta packed in brine; this is generally more flavorful and less dry than pre-crumbled options. You can use either sheep’s milk feta for a tangier, more traditional flavor or cow’s milk feta for a milder, creamier taste.
• 4 Cups Cherry Tomatoes: Cherry tomatoes are ideal for this recipe due to their sweetness and size. They roast beautifully and burst in the oven, creating a luscious, slightly sweet sauce base. You can use grape tomatoes as well, but cherry tomatoes tend to have a more intense flavor. Consider using a mix of colored cherry tomatoes (red, yellow, orange) for a visually appealing dish and a slightly more complex flavor profile.
• 2 Cloves Garlic, Minced: Fresh garlic is essential for adding that pungent, aromatic kick to the sauce. Mincing the garlic ensures it distributes evenly and infuses the olive oil and tomatoes with its flavor. If you’re a garlic lover, feel free to add an extra clove for a bolder taste.
• 1/3 Cup Olive Oil: Good quality olive oil is key for roasting the vegetables and creating a rich, flavorful sauce. Extra virgin olive oil is recommended for its superior flavor and health benefits. The olive oil not only helps the vegetables roast properly but also emulsifies with the melted feta and tomato juices to create a smooth, velvety sauce.
• 1/4 tsp Red Pepper Flakes: A pinch of red pepper flakes adds a subtle warmth and a touch of spice to balance the richness of the feta and tomatoes. If you prefer a spicier dish, you can increase the amount of red pepper flakes. For those sensitive to spice, you can omit them altogether without significantly altering the overall flavor profile.
• 1/4 tsp Oregano: Dried oregano provides a classic Mediterranean flavor that complements the feta and tomatoes perfectly. It adds an earthy, slightly peppery note to the sauce. If you have fresh oregano, you can use about 1 teaspoon of chopped fresh oregano instead of dried, adding it towards the end of the cooking process to preserve its fresh flavor.
• 1/4 tsp Dried Basil: Similar to oregano, dried basil adds another layer of Mediterranean flavor and complements the tomatoes beautifully. It offers a slightly sweeter, more aromatic note. Again, fresh basil can be used – about 1 teaspoon chopped fresh basil added towards the end of cooking.
• 2-3 tbsp Chopped Fresh Basil: Fresh basil is crucial for finishing the dish and adding a burst of freshness and vibrant green color. It’s best added at the very end, just before serving, to maintain its bright flavor and aroma. Don’t skimp on the fresh basil; it truly elevates the final dish.
• 8 oz Pasta of Your Choice: The beauty of this recipe is its versatility when it comes to pasta. You can use any pasta shape you prefer. Short pasta shapes like penne, rigatoni, fusilli, or shells work particularly well as they hold the sauce nicely. Long pasta shapes like spaghetti or linguine can also be used, but the sauce might coat them slightly differently. Consider using whole wheat pasta for added fiber and a nuttier flavor, or gluten-free pasta for dietary restrictions.

Instructions

This Baked Feta Pasta is incredibly straightforward to make, requiring minimal effort and delivering maximum flavor. Follow these simple steps for pasta perfection:

1. Preheat Oven to 425°F (220°C): Preheating the oven to the correct temperature is essential for even roasting of the tomatoes and feta. Ensure your oven is fully preheated before placing the baking dish inside. This high temperature will allow the tomatoes to burst and caramelize while the feta becomes meltingly soft and golden brown.
2. Prepare the Baking Dish: Choose a baking dish that is large enough to comfortably hold all the tomatoes and the block of feta without overcrowding. A 9×13 inch baking dish or a similar sized casserole dish will work well. Pour the cherry tomatoes into the baking dish, spreading them out in a single layer.
3. Place Feta and Garlic: Nestle the block of feta cheese in the center of the tomatoes. This placement allows the feta to be surrounded by the roasting tomatoes and absorb their flavor. Scatter the minced garlic evenly around the tomatoes and the feta.
4. Drizzle with Olive Oil and Season: Generously drizzle the olive oil over the tomatoes and, most importantly, ensure the feta block is also coated in oil. The olive oil is crucial for both flavor and texture. It helps the tomatoes roast and prevents the feta from drying out. Sprinkle the red pepper flakes, dried basil, and dried oregano evenly over the tomatoes and feta. Don’t add salt at this stage, as feta is naturally salty. You can adjust seasoning later if needed.
5. Bake Until Golden and Creamy: Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 30-35 minutes, or until the feta is golden brown on top and the tomatoes have burst and become soft. The exact baking time may vary slightly depending on your oven, so keep an eye on it. The tomatoes should be very soft and juicy, and the feta should be visibly melted and starting to brown around the edges.
6. Cook Pasta While Baking: While the feta and tomatoes are baking, cook your pasta according to package directions. Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Add the pasta and cook until al dente. “Al dente” means “to the tooth” in Italian, indicating the pasta should be firm to the bite, not mushy. Overcooked pasta will become soggy and less enjoyable in the final dish.
7. Reserve Pasta Water: Before draining the pasta, reserve about 1/3 cup of the pasta water. Pasta water is starchy and will help to emulsify the sauce, creating a smoother and creamier consistency. Don’t discard this precious liquid!
8. Mash and Stir: Once the feta and tomatoes are baked and beautifully roasted, remove the baking dish from the oven. Using a fork, gently mash the roasted tomatoes and the softened feta together. Stir everything to combine, creating a creamy, vibrant sauce. The heat from the tomatoes and feta will help to further melt and blend everything together.
9. Thin Sauce with Pasta Water (Optional): If the sauce seems too thick, gradually add some of the reserved pasta water, one tablespoon at a time, stirring after each addition, until you reach your desired sauce consistency. The pasta water will not only thin the sauce but also add a silky texture and enhance the overall flavor.
10. Combine Pasta and Sauce: Add the cooked and drained pasta to the baking dish with the feta and tomato sauce. Stir well to thoroughly coat the pasta with the sauce. Ensure every strand of pasta is lovingly embraced by the flavorful mixture.
11. Add Fresh Basil and Serve: Finally, stir in the chopped fresh basil. The fresh basil adds a bright, aromatic finish and a pop of color. Serve the Baked Feta Pasta immediately while it’s hot and delicious.

Nutrition Facts

(Estimated, per serving, based on standard ingredients. Actual values may vary.)

• Servings: 6
• Calories per serving: Approximately 450-550 calories (This can vary depending on the type of pasta and olive oil used, as well as serving size.)

Approximate Breakdown (per serving):

• Protein: 20-25g
• Fat: 25-35g (Primarily from olive oil and feta cheese, including healthy monounsaturated fats)
• Saturated Fat: 10-15g (From feta cheese and olive oil)
• Cholesterol: 60-80mg
• Sodium: 600-800mg (Primarily from feta cheese and added salt in pasta water)
• Carbohydrates: 40-50g (Primarily from pasta and tomatoes)
• Fiber: 3-5g
• Sugar: 10-15g (Naturally occurring sugars from tomatoes)

Note: These are estimates and can vary. For more precise nutritional information, you can use online nutritional calculators and input the specific brands and quantities of ingredients you use. This recipe, while delicious and satisfying, is relatively high in fat and sodium due to the feta cheese and olive oil. Enjoy in moderation as part of a balanced diet.

Preparation Time

This recipe is a winner for busy weeknights thanks to its minimal prep and hands-off cooking time.

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 40 minutes (30-35 minutes baking, 10 minutes pasta cooking – overlaps)
• Total Time: Approximately 40 minutes

The majority of the time is hands-off, spent baking in the oven. Prep time is minimal, mainly involving chopping garlic and measuring ingredients. This makes it a truly quick and easy meal to prepare, even on a hectic evening.

How to Serve

Baked Feta Pasta is delicious on its own as a satisfying main course. However, you can elevate the meal and create a more complete dining experience with these serving suggestions:

• Garlic Bread or Crusty Bread: Serve with a side of warm garlic bread or crusty bread for dipping into the flavorful sauce. The bread will soak up all the delicious tomato and feta goodness.
• Side Salad: A fresh green salad with a light vinaigrette provides a refreshing contrast to the richness of the pasta. A simple arugula salad with lemon vinaigrette or a mixed green salad with balsamic dressing would be excellent choices.
• Roasted Vegetables: Roast some extra vegetables alongside the feta and tomatoes, or separately while the pasta is baking. Broccoli, asparagus, bell peppers, or zucchini would roast beautifully and complement the pasta.
• Grilled Chicken or Shrimp: For a heartier meal, add grilled chicken or shrimp. The Mediterranean flavors of the pasta pair well with grilled proteins. You can marinate the chicken or shrimp with similar herbs and spices used in the pasta for flavor synergy.
• Sprinkle of Pine Nuts or Toasted Breadcrumbs: Add a sprinkle of toasted pine nuts or crispy breadcrumbs for added texture and a nutty flavor. This adds a pleasant crunch to the creamy pasta.
• Lemon Wedges: Serve with lemon wedges on the side. A squeeze of fresh lemon juice brightens up the flavors and adds a touch of acidity to balance the richness.
• Parmesan Cheese: While feta is the star, a sprinkle of freshly grated Parmesan cheese adds another layer of cheesy goodness and umami flavor. Offer it as an optional topping.
• Wine Pairing: Pair with a crisp white wine like Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio, or a light-bodied red wine like Pinot Noir or Rosé. These wines complement the Mediterranean flavors of the dish.

Additional Tips

Elevate your Baked Feta Pasta to the next level with these helpful tips:

1. Roast for Deeper Flavor: For an even more intense roasted flavor, you can roast the tomatoes and garlic for a bit longer than the recommended time, until they are slightly caramelized and deeply fragrant. Watch carefully to prevent burning.
2. Add Vegetables for Extra Nutrition and Flavor: Boost the nutritional value and flavor complexity by adding other vegetables to the baking dish along with the tomatoes. Bell peppers (especially roasted red peppers), onions (red or yellow), zucchini, eggplant, or mushrooms all roast beautifully and complement the feta and tomatoes. Add them in chunks or slices alongside the cherry tomatoes.
3. Spice it Up: If you enjoy a spicier dish, increase the amount of red pepper flakes, or add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the baking dish. You can also add a fresh chili pepper, thinly sliced, for a more vibrant heat.
4. Use Different Herbs: Experiment with different herbs to customize the flavor profile. Thyme, rosemary, or marjoram would all be delicious additions or substitutions for oregano or basil. Fresh herbs are always best added towards the end of cooking to preserve their flavor and aroma.
5. Make it Creamier: For an even creamier sauce, you can add a splash of heavy cream or crème fraîche to the baking dish after roasting and before mixing in the pasta. This will create an extra decadent and luxurious texture. Alternatively, a swirl of mascarpone cheese at the end adds richness and creaminess.

FAQ Section

Q1: Can I use crumbled feta cheese instead of a block?

A: It’s highly recommended to use a block of feta cheese for this recipe. Crumbled feta is pre-crumbled and often drier, and it won’t melt and become creamy in the same way as a block. Using a block of feta is crucial for achieving the signature creamy texture of the Baked Feta Pasta sauce.

Q2: Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

A: While the Baked Feta Pasta is best enjoyed fresh, you can prepare components ahead of time. You can roast the feta and tomato mixture ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. When ready to serve, simply cook the pasta, reheat the sauce, and combine. However, the pasta is best cooked fresh and added just before serving to prevent it from becoming soggy.

Q3: Can I use different types of tomatoes?

A: Cherry tomatoes are the most commonly used and recommended for their sweetness and burst of flavor. However, you can use other types of tomatoes. Grape tomatoes are a good substitute. If using larger tomatoes like Roma or plum tomatoes, chop them into smaller pieces before roasting. Avoid using very watery tomatoes as they might make the sauce too thin.

Q4: Can I make this recipe vegan?

A: To make this recipe vegan, you would need to substitute the feta cheese with a vegan feta alternative. There are several plant-based feta cheeses available in grocery stores that are designed to melt and mimic the texture of traditional feta. Ensure the vegan feta you choose is suitable for baking. All other ingredients in the recipe are naturally vegan.

Q5: What if I don’t have fresh basil?

A: Fresh basil is highly recommended for its bright, fresh flavor that really elevates the final dish. However, if you don’t have fresh basil, you can use a tablespoon of pesto stirred in at the end for a similar basil flavor. Alternatively, you can use a little extra dried basil, but the fresh basil truly makes a difference. If possible, try to find fresh basil to complete the recipe as intended.

This Baked Feta Pasta is more than just a viral trend; it’s a testament to how simple ingredients, when combined with smart cooking techniques, can create something truly extraordinary. Give it a try, and you’ll understand why this recipe has captured the hearts (and stomachs!) of so many. Enjoy!

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