Baked feta pasta stands as the ultimate culinary sensation of the year, celebrated for its irresistibly creamy texture, savory depth, and the burst of sweet roasted tomatoes that create a harmonious flavor symphony. This one-pan, no-fuss recipe transforms pantry staples into an elegant yet comforting dish, perfect for a quick weeknight meal or to impress guests with minimal effort. Combining the rustic charm of slow roasted tomatoes with the luscious creaminess of baked feta, it delivers authentic Mediterranean vibes without the need for complicated techniques, ensuring every bite bursts with warmth, zest, and creaminess.
Why You’ll Love This Viral Recipe
This dish epitomizes the ‘set-it-and-forget-it’ cooking philosophy: simply roast the feta block nestled among juicy cherry tomatoes until they burst and meld their flavors into a rich sauce. Toss with your favorite pasta and garnish with bright fresh basil for an effortless weeknight dinner that tastes both indulgent and homemade. Its viral fame on TikTok and Pinterest is no surprise—the combination of the tangy cheese softened perfectly by oven heat, the sweet acidity of tomatoes, and the fresh herbs creates a sauce that is both luscious and deeply satisfying, hitting all the right notes with minimal fuss.
Ingredients
- 8 oz (225g) short pasta, such as cavatappi, penne, rotini, or macaroni—shapes that catch sauce beautifully
- 2 pints ripe cherry or grape tomatoes, washed thoroughly
- 8 oz (225g) block of high-quality feta cheese, not pre-crumbled for slow melting
- 1/2 cup extra virgin olive oil, the fruitier the better for robust flavor
- 2 cloves garlic, finely minced or pressed to infuse savory aroma
- 1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional, for gentle heat and complexity)
- 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt, adjusted after tasting for balance
- 1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper, for a slight spicy note
- Zest of 1 lemon (optional, adds fresh citrus brightness)
- Fresh basil leaves for bright, herbaceous garnish
Equipment Needed
- 2-quart or 13×9-inch oven-safe baking dish sturdy enough to hold ingredients and withstand heat
- Large pot for boiling pasta to perfect al dente
- Slotted spoon or pasta tongs for gently transferring pasta
- Measuring spoons and cups for precise seasoning and oil measurement
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Prep Ingredients
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) to ensure an optimal roasting environment where tomatoes will burst and feta will soften to creamy perfection. Arrange the cherry tomatoes in your baking dish, distributing them evenly so each tomato gets that perfect roast. Toss the tomatoes with olive oil to coat every piece generously; this not only promotes browning but also infuses the dish with rich fruitiness. Add the minced garlic, salt, black pepper, and optional red pepper flakes, tossing again to distribute seasoning evenly throughout. Gently place the whole block of feta cheese in the center of the pan, and drizzle additional olive oil over its surface for enhanced melting and flavor. Carefully nestle some tomatoes slightly around the edges of the feta to create a beautiful and cohesive baking ensemble.
2. Bake
Place the baking dish on the middle oven rack and roast uncovered for 35-40 minutes. During this time, the cherry tomatoes will soften and burst, releasing their natural sweetness and creating a luscious, rich base. The feta block will soften and develop a lightly golden crust on top, transforming into a creamy, spreadable cheese that binds the dish together. Monitor the tomatoes carefully; they should blister but not burn, maintaining a balance of sweet and savory flavors. Remove from oven when feta is golden and tomatoes are fragrant and tender.
3. Cook Pasta
While the feta and tomatoes are roasting, bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Add your choice of short pasta—cavatappi, penne, or rotini work beautifully due to their ability to hold the sauce. Cook until al dente according to package instructions, usually 9-11 minutes. Reserve 1/2 cup of the flavorful starchy pasta water before draining the pasta thoroughly. This reserved water is crucial for adjusting sauce consistency and helping it cling luxuriously to the pasta later in the process.
4. Combine and Finish
Carefully remove the hot baking dish from the oven. Immediately sprinkle the lemon zest and most of the fresh chopped basil over the bubbly tomatoes and softened feta. Using a fork and spoon, break up the feta cheese and gently stir it with the tomatoes until a creamy, rustic sauce forms. Add the freshly cooked pasta into the dish and toss thoroughly to ensure every piece is luxuriously coated in the tangy, cheesy tomato sauce. If the sauce feels too thick or sticky, gradually add reserved pasta water a tablespoon at a time until the desired silky consistency is reached, ensuring the pasta has a perfect balance of flavor and moisture.
5. Serve
Garnish the hot, creamy pasta with the remaining fresh basil leaves, a generous drizzle of extra virgin olive oil for gloss and richness, and additional freshly cracked black pepper to taste. Serve immediately on warmed plates to preserve the dish’s comforting warmth and inviting aroma. Pair this dish with crusty artisan bread for mopping up decadent sauce or a well-balanced green salad for a complete, satisfying meal reminiscent of sun-splashed Mediterranean dinners.
Pro Tips & Variations
- Add quartered shallots or minced extra garlic to the baking dish for richer flavor depth and aromatic complexity.
- Try swapping feta for creamy goat cheese or a mild brie for a decadent twist on creaminess and tang.
- Add sliced bell peppers or zucchini along with the tomatoes for extra vegetable variety and vibrant color.
- Sprinkle toasted pine nuts or freshly grated parmesan cheese over the finished pasta for added texture and umami boost.
- Use your favorite pasta shapes like penne, fusilli, or campanelle in place of cavatappi to customize texture and sauce retention.
FAQs
Can I make this with gluten-free pasta or zoodles?
Absolutely! Gluten-free pasta or spiralized zucchini (zoodles) work beautifully. Adjust cooking times accordingly as gluten-free pasta can cook faster or have different texture.
What can I use instead of feta?
Try goat cheese, brie, or a soft vegan cheese alternative if you prefer mild or dairy-free options. Each brings a unique flavor and creamy texture.
How do I store leftovers?
Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the oven with a splash of water or milk to loosen the sauce and avoid drying.
