Baked Feta Pasta – The Creamy, Tangy Viral Recipe You Need to Try
If you haven’t hopped on the baked feta pasta trend yet, now’s the time! This simple yet outrageously delicious recipe took the internet by storm for a reason—minimal effort, maximum flavor. Creamy, tangy feta cheese bakes with juicy cherry tomatoes and garlic, then gets tossed with al dente pasta for a dish that’s rich, comforting, and totally addictive. Whether you’re a busy parent, a college student, or just craving something easy yet impressive, this baked feta pasta is your new go-to.
Ingredients
- 8 oz block of feta cheese (Greek or Danish, in brine for best flavor)
- 2 pints (about 20 oz) cherry or grape tomatoes
- 3-4 garlic cloves, minced
- 1/3 cup extra-virgin olive oil
- 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1/2 tsp salt (adjust to taste)
- 10 oz pasta (penne, rigatoni, or your favorite shape)
- Fresh basil or parsley, for garnish
| Serving Size 4-6 servings | Prep Time 10 minutes | Cook Time 35 minutes | Total Time 45 minutes |
Instructions
- Preheat & Prep – Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). In a large baking dish, add the cherry tomatoes, minced garlic, olive oil, red pepper flakes, black pepper, and salt. Toss to coat everything evenly.
- Add the Feta – Place the block of feta in the center of the baking dish, surrounded by the tomatoes. Drizzle a little more olive oil on top of the feta.
- Bake – Bake for 30-35 minutes until the tomatoes burst and the feta turns golden and soft.
- Cook the Pasta – While the feta bakes, cook your pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1/2 cup of pasta water before draining.
- Mix It Up – Once the feta and tomatoes are done, use a fork or spoon to mash everything together into a creamy sauce. Add the cooked pasta and toss well, adding a splash of pasta water if needed to loosen the sauce.
- Garnish & Serve – Top with fresh basil or parsley and enjoy immediately!
Tips for the Best Baked Feta Pasta
- Use Block Feta – Pre-crumbled feta won’t melt as smoothly. A block in brine gives the best creamy texture.
- Don’t Skip Pasta Water – The starchy water helps bind the sauce to the pasta.
- Roast Until Caramelized – Let the tomatoes burst and the feta get golden for maximum flavor.
- Add Greens – Stir in baby spinach or arugula at the end for extra freshness.
Variations to Try
- Protein Boost – Add cooked shrimp, grilled chicken, or chickpeas for extra protein.
- Veggie-Packed – Roast zucchini, bell peppers, or mushrooms alongside the tomatoes.
- Spicy Kick – Add extra red pepper flakes or a drizzle of chili oil.
- Different Cheeses – Swap feta for goat cheese or burrata for a twist.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of cheese?
While feta works best, goat cheese or even boursin can be used for a similar creamy texture.
Can I make this ahead?
The sauce can be baked ahead and stored in the fridge for 2 days, then reheated and tossed with fresh pasta.
What if my sauce is too thick?
Add more pasta water or a splash of heavy cream to thin it out.
Can I use dried herbs instead of fresh?
Yes, but fresh basil or parsley adds a brighter flavor. If using dried, add 1 tsp with the tomatoes before baking.
Related Post: Spring Vegetable Pasta Recipe
Final Thoughts
This baked feta pasta is the ultimate lazy gourmet meal—simple ingredients, minimal prep, and a result that tastes like you spent hours in the kitchen. Whether you stick to the classic version or try one of the fun variations, this dish is guaranteed to become a regular in your rotation. Happy cooking!
Pin this recipe for later and let me know in the comments—what’s your favorite pasta dish?