The aroma wafting from the oven is enough to make anyone weak in the knees. Imagine a creamy pool of melted feta enveloping sweet, juicy cherry tomatoes, all lovingly tossed with al dente pasta. This is not just dinner; it’s an experience that transports you to a sun-drenched terrace in Italy.
As I stirred the ingredients for my latest obsession—baked feta pasta with cherry tomatoes—I could practically hear my taste buds singing. It’s the kind of dish that feels fancy but requires minimal effort. Perfect for impressing guests or simply treating yourself after a long day.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- This baked feta pasta is incredibly easy to prepare and full of flavor.
- The bright colors make it visually appealing and a crowd-pleaser.
- It’s versatile enough to suit different dietary needs while still being delicious.
- Plus, it’s ready in under an hour!
My cousin once claimed she could taste heaven when she tried this dish at my place; I’m pretty sure she wasn’t exaggerating!
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
- Baked Feta Cheese: Choose a block of high-quality feta for the best melting results.
- Cherry Tomatoes: Go for vibrant red ones; they should be firm and glossy.
- Pasta (any shape): Use your favorite type, such as penne or rotini for better sauce adherence.
- Olive Oil: Extra virgin olive oil adds richness; don’t skimp on quality here.
- Fresh Basil: Use fresh basil for finishing touches; it brightens up the entire dish!
- Garlic Cloves: Fresh garlic enhances flavors—avoid pre-minced varieties if possible.
- Salt and Pepper: Essential seasonings to elevate flavors; always go for freshly cracked pepper.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
Let’s Make it together
Preheat & Prep Your Oven: Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking dish with parchment paper for easy cleanup—trust me, future you will thank present you.
Combine Ingredients in Baking Dish: In your prepared baking dish, toss together cherry tomatoes, olive oil, minced garlic, salt, and pepper until everything is coated nicely. The smell will start getting irresistible—you have been warned.
Add Feta Like a Boss: Place the block of feta cheese right in the center of your tomato medley. Drizzle it lightly with olive oil because we’re fancy like that.
Bake Away!: Pop your baking dish into the oven for 30 minutes or until the tomatoes burst and the feta turns golden and bubbly. You’ll know it’s done when your kitchen smells like an Italian restaurant.
Pasta Party Time!: While everything bakes away happily in the oven, cook your chosen pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Don’t forget to reserve some pasta water before draining—it’s liquid gold!
Mix It All Together: Once your feta-tomato masterpiece comes out of the oven (try not to drool), mash everything together gently with a fork. Add cooked pasta along with reserved water as needed until creamy perfection is achieved.
Now serve this beauty topped with fresh basil leaves! You’re officially ready to impress everyone around you—just don’t forget to take pictures before diving in!
This baked feta pasta with cherry tomatoes is not just a meal; it’s an event! It’s perfect for weeknight dinners or weekend gatherings where everyone wants something delicious yet simple. Enjoy every cheesy bite!
You Must Know
- Baked feta pasta with cherry tomatoes is a delightful dish that combines creamy feta with juicy tomatoes.
- This recipe is perfect for weeknight dinners and can be made in just one pan, making clean-up a breeze.
- The vibrant colors and flavors will brighten any table!
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by roasting the cherry tomatoes and feta together at 400°F for about 30 minutes. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully, creating a creamy sauce while cooking your pasta separately.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap out cherry tomatoes for other veggies like zucchini or bell peppers. You can also sprinkle fresh basil, oregano, or red pepper flakes for added flavor!
Storing & Reheating
Store leftover baked feta pasta in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat gently in the microwave or on the stovetop, adding a splash of olive oil if needed.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- For perfect baked feta pasta, ensure your tomatoes are fresh and ripe for maximum flavor.
- Stir the mixture well before serving to distribute the creamy feta evenly.
- Don’t forget to taste and adjust seasonings as you go; it makes all the difference!
Sometimes, I think my friends love this dish more than I do! At a recent dinner party, they devoured it faster than I could say “baked feta pasta with cherry tomatoes,” leaving me wondering if I should have made a double batch.
FAQ
How long does it take to prepare baked feta pasta with cherry tomatoes?
Preparation takes about 10 minutes, while cooking time is approximately 30 minutes.
Can I use regular tomatoes instead of cherry tomatoes?
Yes, but cherry tomatoes provide sweetness and juiciness that enhance the dish.
Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?
Absolutely! It stores well and tastes great reheated throughout the week.
Baked Feta Pasta with Cherry Tomatoes
Baked feta pasta with cherry tomatoes is a creamy, flavorful dish that effortlessly combines rich feta and sweet roasted tomatoes for a delightful meal perfect for any occasion.
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
Ingredients
- 8 oz pasta (penne or rotini)
- 8 oz block of feta cheese
- 2 cups cherry tomatoes
- 3 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh basil leaves for garnish
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking dish with parchment paper.
- In the baking dish, combine cherry tomatoes, 2 tablespoons of olive oil, minced garlic, salt, and pepper. Toss until well coated.
- Place the feta cheese in the center and drizzle with the remaining olive oil.
- Bake for 30 minutes until the tomatoes burst and the feta is golden.
- Meanwhile, cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve some pasta water before draining.
- After baking, mash the feta and tomatoes together with a fork. Mix in the cooked pasta and add reserved water as needed for creaminess.
- Serve topped with fresh basil leaves.
Notes
- For added flavor, consider mixing in vegetables like zucchini or bell peppers.
- Experiment with herbs such as oregano or a pinch of red pepper flakes for an extra kick.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (245g)
- Calories: 460
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 740mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 56g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 16g
- Cholesterol: 35mg
