Easy Baked Feta Pasta

Description

Easy Baked Feta Pasta

This viral sensation took the internet by storm in 2021! Originally made popular on TikTok, this Easy Baked Feta Pasta combines simple ingredients into a rich and creamy dish. Made with just feta cheese, cherry tomatoes, garlic, and spinach, it’s perfect for a weeknight dinner when you’re short on time but still want big flavors. Trust us, you’ll love this quick and easy recipe!

3 tbsp olive oil
4 cups cherry tomatoes
6 cloves garlic, peeled
Salt & pepper, to taste
8 oz feta cheese
1 tsp Italian seasoning
2 cups fresh baby spinach
1/2 lb small shell pasta
1/2-1 cup pasta water

Directions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F.
2. Add olive oil, tomatoes, garlic, salt & pepper to a baking dish.
3. Place feta in the center, drizzle with olive oil, sprinkle seasoning. Bake for 20-25 mins.
4. Cook pasta, reserve pasta water.
5. Break up feta and tomatoes, add pasta, spinach, and pasta water. Toss.

Prep Time: 5 mins
Kcal: 400 per serving

Step-by-Step Guide

Follow these detailed instructions for perfect results every time.

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a 9×13 inch baking dish, combine 3 tablespoons of olive oil, 4 cups of cherry tomatoes, and 6 peeled garlic cloves. Season generously with salt and pepper, tossing to coat.
3. Place the 8 oz block of feta cheese in the center of the dish. Drizzle it with a little extra olive oil and sprinkle 1 teaspoon of Italian seasoning over the top.
4. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the tomatoes have burst and the feta is soft and slightly golden on top.
5. While the dish bakes, cook 1/2 lb of small shell pasta (or your preferred shape) in salted boiling water until al dente. Reserve at least 1 cup of the starchy pasta water before draining.
6. Remove the baking dish from the oven. Immediately add 2 cups of fresh baby spinach. Use a fork or spoon to smash the tomatoes and stir the melted feta into a creamy sauce.
7. Add the drained pasta and about 1/2 cup of the reserved pasta water. Toss vigorously, adding more pasta water as needed to create a smooth, creamy sauce that coats every piece of pasta.
8. Taste and adjust seasoning with additional salt, pepper, or a pinch of red pepper flakes if desired. Serve immediately.

Serving Suggestions

This versatile pasta is a complete meal on its own, but can be easily elevated. Serve it with a side of crusty garlic bread for dipping into the creamy sauce. For added protein, top with grilled chicken, shrimp, or white beans. A simple arugula salad with a lemon vinaigrette provides a fresh, peppery contrast to the rich pasta.

How-to Summary

Roast tomatoes and garlic with a block of feta cheese. Once baked, mash everything into a creamy sauce, then toss with cooked pasta, fresh spinach, and reserved pasta water until perfectly combined.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use crumbled feta instead of a block?
No. A solid block is essential as it melts slowly into a creamy sauce. Pre-crumbled feta contains anti-caking agents and will not melt properly.

How can I make this dish more flavorful?
Add fresh basil or parsley after baking. For a kick, include red pepper flakes before roasting. A squeeze of fresh lemon juice at the end brightens the entire dish.

What pasta shapes work best?
Short shapes like shells, penne, rigatoni, or orecchiette are ideal as they capture the sauce. Long pasta like spaghetti also works well.

Can I add other vegetables?
Absolutely. Sliced red onions, bell peppers, or zucchini roast beautifully alongside the tomatoes. Add hearty greens like kale in the last 5 minutes of baking.

How do I store and reheat leftovers?
Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a skillet with a splash of water or milk to loosen the sauce.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Using low-fat feta: Full-fat feta provides the best creamy texture and rich flavor.
• Skipping the pasta water: The starchy water is crucial for creating a silky, emulsified sauce that clings to the pasta.
• Overbaking the feta: Bake just until soft and melty. Overbaking can cause the cheese to separate and become grainy.
• Not seasoning enough: Season the tomatoes well before baking and always taste and adjust the final dish.

Conclusion

This Easy Baked Feta Pasta truly lives up to its viral fame. With minimal prep, a handful of ingredients, and one baking dish, you can create a restaurant-quality, creamy pasta that is both comforting and impressive. Its simplicity and incredible flavor make it a recipe you’ll return to again and again for a guaranteed crowd-pleasing meal.