Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Minimal Effort, Maximum Flavor: With just a handful of ingredients and straightforward steps, you can create a gourmet meal without spending hours in the kitchen.
- Versatile and Customizable: This recipe serves as a great base; you can add your favorite herbs, spices, or proteins to make it your own.
- Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a quick weeknight dinner or a dish to impress guests, Baked Feta Pasta fits the bill.
Ingredients
- 2 ½ cups grape tomatoes, washed and dried
- 1 (8 oz) block of feta cheese
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- ½ teaspoon salt
- 5 tablespoons olive oil
- ¼ cup chopped fresh basil
- 12 oz bow tie pasta, cooked, drained, and kept warm
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
Directions
- Preheat the Oven: Set your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Prepare the Baking Dish: Place the grape tomatoes in a medium-sized baking dish. Position the block of feta cheese in the center, surrounded by the tomatoes.
- Season and Drizzle: Drizzle 3 tablespoons of olive oil over the tomatoes and cheese. Sprinkle the Italian seasoning and salt evenly. Finish by drizzling the remaining 2 tablespoons of olive oil over the feta.
- Bake: Place the dish in the oven and bake for 30-35 minutes, or until the tomatoes have burst, and the cheese has softened.
- Combine: Remove the dish from the oven. Stir the softened feta and tomatoes together until well combined. Add the chopped fresh basil and mix.
- Add Pasta: Incorporate the cooked pasta into the mixture, ensuring each piece is well coated with the sauce. Serve hot.
Servings and Timing
- Servings: This recipe yields 4 servings.
- Prep Time: Approximately 15 minutes.
- Cook Time: Approximately 35 minutes.
- Total Time: Approximately 50 minutes.
Variations
- Cheese Alternatives: If you’re not a fan of feta, consider using goat cheese, halloumi, ricotta, or queso fresco.
- Herb Substitutions: Swap Italian seasoning with Herbes de Provence or your favorite herbs and spices like red pepper flakes for a kick.
- Pasta Choices: While bow tie pasta is recommended, any short pasta such as penne, macaroni, orecchiette, or conchiglie works well.
- Additional Ingredients: Enhance the dish by adding chopped roasted bell peppers, olives, canned artichokes, or fresh spinach leaves.
Storage/Reheating
- Storage: Allow leftovers to cool to room temperature before transferring them to an airtight container. Refrigerate for up to 4 days.
- Reheating: To reheat, add a tablespoon of water to the pasta and microwave, covered, for 2 or more minutes until hot. Stir halfway through to ensure even heating.
- Freezing: Freezing this pasta is not recommended, as the texture may change upon thawing.
FAQs
What type of tomatoes can I use besides grape tomatoes?
Cherry tomatoes or a medley of cherry tomatoes can be used as substitutes.
Can I use a different type of cheese?
Yes, alternatives like goat cheese, halloumi, ricotta, or queso fresco can be used.
Is it possible to make this dish vegan?
To make a vegan version, use a plant-based feta alternative and ensure the pasta does not contain eggs.
Can I add protein to this dish?
Absolutely, grilled chicken, shrimp, or tofu can be added for extra protein.
How can I make this dish gluten-free?
Use gluten-free pasta to accommodate dietary restrictions.
What other herbs can I use if I don’t have fresh basil?
Fresh parsley, oregano, or thyme can be good alternatives.
Can I prepare this dish in advance?
It’s best enjoyed fresh, but you can prepare the tomato and feta mixture in advance and combine it with freshly cooked pasta when ready to serve.
How do I prevent the dish from becoming too oily?
Stick to the recommended amount of olive oil, and drain any excess oil before mixing with the pasta if necessary.
What side dishes pair well with Baked Feta Pasta?
A crisp green salad or garlic bread complements this dish nicely.
Can I use whole wheat pasta?
Yes, whole wheat pasta can be used for a healthier alternative.
Conclusion
Baked Feta Pasta is a delightful dish that brings together simple ingredients to create a flavorful and comforting meal. Its versatility allows for numerous variations, making it a staple recipe you’ll return to time and again.
Print
Baked Feta Pasta
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Baked Feta Pasta is a viral sensation combining creamy feta cheese, roasted tomatoes, and pasta for a quick, flavorful, and versatile dish that’s perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients
- 2 ½ cups grape tomatoes, washed and dried
- 1 (8 oz) block of feta cheese
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- ½ teaspoon salt
- 5 tablespoons olive oil
- ¼ cup chopped fresh basil
- 12 oz bow tie pasta, cooked and drained
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Prepare Dish: Place grape tomatoes in a medium baking dish. Add the block of feta cheese in the center.
- Season: Drizzle 3 tablespoons of olive oil over the tomatoes and feta. Sprinkle with Italian seasoning and salt, then drizzle the remaining olive oil over the feta.
- Bake: Bake for 30-35 minutes until the tomatoes burst, and the feta softens.
- Mix: Remove from oven and stir together the softened feta and tomatoes. Add fresh basil and combine.
- Add Pasta: Toss in the cooked pasta and coat evenly with the sauce. Serve hot.
Notes
- Variations: Swap feta for goat cheese or ricotta, or add spinach or roasted peppers for extra flavor.
- Storage: Refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
- Reheating: Add a splash of water and microwave covered until heated through.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Mediterranean
