If you’ve ever dreamed of a pasta night that’s as easy as it is impressive, the Baked Feta Pasta Recipe with Cherry Tomatoes will make your taste buds do a happy dance! Imagine a baking dish filled with sweet, blistered cherry tomatoes and a creamy block of feta that melts into a savory, tangy sauce, all tossed with perfectly cooked pasta. This viral favorite comes together in just one pan and captures the heart of Mediterranean flavors, making it a staple for busy weeknights or whenever you want to treat yourself without spending hours in the kitchen.
Ingredients You’ll Need
What makes this dish truly magical is the simplicity of the ingredients. Each item plays a key role, from the juicy tomatoes that burst with color and sweetness, to the rich, tangy feta that transforms into a luxurious sauce. Here’s a closer look at what you’ll need for a flawless Baked Feta Pasta Recipe with Cherry Tomatoes experience:
- 2 pints cherry tomatoes: Their natural sweetness and acidity roast beautifully, creating the base of the sauce.
- 8 ounces block feta cheese: A block (rather than crumbles) offers a creamier, meltier result that’s luscious and satisfying.
- ¼ cup extra virgin olive oil: Adds a silky texture and ties all the flavors together.
- 3 garlic cloves (minced): Brings aromatic depth and a mellow, savory warmth to every bite.
- ½ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes: Offers a gentle kick of spice that balances the creamy feta.
- ½ teaspoon salt: Essential for highlighting every ingredient’s flavor.
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper: Adds a subtle, earthy sharpness to round out the taste.
- 10 ounces pasta (such as penne or rotini): Spiral or tube-shaped pasta holds the creamy sauce in every forkful.
- ¼ cup chopped fresh basil: Infuses the finished dish with vibrant, herbal freshness.
- Optional grated Parmesan for serving: A finishing flourish of umami richness, perfect for cheese lovers.
How to Make Baked Feta Pasta Recipe with Cherry Tomatoes
Step 1: Preheat and Prep
Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C) so it’s nice and hot for roasting. Grab a large baking dish, and add in all your cherry tomatoes. Place the block of feta cheese right in the center of the tomatoes—this is where the magic happens!
Step 2: Season and Oil
Drizzle everything in your baking dish with extra virgin olive oil, ensuring both the tomatoes and feta get a generous coating. Sprinkle on the minced garlic, crushed red pepper flakes, salt, and black pepper. Lightly toss the tomatoes so they’re evenly coated with the flavorful oil and seasonings, but keep that feta nestled in the middle.
Step 3: Bake to Perfection
Pop the baking dish in the oven and let it bake for 30 to 35 minutes. You’ll know it’s ready when the tomatoes have started to burst and caramelize, and the feta turns beautifully golden and soft. This step fills your kitchen with the most heavenly aroma—it’s hard not to sneak a taste straight from the pan!
Step 4: Cook the Pasta
While the tomatoes and feta are baking, cook your chosen pasta according to the package instructions until al dente. Don’t forget to scoop out about half a cup of the pasta water before draining—this starchy liquid will help loosen and enrich your sauce later on.
Step 5: Combine Into Creamy Goodness
Once you remove the baking dish from the oven, grab a spoon and mash the roasted feta and tomatoes together until it forms a thick, creamy sauce. Add the hot pasta directly into the baking dish, pour in a splash of reserved pasta water, and stir until every noodle is coated in that velvety goodness. Fold in the fresh basil, and if you’d like, shower the top with plenty of grated Parmesan.
How to Serve Baked Feta Pasta Recipe with Cherry Tomatoes
Garnishes
Fresh basil is a classic finishing touch, lending a pop of color and flavor that wakes up the whole dish. You can also sprinkle on extra crushed red pepper for heat, or a generous dusting of Parmesan for even more cheesy luxury. A drizzle of high-quality olive oil just before serving adds an extra layer of richness—delicious!
Side Dishes
This pasta shines as the centerpiece, but it pairs beautifully with simple salads like arugula with a lemon vinaigrette or roasted vegetables for a balanced meal. Add some toasted garlic bread to soak up every last bit of sauce, or serve alongside marinated olives to lean into the Mediterranean vibe.
Creative Ways to Present
Try serving the Baked Feta Pasta Recipe with Cherry Tomatoes family-style in the same dish you baked it in for a rustic, inviting look. Portion it into individual bowls and top each with extra herbs and cheese, or toss in a handful of sautéed spinach or grilled chicken for a heartier twist. Layer the pasta in mason jars for a cute picnic or lunchbox option!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you’re lucky enough to have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. The flavors continue to develop overnight, making each reheated serving extra savory and satisfying.
Freezing
While it’s best enjoyed fresh, Baked Feta Pasta Recipe with Cherry Tomatoes can be frozen if needed. Let the pasta cool completely, portion it into freezer-safe containers, and freeze for up to two months. Note that the texture of the feta and tomatoes may change slightly upon thawing but will still deliver that irresistible flavor.
Reheating
For best results, reheat leftovers gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of water or milk to restore creaminess. Stir well while warming to help the sauce emulsify and evenly coat every bite of pasta. Finish with fresh basil or Parmesan to revive the dish.
FAQs
Can I use crumbled feta instead of a block?
While you can use crumbled feta in a pinch, a block of feta melts more evenly and results in that signature creamy sauce that defines the Baked Feta Pasta Recipe with Cherry Tomatoes.
Which pasta shapes work best for this dish?
Penne, rotini, or fusilli are excellent because their grooves grab onto the sauce, but feel free to experiment with any short pasta you love—the real secret is making sure it gets coated in all that cheesy tomato goodness!
How can I add protein to this recipe?
For extra heartiness, stir in cooked chicken, shrimp, or even chickpeas just before finishing the dish. They’ll soak up the flavors and add a satisfying boost of protein without complicating the recipe.
Are there gluten-free options for this pasta?
Absolutely! Swap in your favorite gluten-free pasta to make this dinner welcoming for everyone. The sauce works beautifully with any shape or style you choose.
Can I make this dish vegan?
If you’d like to make it plant-based, try using a vegan feta alternative and skip the Parmesan or use a plant-based cheese. The core flavors and textures of the Baked Feta Pasta Recipe with Cherry Tomatoes will still shine!
Final Thoughts
I can’t recommend the Baked Feta Pasta Recipe with Cherry Tomatoes enough—it’s comforting, unfussy, and endlessly adaptable! Whether you’re new to this internet sensation or already a fan, it’s sure to become a repeat favorite. So gather your ingredients, pour yourself a glass of something nice, and get ready to savor every creamy, tangy, flavor-packed bite!
Print
Baked Feta Pasta Recipe with Cherry Tomatoes Recipe
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Indulge in the viral trend of Baked Feta Pasta with Cherry Tomatoes! This easy vegetarian dish features a creamy blend of roasted cherry tomatoes, feta cheese, and pasta, creating a flavorful and comforting meal that’s perfect for any night of the week.
Ingredients
Ingredients:
- 2 pints cherry tomatoes
- 8 ounces block feta cheese
- ¼ cup extra virgin olive oil
- 3 garlic cloves (minced)
- ½ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- 10 ounces pasta (such as penne or rotini)
- ¼ cup chopped fresh basil
- Optional grated Parmesan for serving
Instructions
- Preheat the oven: Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Prepare the baking dish: In a large baking dish, add the cherry tomatoes and place the block of feta cheese in the center.
- Season and bake: Drizzle with olive oil, sprinkle with minced garlic, red pepper flakes, salt, and black pepper. Bake for 30–35 minutes until tomatoes burst and feta is golden.
- Cook the pasta: Cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve ½ cup of pasta water, then drain.
- Combine ingredients: Mash feta and tomatoes together, add cooked pasta and a splash of reserved water, stir until well combined. Mix in fresh basil.
- Serve: Top with grated Parmesan if desired and serve warm.
Notes
- You can use crumbled feta for a different texture.
- Enhance with spinach, olives, or cooked chicken for added flavor.
- Whole wheat or gluten-free pasta can be used as substitutes.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Mediterranean
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bowl
- Calories: 460
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 580mg
- Fat: 22g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Unsaturated Fat: 13g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 48g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 14g
- Cholesterol: 35mg
