Baked Feta Pasta: The Ultimate Cozy Dish

Looking for a simple yet delicious recipe that dazzles both the eyes and the palate? Look no further than Baked Feta Pasta! This dish, a viral sensation and comfort food classic, combines the creaminess of baked feta with vibrant roasted tomatoes tossed in al dente pasta. With just one bite, you’ll be transported to Mediterranean shores, surrounded by the aroma of fresh basil and the warmth of sun-ripened tomatoes. It’s the comforting hug you need after a long day, perfect for intimate family dinners or as a crowd-pleasing dish at gatherings.

Recipe Information

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Total Time: 40 minutes
• Servings: 4
• Difficulty Level: Easy

Nutrition Information (per serving)

• Calories: 400
• Protein: 12g
• Carbohydrates: 50g
• Fat: 18g

Why Make This Recipe

Why should you whip up this Baked Feta Pasta? For starters, it’s incredibly easy to prepare—perfect for novice cooks or those who just want a quick meal. The marriage of creamy, tangy feta, juicy roasted tomatoes, and tender pasta creates a symphony of flavors and textures that will have you coming back for more. The aroma wafting through your home as it bakes is simply irresistible, setting the mood for a snug dinner or a joyful night with friends. It’s a dish that’s bound to impress yet is effortless to execute!

How to Make Baked Feta Pasta

Ingredients:

• 200g pasta (penne or fusilli)
• 200g feta cheese
• 2 cups cherry tomatoes
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/4 cup olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh basil for garnish

Optional Ingredients and Substitutions:

• Crushed red pepper flakes for a spicy kick
• Spinach or arugula to boost the greens
• Whole wheat or gluten-free pasta as an alternative
• Vegan feta cheese for a plant-based version

Instructions:

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a baking dish, combine cherry tomatoes, garlic, and feta cheese. Drizzle with olive oil and season with salt and pepper.
3. Bake for 30 minutes or until the tomatoes have burst and the feta is softened. The glorious aroma will fill your kitchen!
4. Meanwhile, cook the pasta according to package instructions in a large pot of boiling salted water until al dente.
5. Once the baking is done, mash the feta and tomatoes together with a fork to create a creamy sauce.
6. Add the cooked pasta to the baking dish and toss to combine.
7. Serve hot, garnished with fresh basil for a burst of color and flavor.

Cooking Tips:

• Don’t Overmix: When tossing the pasta with the sauce, gently fold to keep the texture light and fluffy.
• Testing Doneness: Taste your pasta a minute before the package instructs to ensure it’s cooked just right.

How to Serve

This Baked Feta Pasta is delightful as is, but you can elevate the dish with a sprinkle of extra herbs, a drizzle of balsamic glaze, or even a side of garlic bread for a truly hearty meal. It’s also great alongside a crisp green salad or a glass of your favorite white wine.

How to Store

• Room Temperature: Best enjoyed immediately, but can sit for about 2-3 hours.
• Refrigerator: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Freezer: You can also freeze this dish for up to 3 months; just reheat in an oven-safe dish, adding a splash of olive oil for moisture.

Expert Tips

• Opt for high-quality feta; it makes all the difference in flavor.
• Roasting the garlic with the tomatoes enhances their sweetness; don’t skip it!
• Want a little crunch? Sprinkle with toasted pine nuts or walnuts before serving.

Delicious Variations

• Vegan Baked Feta Pasta: Replace feta with a vegan alternative.
• Add Protein: Toss in grilled chicken or chickpeas for a protein boost.
• Flavor Boosts: Add a splash of lemon juice or zest for a refreshing zing.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use other fruits?

• This recipe is best suited for tomatoes, but for a unique twist, try using roasted bell peppers for a slightly sweeter flavor.

Why is it dry/dense?

• If your pasta ends up dry, you might need to add a touch of pasta water during mixing or ensure sufficient olive oil.

What can I do with leftovers?

• Leftovers can be reheated for lunch the next day or transformed into a delicious pasta salad with the addition of fresh veggies.

Can I use frozen ingredients?

• Yes! Frozen cherry tomatoes work well, but try to thaw them before baking to ensure proper cooking.

Conclusion

In a world where time is precious, Baked Feta Pasta provides an easy solution without sacrificing taste. Whether you’re having a cozy night in or entertaining guests, this dish will make your table shine. Don’t just take our word for it—try this tantalizing recipe today! We would love to hear your thoughts and any creative twists you put on it. Happy cooking!

Baked Feta Pasta

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• Author: recipechangegmail-com
• Total Time: 40 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings 1x
• Diet: Vegetarian

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Description

A viral sensation that combines the creaminess of baked feta with vibrant roasted tomatoes tossed in al dente pasta, bringing Mediterranean flavors to your table.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 200g pasta (penne or fusilli)
• 200g feta cheese
• 2 cups cherry tomatoes
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/4 cup olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh basil for garnish

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Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a baking dish, combine cherry tomatoes, garlic, and feta cheese. Drizzle with olive oil and season with salt and pepper.
3. Bake for 30 minutes or until the tomatoes have burst and the feta is softened.
4. Meanwhile, cook the pasta according to package instructions in a large pot of boiling salted water until al dente.
5. Once the baking is done, mash the feta and tomatoes together with a fork to create a creamy sauce.
6. Add the cooked pasta to the baking dish and toss to combine.
7. Serve hot, garnished with fresh basil.

Notes

Best enjoyed immediately, but leftovers can last for up to 3 days in an airtight container. For extra creaminess, add a splash of pasta water when mixing.

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Category: Main Course
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: Mediterranean

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 serving
• Calories: 400
• Sugar: 5g
• Sodium: 600mg
• Fat: 18g
• Saturated Fat: 7g
• Unsaturated Fat: 10g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 50g
• Fiber: 3g
• Protein: 12g
• Cholesterol: 30mg