Save It This creamy baked feta and tomato pasta transforms a pack of cherry tomatoes and a block of feta into a luscious sauce with almost no hands-on work. Just bake everything together until melting and golden then toss with hot pasta for a quick crowd-pleaser inspired by Mediterranean flavors.
The first time I made this dish I was amazed at how such simple ingredients could create such big flavor. Now it is my go-to for busy weeknights and impressing friends who come by for dinner
Ingredients
- Cherry tomatoes: Bring juicy sweetness and roast up beautifully. Look for tomatoes that are firm smooth and brightly colored for best flavor
- Feta cheese: Provides briny richness that transforms into a creamy sauce when baked. Use a block rather than crumbles for ideal melt and creaminess
- Olive oil: Adds richness and helps the tomatoes blister and caramelize. Choose a fruity extra virgin olive oil if possible
- Garlic: Gives aromatic punch. Freshly minced garlic is best for this recipe
- Dried oregano: Adds herby brightness. Mediterranean oregano is especially fragrant and complements the feta
- Pasta: Like penne or fusilli easily captures all the sauce. Opt for authentic Italian or bronze-cut pastas for the best bite and flavor
- Fresh basil: For finishing adds lift and freshness. Select vibrant unwilted leaves for that classic aroma
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven:
- Set your oven to 400 F or 200 C so it is hot enough to roast and melt the ingredients together
- Arrange the Baking Dish:
- Place the block of feta cheese in the center of a medium baking dish then surround it with cherry tomatoes nestling them closely all around
- Season for Maximum Flavor:
- Drizzle everything evenly with olive oil so the tomatoes and feta glisten. Sprinkle the minced garlic and dried oregano over the tomatoes and cheese ensuring good coverage for maximum flavor infusion
- Bake Until Bubbling and Golden:
- Bake the dish uncovered for about 25 minutes. The tomatoes should burst and release their juices while the feta becomes soft creamy and lightly golden on top
- Boil the Pasta:
- While the feta and tomatoes are baking bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Add your chosen pasta and cook until just al dente for the perfect texture. Drain thoroughly and set aside
- Form the Sauce and Toss:
- Straight from the oven mash the feta and tomatoes together with a sturdy spoon breaking up the cheese and mixing everything into a creamy slightly chunky sauce
- Combine and Serve:
- Toss the hot drained pasta with the feta tomato sauce right in the baking dish so every piece is coated. Top with chopped fresh basil if you like and serve immediately while hot and fragrant
Save It I always reach for Greek feta because its tangy flavor turns this simple pasta into something special. Watching my family dive into the bubbling dish straight from the oven is one of my favorite weeknight memories
Storage Tips
Leftover baked feta pasta keeps well in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat gently with a splash of water or milk to revive the creaminess. If you are making it in advance or for meal prep portion cooled pasta into containers for easy grab and go lunches
Ingredient Substitutions
Swap feta for goat cheese for a milder more spreadable sauce. Use gluten free or whole wheat pasta to suit your dietary needs. Replace cherry tomatoes with grape tomatoes or halved cocktail tomatoes if preferred. Vegan feta works beautifully for those avoiding dairy and still gives lovely richness
Serving Suggestions
Serve with crusty bread to scoop up extra sauce. Add sautéed spinach or arugula for extra greens. Top each bowl with toasted pine nuts for a little crunch and nutty depth. Lightly drizzle with more olive oil for gloss and flavor
Save It This creamy pasta has become a global favorite for good reason—simple steps big flavor and endless adaptations keep it in our dinner rotation every season.
Recipe FAQs
- → Which type of pasta works best for this dish?
Short pasta shapes like penne or fusilli are ideal as they hold the creamy feta sauce well. Gluten-free or whole wheat varieties also work.
- → Can I use a different cheese instead of feta?
Feta provides a distinctly creamy and tangy flavor, but you can substitute with a similar crumbly cheese like vegan feta for dietary preferences.
- → How can I add extra flavor?
Try adding red pepper flakes for heat, or mix in roasted vegetables or olives for more Mediterranean depth.
- → Is this pasta suitable for meal prep?
Yes, you can bake the components ahead of time and combine with freshly cooked pasta when ready to serve. Reheat gently for best texture.
- → What can I use instead of cherry tomatoes?
Grape tomatoes or chopped Roma tomatoes work well as substitutes, though cooking times may vary slightly.