You’ll love this baked feta pasta creamy, flavorful, and perfect for your Christmas dinner. With its warm, comforting flavors, this dish is sure to impress your festive guests.
Table of Contents
Baked Feta Pasta Recipe
Ingredients and Substitutions
- 8 ounces cavatappi pasta (or any pasta of choice)
- 2 pints cherry tomatoes
- 8 ounce block feta cheese
- ½ cup extra virgin olive oil
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- ¼ cup fresh basil, packed and chopped (plus more for serving)
Feel free to substitute regular whole tomatoes or canned diced tomatoes for cherry tomatoes, though the latter adds a sweeter flavor. Any type of pasta can be used, including gluten-free options.
Essential Cooking Tools
- Oven-safe baking dish
- Pot for cooking pasta
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Knife and cutting board
How to Make Baked Feta Pasta
Step-by-Step Instructions
Begin by preheating your oven to 400°F. In an oven-safe baking dish, combine the cherry tomatoes with olive oil, salt, and pepper, tossing to mix well. Then, position the feta block in the center of the dish, turning it a few times to coat it with the oil and seasoning.
Bake for 35 minutes, until the tomatoes burst and the feta melts into a creamy delight. Meanwhile, cook the pasta in salted water according to package directions until al dente. Drain it, saving ½ cup of the cooking water.
Once the baking is complete, remove the dish from the oven and add the minced garlic and basil to the tomatoes and feta, mixing everything together. Next, add the cooked pasta to the baking dish and stir to combine. Garnish with additional basil and serve warm.
Tips for Perfect Baked Feta Pasta
Ingredient Variations
For a unique twist, consider using crumbled feta or even goat cheese instead of the block feta. Different pasta shapes also work beautifully for this recipe.
Cooking Techniques
Be sure to watch the feta closely as it bakes; it should be golden and creamy but not overly browned. The tomatoes should be bursting with juices, creating a delightful sauce.
Serving Suggestions
This dish pairs wonderfully with a fresh green salad or some crusty bread to soak up the delicious sauce. For added flair, sprinkle some red pepper flakes for a hint of spice or enjoy it alongside Sheet Pan Greek Chicken for a complete meal.
What to Cook Next
- Sun Dried Tomato Pasta
- Creamy Sun Dried Tomato Pasta
- Mediterranean Chicken Zucchini
- Honey Feta Sweet Potato Rounds
FAQs
What is baked feta pasta?
Baked feta pasta is a simple pasta dish that combines baked feta cheese and cherry tomatoes, creating a creamy, flavorful sauce that is tossed with cooked pasta.
What is Greek baked feta called?
Greek baked feta is often referred to as ‘baked feta,’ and it’s a popular dish in Mediterranean cuisine.
How to cook feta cheese pasta?
To cook feta cheese pasta, bake a block of feta with cherry tomatoes and seasonings, then mix with cooked pasta for a creamy, delicious meal.
Who started the baked feta pasta trend?
The baked feta pasta trend gained popularity through social media, especially TikTok, where many users showcased their unique takes on the dish.
Conclusion
This baked feta pasta is not only a delightful option for your Christmas dinner but also makes for a wonderful dish to share at gatherings. For more delicious recipes, be sure to check out our ideas on Pinterest. Enjoy the creamy goodness and festive spirit with every bite!
Baked Feta Pasta: A Delightfully Easy Holiday Treat
Equipment
- oven-safe baking dish
- pot for cooking pasta
- colander for draining pasta
Ingredients
- 8 ounces cavatappi pasta (or any pasta of choice)
- 2 pints cherry tomatoes
- 8 ounces block feta cheese
- ½ cup extra virgin olive oil
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- ¼ cup fresh basil, packed and chopped plus more for serving
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 400°F and combine cherry tomatoes with olive oil, salt, and pepper in a baking dish.
- Place the feta block in the center of the dish and coat it with the oil and seasoning.
- Bake for 35 minutes until the tomatoes burst and the feta melts.
- Cook the pasta in salted water until al dente, then drain and save ½ cup of the cooking water.
- Mix minced garlic and basil into the baked tomatoes and feta.
- Add the cooked pasta to the baking dish and stir to combine, garnishing with additional basil before serving.