Baked Feta Pasta

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Baked Feta Pasta is a viral sensation for good reason—creamy, tangy, and bursting with flavor, it comes together with minimal ingredients and effort. A block of feta cheese is baked with cherry tomatoes until soft and caramelized, then mixed with pasta for a lusciously rich and satisfying dish. It’s the perfect quick dinner for busy weeknights or casual gatherings.

ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

feta cheese (block, not crumbled)
cherry tomatos
olive oil
garlic cloves
dried oregano
salt
black pepper
fresh basil
pasta of choice (penne, rotini, or spaghetti work well)

directions

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).

In a baking dish, add cherry tomatoes, whole garlic cloves, olive oil, salt, pepper, and oregano. Toss to coat evenly.

Place the block of feta in the center of the dish and drizzle with a bit more olive oil.

Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until the tomatoes burst and the feta is golden and soft.

Meanwhile, cook the pasta according to package directions. Reserve some pasta water before draining.

Remove the baking dish from the oven and mash the feta and tomatoes with a fork or spoon until creamy.

Add the cooked pasta to the dish and mix well, adding reserved pasta water a little at a time for a smoother sauce.

Stir in chopped fresh basil just before serving.

Servings and timing

This recipe serves approximately 4 people.
Preparation time: 10 minutes
Baking time: 35 minutes
Cooking pasta: 10 minutes
Total time: 45-50 minutes

Variations

Add baby spinach or arugula for a leafy green twist.
Stir in cooked chicken or shrimp for extra protein.
Use crumbled goat cheese if you don’t have feta.
Try roasted red peppers or olives for Mediterranean flair.

storage/reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.
Reheat in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of water or milk to restore creaminess.
Not recommended for freezing due to dairy content separating upon thawing.

FAQs

Can I use crumbled feta?

Block feta is recommended because it melts and caramelizes better than pre-crumbled versions.

Is this dish spicy?

No, but you can add red pepper flakes for a bit of heat.

Can I make it vegan?

Use a plant-based feta alternative and skip the cheese garnish.

What type of pasta works best?

Short pasta like rotini or penne hold the sauce well, but spaghetti also works.

Can I add vegetables?

Yes, zucchini, mushrooms, or bell peppers roast well with the tomatoes.

Does it matter if I use grape tomatoes?

Grape tomatoes are a fine substitute for cherry tomatoes.

Can I use dried basil?

Fresh basil is preferred for brightness, but dried basil can be used in a pinch.

Can I make it gluten-free?

Yes, use your favorite gluten-free pasta.

What if I don’t like feta?

Try ricotta, cream cheese, or even mascarpone for a milder flavor.

How do I make it less salty?

Use low-sodium feta and don’t over-salt the pasta water.

Conclusion

Baked Feta Pasta is the ultimate easy comfort food with bold flavor and creamy texture in every bite. It’s simple, customizable, and endlessly satisfying—perfect for a no-fuss dinner that tastes gourmet.

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