We tried the baked feta pasta that’s taking over TikTok, and we can’t stop making it! This dish is incredibly easy to prepare and bursting with flavor. You should try it immediately!
Ingredients
- For the Sauce:
- Salt to taste
- Pepper to taste
- 2 cups cherry tomatoes
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 1 teaspoon oregano
- 1 block (about 200g) feta cheese
- For the Pasta:
- 250g pasta (any shape you like)
Method
Preparing the Baked Feta and Tomato Sauce
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 200°C (400°F).
- Prepare the Baking Dish: In a large ovenproof baking dish, add the cherry tomatoes. Drizzle with 1/4 cup of olive oil and sprinkle with salt, pepper, and oregano to taste. Toss the tomatoes to coat them evenly with the seasoning.
- Add the Feta: Make a space in the center of the baking dish and place the block of feta cheese there. Drizzle a little more olive oil over the feta, and sprinkle with a bit more oregano.
- Bake: Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 30-35 minutes, or until the tomatoes have burst and the feta is soft and slightly golden brown on top.
Cooking the Pasta
- Cook the Pasta: While the feta and tomatoes are baking, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain the pasta, reserving about 1/2 cup of the pasta cooking water.
Combining and Serving
- Mix the Sauce and Pasta: Remove the baking dish from the oven. Using a fork or a spoon, mash the softened feta and burst tomatoes together until you have a creamy sauce. Add the cooked pasta to the baking dish and toss everything together until the pasta is well coated with the sauce. If the sauce is too thick, add a little of the reserved pasta cooking water to reach your desired consistency.
- Serve: Serve the baked feta pasta hot, garnished with fresh basil or parsley if desired.
Tips and Variations
- Herb Variations: Try adding different herbs like thyme, rosemary, or basil for a different flavor profile.
- Additions: For added flavor, consider mixing in some crushed garlic, red pepper flakes, or a squeeze of lemon juice.
- Vegetables: You can add other vegetables like spinach, bell peppers, or zucchini to the dish for extra nutrition and flavor.
- Protein: Add some cooked chicken, shrimp, or bacon to the pasta for a heartier meal.
Nutritional Information
This baked feta pasta provides a good balance of carbohydrates from the pasta, healthy fats from the olive oil, and protein from the feta cheese. Adjust portion sizes to fit your dietary needs and preferences.
Storage and Reheating
- Storage: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Reheating: Reheat in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of water or milk to loosen the sauce if needed. Alternatively, reheat in the microwave.
This viral baked feta pasta is a simple yet incredibly flavorful dish that’s perfect for any occasion. The combination of roasted cherry tomatoes, creamy feta cheese, and perfectly cooked pasta creates a mouthwatering meal that’s sure to become a favorite in your household.
Step-by-Step Guide to Perfect Baked Feta Pasta
- Season Generously: Make sure to season the tomatoes and feta well with salt, pepper, and oregano for maximum flavor.
- Bake Until Golden: Bake until the tomatoes burst and the feta is golden brown for the best texture and flavor.
- Combine Thoroughly: Mix the pasta and sauce thoroughly to ensure every bite is coated with the delicious creamy sauce.
- Adjust Consistency: Use the reserved pasta water to adjust the sauce to your desired consistency.
Share the Delight
If you’ve enjoyed making and eating this baked feta pasta, share the recipe with your friends and family. It’s a fun and easy dish that adds a delicious touch to any meal.
Final Thoughts
This baked feta pasta recipe is a testament to how simple ingredients can come together to create something truly special. Enjoy making and sharing this delightful dish, and savor every creamy, tangy bite. Happy cooking and see you in the next recipe!
This recipe transforms basic ingredients into a gourmet treat with minimal effort. Enjoy the rich flavors and satisfying texture of this baked feta pasta, a delightful addition to any meal.