Baked Feta Pasta with Cherry Tomatoes

Name: Baked Feta Pasta with Cherry Tomatoes
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 40 min
Cuisine: Mediterranean
Ingredients: 8 oz penne pasta; 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved; 8 oz feta cheese; 3 tbsp olive oil; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes; Salt and pepper to taste; Fresh basil leaves for garnish

Published: September 11, 2025

by Sarah Connor

Why You'll Love This Recipe

This baked feta pasta is incredibly easy to prepare, making weeknight dinners a breeze
Its delightful flavors create an unforgettable experience for your taste buds
Visually stunning with vibrant colors, it makes an impressive centerpiece for any meal
Enjoy it as a main course or side dish; its versatility knows no bounds

I remember the first time I served this to my friends; their eyes lit up like kids on Christmas morning when they took that first bite.

Essential Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

Feta Cheese: Opt for high-quality feta; it melts beautifully and adds richness to the sauce.
Cherry Tomatoes: Choose ripe, juicy tomatoes for maximum sweetness and flavor.
Pasta: Any short pasta works well; I usually prefer penne for its sauce-hugging capabilities.
Olive Oil: Use extra virgin olive oil to enhance the flavor profile of your baked dish.
Garlic: Fresh garlic will infuse the entire dish with aromatic goodness; avoid pre-minced varieties if possible. For more inspiration, check out this fresh herbed tuna salad recipe.
Basil: Fresh basil leaves add a pop of color and freshness that brightens each bite.
Red Pepper Flakes: A pinch adds a delightful kick; adjust based on your spice tolerance.

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

Let’s Make it Together

Preheat Your Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Grab an oven-safe baking dish and drizzle some olive oil at the bottom to prevent sticking.

Add Cherry Tomatoes: Pour in those luscious cherry tomatoes, ensuring they’re evenly spread out so they roast beautifully. Drizzle them generously with more olive oil.

Season Generously: Sprinkle salt, pepper, minced garlic, and red pepper flakes over the tomatoes. Toss everything together until well coated; let those flavors mingle!

Nestle Feta Cheese: Create a cozy spot in the center of the baking dish for your block of feta cheese. Surround it with those fragrant tomatoes like they’re hosting a cheese party.

Bake Away: Slide your baking dish into the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes until everything is bubbly and golden brown. The aroma will have you drooling!

Cook Your Pasta: While everything bakes away merrily in the oven, cook your pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve some pasta water before draining!

Combine It All: Once out of the oven, crush those roasted tomatoes gently with a fork, then mix in your cooked pasta along with fresh basil. enjoy with roasted tomato soup Add reserved pasta water if needed for creaminess.

Serve Warm: Plate up the heavenly concoction while it’s still warm and watch everyone dive in like it’s their last meal on Earth! Enjoy every cheesy bite.

Now you have all the steps you need to create this crowd-pleasing baked feta pasta with cherry tomatoes! Happy cooking! For more inspiration, check out this chicken sausages with zucchini recipe.

You Must Know

This baked feta pasta with cherry tomatoes is not just a recipe; it’s a culinary revelation
The creamy feta combined with juicy tomatoes creates a comforting dish that feels like a warm hug
It’s simple enough for weeknight dinners yet elegant enough for guests

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Start by roasting the tomatoes with olive oil and garlic, then add the feta. While they bake, cook your pasta so everything comes together seamlessly.

Add Your Touch

Feel free to swap cherry tomatoes for sun-dried ones or add fresh basil for an extra flavor boost. A sprinkle of chili flakes can also kick up the heat!

Storing & Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat gently in the oven or microwave to maintain creaminess.

Chef's Helpful Tips

This baked feta pasta with cherry tomatoes is best enjoyed fresh but still delicious as leftovers
Ensure you use high-quality feta for maximum flavor and creaminess
Watch the cooking time closely to prevent overcooking the pasta

Sharing this dish at dinner parties has become a delightful tradition; friends rave about how easy it is and how they feel like gourmet chefs whipping it up!

FAQ

How long does baked feta pasta take to prepare?

It takes about 30 minutes from start to finish, making it perfect for busy nights.

Can I use other types of cheese in this recipe?

Yes, goat cheese or ricotta can substitute feta for different flavors and textures.

What if I want to make this dish vegan?

Replace feta with tofu or cashew cheese, and ensure your pasta is egg-free.

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📖 Recipe Card