Baked Feta and Tomato Pasta
This viral sensation brings together creamy baked feta, burst cherry tomatoes, and aromatic garlic into a luscious sauce, perfectly coating al dente pasta for an effortlessly delicious weeknight meal.
For 4 servings
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
Place the block of feta cheese in the center of a 9x13 inch (23x33 cm) baking dish. Arrange the cherry tomatoes around the feta.
Add the minced garlic to the dish, then drizzle generously with extra virgin olive oil. Season with kosher salt, freshly ground black pepper, and red pepper flakes (if using).
Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until the tomatoes have burst and softened, and the feta is golden brown and bubbly around the edges.
While the feta and tomatoes are baking, cook the pasta according to package directions in a large pot of salted boiling water until al dente. Reserve about 1 cup of pasta water before draining the pasta.
Carefully remove the baking dish from the oven. Using a fork or potato masher, gently mash the roasted feta and tomatoes together in the dish to create a creamy sauce.
Add the drained pasta to the baking dish. Toss well to coat the pasta evenly with the sauce. If the sauce seems too thick, add a splash of the reserved pasta water, a tablespoon at a time, until it reaches your desired consistency.
Stir in the fresh basil leaves. Serve immediately, garnished with extra basil if desired.
What to keep in mind.
4 tips from the recipe — small details that make a real difference to the final dish.
- 1Use a good quality feta cheese for the best flavor and creamiest texture; avoid pre-crumbled feta as it tends to dry out.
- 2Don't overcrowd the baking dish; use a larger one if necessary to allow the tomatoes to roast evenly and caramelize properly.
- 3Always reserve some pasta water! It's starchy and helps emulsify the sauce, making it cling better to the pasta and achieve a silky consistency.
- 4For an extra layer of flavor, a drizzle of balsamic glaze or a sprinkle of toasted pine nuts can be added just before serving.
Adapt it for your goals.
Protein Boost
Add cooked chicken, shrimp, or chickpeas to the baking dish during the last 10 minutes of baking, or stir in with the pasta for a more substantial meal.
Veggie LoadedVeggie Loaded
Incorporate other quick-cooking vegetables like sliced bell peppers, zucchini, or spinach into the baking dish with the tomatoes for added nutrients and flavor.
Herbaceous TwistHerbaceous Twist
Experiment with other fresh herbs like oregano, thyme, or parsley in addition to or instead of basil for a different aromatic profile.
Why this is on our healthy list.
Rich in Antioxidants
Cherry tomatoes are packed with lycopene, a powerful antioxidant that may help protect cells from damage and support heart health.
Source of Calcium
Feta cheese provides a good amount of calcium, essential for strong bones and teeth, and also contains beneficial probiotics for gut health.
Healthy Fats
Extra virgin olive oil is a monounsaturated fat, known for its anti-inflammatory properties and benefits for cardiovascular health.
Frequently asked questions
While feta is traditional and provides a unique tangy flavor, you can experiment with goat cheese or even a creamy burrata, though the flavor and texture of the sauce will differ. Avoid hard cheeses as they won't melt into a sauce.
