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 combines the rich and creamy taste of feta with the sweet juiciness of grape tomatoes, creating a delightful dish that captures the essence of Mediterranean flavors. The baked feta becomes beautifully golden and soft, mingling with the tomatoes to form a luxurious sauce that clings lovingly to pasta. Fresh garlic and vibrant spinach add depth, making each bite both satisfying and healthy. This dish is not only a feast for the palate but also a colorful centerpiece that will impress guests as it fills your kitchen with irresistible aromas.

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

My first encounter with Baked Feta Pasta was during a family gathering, where everyone gathered around the table, eagerly anticipating the meal. It quickly became a family favorite—so simple to prepare yet undeniably impressive. Even the pickiest of eaters couldn’t resist a second helping! This recipe is perfect for weeknights when you crave something indulgent but easy. I can’t wait for you to give it a try; it’s as rewarding to make as it is to savor.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Simple & Quick: Prepped in just 15 minutes and ready to enjoy in under an hour—perfect for busy evenings.
Irresistible Flavor: Creamy feta, sweet roasted tomatoes, and hearty garlic collide for a luscious taste.
Eye-Catching Appeal: A vibrant dish that looks stunning on any table thanks to its colorful ingredients.
Flexible Serving: Ideal for cozy family dinners or as a dish that steals the spotlight at gatherings.
Diet-Friendly Options: Perfect for vegetarians, plus easily adaptable for gluten-free diets with the right pasta!

Ingredients You’ll Need

20 oz grape tomatoes: These sweet little jewels hold up well in the oven, bursting with flavor when roasted.
5 medium garlic cloves, peeled and halved: Adds robust flavor; feel free to add more if you love garlic!
8 oz spinach, roughly chopped (about 8 packed cups): Fresh spinach adds a pop of color and nutrition. You can use frozen, but it won’t be as vibrant.
1/4 cup fresh basil, thinly sliced: Nothing beats the fresh aroma of basil; it lifts the dish beautifully.
2 tbsp fresh parsley, minced: This adds a fresh finish; don’t skip it!
7 – 8 oz block feta cheese (sheep’s milk variety), drained: Sheep’s milk feta offers a creamier texture; goat cheese works too, but it will be tangier.
10 oz dry pasta: Use shapes like campanelle, rigatoni, or rotini for best results—grab your favorite!
1/2 cup extra-virgin olive oil: A high-quality oil enhances the flavor; it’s worth splurging here.
1 tbsp salt for pasta water: Essential for seasoning the pasta and drawing out flavors.
1/4 tsp crushed red pepper flakes or more to taste: For a little kick; adjust to your taste preferences.
Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste: Use fresh ground if you can—it really makes a difference.
1/2 cup reserved pasta water: This helps to thin and flavor the sauce without losing any of that glorious pasta starch.

How to Make Baked Feta Pasta

Preheat the oven: Heat your oven to 400 degrees Fahrenheit, so it’s nice and hot when you add the dish.

Toss tomatoes and garlic: In a 3-quart baking dish, add 20 oz of grape tomatoes and 5 halved garlic cloves. Drizzle with 1/2 cup of extra-virgin olive oil, lightly seasoning with a few pinches of salt and black pepper. Next, place the 7-8 oz block of drained feta cheese right in the center of the tomatoes, turning it in the oil to coat.

Bake the dish: Pop the baking dish into the center of your preheated oven. Bake for 30 minutes, until the tomatoes soften and start to burst, and the feta gets a bit golden.

Crank up the heat: After the initial bake, carefully remove the dish and adjust your oven rack to the upper third. Increase the temperature to 450 degrees Fahrenheit, then return the baking dish to the oven. Bake for an additional 10 minutes or until the tomatoes are browned and the feta is melting luxuriously.

Boil your pasta: While the feta and tomatoes are baking, bring a large pot of water to a rolling boil. Once boiling, add 1 tablespoon of salt and your 10 oz of dry pasta. Cook according to package instructions until al dente, usually around 10-12 minutes.

Add the spinach: Just before you drain the pasta, add 8 oz of roughly chopped spinach into the boiling water. It will wilt almost instantly! Drain both the pasta and spinach together, reserving 1/2 cup of that beautiful starchy pasta water.

Combine the ingredients: Using the back of a wooden spoon, smash the roasted tomatoes, garlic, oil, and feta together in the baking dish. Once it forms a sumptuous sauce, add the drained pasta and spinach into the mix along with 1/4 cup of thinly sliced fresh basil, 2 tablespoons of minced parsley, and 1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes.

Adjust the consistency: Stir everything together, adding reserved pasta water a few tablespoons at a time until you reach your desired consistency. Don’t forget to taste and season with more salt and freshly ground black pepper as needed.

Serve warm: This dish is best enjoyed warm; serve it right out of the oven for a comforting, creamy delight!

Storing & Reheating

Baked Feta Pasta can be kept at room temperature for about 2 hours, but to extend its freshness, transfer any leftovers into an airtight container and refrigerate. It will stay good for up to 3 days. Unfortunately, freezing isn’t recommended since the texture may alter when thawed; however, if you must freeze it, it can last up to 3 months. When ready to enjoy again, simply reheat in the oven at 350 degrees Fahrenheit until warmed through, about 20 minutes. You may need to add a splash of water or olive oil to freshen up its creamy texture.

Chef’s Helpful Tips

Avoid overcooking your pasta: Cook just until al dente since it will continue to cook slightly when mixed with the sauce.
Use room temperature feta: This helps it melt more harmoniously.
Taste as you go: Adjust the seasonings to match your palate; everyone has different preferences.
Add protein: For a heartier meal, consider tossing in some grilled chicken or shrimp.
Experiment with flavors: Consider adding a squeeze of lemon juice or more herbs to brighten up the dish if you like a fresh finish.

Baked Feta Pasta is not just a dish—it’s an experience that brings everyone together, whether around a dinner table or while enjoying a quick weeknight meal. This buttery, cheesy, and flavorful pasta will quickly become a staple in your kitchen! Don’t hesitate to get creative with flavors and add-ins. I can’t wait for you to enjoy every comforting bite.

Recipe FAQs

Can I use different types of pasta?

Absolutely! While campanelle, rigatoni, or rotini work beautifully with the sauce, feel free to use what you have on hand. Gluten-free pasta is also a great alternative that maintains the dish’s charm.

What kind of feta should I use?

Opt for a sheep’s milk feta for its creaminess and rich flavor. If you prefer a tangy profile, goat cheese can substitute, but the dish will taste different. Always ensure it’s a block rather than crumbled for the best melting characteristics.

Can I prepare this dish in advance?

You can prep the ingredients ahead of time and store them separately in the fridge. Combine and cook the dish just before serving to enjoy the freshest flavors.

How do I store leftovers for the best results?

To keep leftovers fresh, place them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. When reheating, add a splash of water or olive oil to maintain the sauciness and prevent dryness. Enjoy it again for a quick and easy meal!