Name: Baked Feta Pasta
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 50 min
Total time: 1 h 5 min
Cuisine: Mediterranean
Ingredients: 20 oz grape tomatoes; 5 medium garlic cloves, peeled and halved; 8 oz spinach, roughly chopped about 8 packed cups; 1/4 cup fresh basil, thinly sliced; 2 tbsp fresh parsley, minced; 7 – 8 oz block feta cheese (sheep's milk variety) drained; 10 oz dry pasta such as campanelle, rigatoni, rotini, penne, bow tie, or cavatappi; 1/2 cup extra-virgin olive oil; 1 tbsp salt for pasta water; 1/4 tsp crushed red pepper flakes or more to taste; salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste; 1/2 cup reserved pasta water

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Baked Feta Pasta is not just another pasta dish; it’s a delightful medley of ingredients that come together to create a vibrant and flavorful meal. Picture plump grape tomatoes bursting with juicy sweetness, golden feta cheese melting and becoming deliciously creamy, and fragrant garlic intensifying the entire experience. With every bite, you’re treated to an explosion of Mediterranean flavors that is sure to impress. This dish has soared in popularity, especially for busy weeknights when you crave something comforting yet sophisticated—without spending hours in the kitchen.

Table of Contents

Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Ingredients You’ll Need
How to Make Baked Feta Pasta
Storing & Reheating
Chef’s Helpful Tips
Recipe FAQs
Baked Feta Pasta

I first encountered this recipe during a cozy dinner with friends. The kitchen filled with the aroma of the roasted tomatoes and herbed feta, making it impossible to wait until it came out of the oven. Since then, Baked Feta Pasta has quickly become one of my go-to meals. Not only is it easy to whip up, but it also speaks to the heart by bringing people together around the table. You can adjust the flavors to your liking, making it not just a meal, but a canvas for your culinary creativity. I wholeheartedly invite you to experience this tasty dish—it’s a sure way to impress your family or guests!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Simple & Quick: Ready in just about 50 minutes, perfect for busy nights.
Irresistible Flavor: The combination of roasted feta and fresh tomatoes creates a creamy, tangy delight.
Eye-Catching Appeal: With its vibrant colors, this dish doubles as a centerpiece for your table.
Flexible Serving: Great for dinner, lunch, or even a picnic.
Diet-Friendly Options: Easily adaptable for gluten-free pasta or vegan cheese.

Ingredients You’ll Need

20 oz grape tomatoes: These tiny gems burst with sweetness and cook down beautifully, amplifying the dish’s flavors. You can substitute them with cherry tomatoes, but ensure they’re ripe for the best taste.
5 medium garlic cloves, peeled and halved: Garlic adds that aromatic warmth we love; using whole cloves instead of minced gives a more robust flavor.
8 oz spinach, roughly chopped (about 8 packed cups): Fresh spinach wilts down quickly, adding a nutritious touch. If fresh isn’t available, you can use frozen spinach—just make sure to thaw and squeeze out excess moisture.
1/4 cup fresh basil, thinly sliced: This herb brings a fresh note that perfectly balances the richness. You can swap it for dried basil, though fresh is preferred for its vibrant flavor.
2 tbsp fresh parsley, minced: Adding this herb gives a bright finish; substitute with oregano for a different twist.
7 – 8 oz block feta cheese (sheep’s milk variety): The star of the dish! Its creamy texture and tangy flavor elevate everything. Crumbled feta can be used, but a block will melt beautifully.
10 oz dry pasta (campanelle, rigatoni, rotini, penne, bow tie, or cavatappi): Choose any shape you love; it should hold the sauce and cheese well. Whole wheat or gluten-free options work great too!
1/2 cup extra-virgin olive oil: Essential for roasting the veggies and adds incredible flavor. Don’t skimp on quality; a fruity oil enhances the taste.
1 tbsp salt for pasta water: This is crucial for flavoring your pasta. Don’t forget to salt the water; it makes a big difference!
1/4 tsp crushed red pepper flakes (or more to taste): Adds a lovely kick; you can adjust to suit your spice preference.
Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste: Seasoning is key to elevate the overall flavor.
1/2 cup reserved pasta water: Helps to create a silky sauce; it’s a little trick that makes a big difference in texture.

How to Make Baked Feta Pasta

Preheat oven: Begin by preheating your oven to 400°F. This ensures even roasting.

Combine tomatoes and garlic: In a 3-quart baking dish, place the grape tomatoes and halved garlic cloves. Drizzle with 1/2 cup extra-virgin olive oil and season with a few pinches of salt and freshly ground black pepper.

Add feta: Nestle the block of feta cheese right in the center of the tomatoes. Turn it gently to coat in olive oil, which will help it melt beautifully.

Bake: Slide the dish into the center of your preheated oven and let it bake for 30 minutes. You’ll know it’s ready when the tomatoes are tender and fragrant.

Increase heat: After 30 minutes, carefully remove the baking dish. Move the oven rack to the upper third and increase the temperature to 450°F. Bake for an additional 10 minutes until both the tomatoes and cheese begin to brown lightly.

Cook pasta: While your tomato mixture is baking, bring large pot of salted water (about 1 tablespoon of salt with 3 to 4 quarts of water) to a boil. Add 10 oz of your chosen pasta, cooking until al dente as per package instructions.

Wilt spinach: Right before draining the pasta, add 8 oz of roughly chopped spinach to the boiling water. It will wilt almost instantly, creating a nutritious boost in your dish!

Combine and smash: Drain the pasta and spinach together. Using the back of a wooden spoon, smash the roasted tomatoes and garlic along with the melted feta until a creamy sauce forms.

Toss pasta: Add in the drained pasta, wilted spinach, 1/4 cup fresh basil, 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, and 1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes. Toss everything together, ensuring the pasta is well coated.

Adjust consistency: If it looks a bit thick, gradually add in some of the reserved 1/2 cup pasta water until you reach your desired sauce consistency. Season with salt and freshly ground black pepper as needed.

Serve warm: Dish it out while it’s warm, and enjoy the delightful combination of flavors!

Storing & Reheating

To store leftovers, simply place your Baked Feta Pasta in an airtight container and refrigerate it for up to 4 days. If you’re looking to save it longer, you can freeze it for up to 3 months—just ensure it’s in a freezer-safe container. To reheat, place it in the oven at 350°F for about 15–20 minutes or in the microwave until heated through. While the flavor will still be delicious, the texture may change slightly. A splash of olive oil can help refresh it!

Chef’s Helpful Tips

To avoid a watery texture, ensure you drain the pasta well and don’t over-add pasta water.
If you’re using frozen spinach, make sure it’s well-drained and not icy, which can dilute flavors.
The baking dish should be large enough to allow the tomatoes and feta to roast evenly and develop flavor.
For a tangier taste, try adding a squeeze of lemon juice right before serving.
Make ahead by prepping the tomatoes and feta to bake in advance and adding the pasta closer to serving time.

Baked Feta Pasta brings together the best of fresh ingredients and simple methods for an unforgettable meal. You’ll love how easily this dish comes together, bringing warmth and comfort with every bite. The balance of flavors leaves room for you to get creative, whether you want to add some protein like grilled chicken or toss in different vegetables. Feel free to experiment with seasonal ingredients or herbs you have on hand. I hope you enjoy this dish as much as I do!

Recipe FAQs

Can I use different types of pasta?

Absolutely! You can use any pasta shape you prefer, such as rotini, penne, or bow tie. Just be sure to adjust cooking times according to your choice.

How can I make this gluten-free?

Simply swap out traditional pasta for a gluten-free pasta option. There are many great varieties available that cook similarly to regular pasta.

Can I add protein to this dish?

Yes! Grilled chicken, shrimp, or even chickpeas can be great additions for added protein. Just cook them separately and toss them in before serving.

What can I use instead of feta cheese?

If you’d like a dairy-free version, try using a vegan feta or a nut-based cheese alternative. It won’t be identical but can still provide a lovely creamy element to the dish.