Baked Feta Pasta has taken the internet by storm and is often referred to as the “TikTok pasta.” When you watch the video tutorial, you’ll be astounded at how the feta cheese transforms into a luscious pasta sauce.
We have a fondness for uncomplicated pasta casseroles, from Baked Ziti to Chicken Tetrazzini, not to mention the timeless Classic Lasagna. If you are a fan of pasta recipes, this Baked Feta Pasta is a must-try.
Table of Contents
What exactly is Baked Feta Pasta?
Baked Feta pasta is a clever method to whip up a delectable pasta sauce. You simply bake a block of feta in a casserole dish along with tomatoes, garlic, extra virgin olive oil, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Once the tomatoes burst and the cheese starts to melt, you take it out of the oven and mash the cheese into a creamy pasta sauce that beautifully combines with the olive oil and juicy tomatoes.
In our version of this Baked Creamy Feta pasta, we’ve added a twist with asparagus, which my daughter adores, and those irresistible roasted tomatoes that my son can’t get enough of.
The History of Feta Pasta
The Baked Feta pasta sensation began back in 2019 thanks to the creativity of Tiiu Piret and Liemessa, two Finnish bloggers. Liemessa’s recipe later made its way to the United States through Grilled Cheese Social, where it took TikTok by storm and became a massive trend.
Tools for this recipe
Recipe Video:
Ingredients:
- 8 ounces (about 225g) cherry tomatoes
- 8 ounces (about 225g) feta cheese block
- 1/4 cup extra-virgin olive oil
- 3-4 cloves of garlic, minced
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (modify according to personal taste)
- To taste, season with salt and freshly ground black pepper.
- 10-12 ounces (about 300-350g) your favorite pasta (such as penne or spaghetti)
- Fresh basil leaves, for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
Step 1: Preheat Your Oven
Begin by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C).
Step 2: Prepare the Baking Dish
Take an oven-safe baking dish and add the cherry tomatoes. Drizzle about 2 tablespoons of olive oil over the tomatoes, season them with a pinch of salt and some freshly ground black pepper. Give them a gentle toss to coat them evenly.
Step 3: Add the Feta
Place the whole block of feta cheese right in the middle of the tomatoes. Drizzle another 2 tablespoons of olive oil over the feta. Sprinkle the minced garlic and red pepper flakes on top of the cheese.
Step 4: Bake It
Transfer the baking dish to the preheated oven and let it bake for about 30-35 minutes, or until the tomatoes burst, and the feta turns golden brown and starts to melt.
Step 5: Cook the Pasta
While the feta and tomatoes are baking, cook your pasta according to the package instructions until it’s al dente. Drain it and set it aside.
Step 6: Combine the Ingredients
Once the feta and tomatoes are out of the oven, use a fork to gently mash and mix them together until you have a creamy, flavourful sauce. Add the cooked pasta to the dish and toss everything together, ensuring the pasta is well coated with the creamy tomato and feta sauce.
Step 7: Garnish and Serve
Finish off with a drizzle of the remaining olive oil and some torn fresh basil leaves for a burst of flavor and color. Serve your creamy baked feta pasta hot, and enjoy.
Pro Tip:
If you’d like to make the pasta creamier or have more sauce, simply add some hot pasta water until you achieve your desired consistency. If the water cools down, you can quickly reheat it in the microwave until it’s piping hot.
Nutrition Facts (Per Serving):
| Nutrition | Amount per Serving |
| Calories | Approximately 500-600 calories per serving (portion size may vary). |
| Total Fat | About 30-35 grams per serving, depending on ingredient choices. |
| Saturated Fat | Approximately 8-12 grams per serving. |
| Cholesterol | Around 30-40 milligrams per serving. |
| Sodium | Approximately 400-500 milligrams per serving. |
| Total Carbohydrates | Roughly 40-45 grams per serving. |
| Dietary Fiber | Typically, 2-3 grams per serving. |
| Sugars | Varies, but usually less than 5 grams per serving. |
| Protein | Approximately 10-12 grams per serving. |
Health Benefits and Considerations:
- Balance: Enjoy this creamy baked feta pasta as part of a balanced diet.
- Portion Sizes: Serving sizes may vary, so adjust accordingly to meet your nutritional needs.
- Variations: Customize the recipe with whole-grain pasta or additional vegetables for added nutrients.
- Sodium: Be mindful of sodium content, especially if you have high blood pressure or dietary restrictions. Consider using lower-sodium options or reducing added salt.
- Moderation: While this dish offers delightful Flavors, consume it in moderation, especially if you’re mindful of calorie intake.
- Tomatoes: Rich in vitamins and antioxidants, tomatoes provide vitamin C, potassium, and lycopene, which may have various health benefits.
- Feta Cheese: While delicious, feta cheese should be enjoyed in moderation due to its saturated fat and sodium content.
- Olive Oil: A source of healthy monounsaturated fats, olive oil may contribute to heart health when consumed in appropriate amounts.
- Garlic: Known for its potential health benefits, garlic may have anti-inflammatory and immune-boosting properties.
- Red Pepper Flakes: These add a spicy kick and may help boost metabolism and reduce appetite in some individuals.
- Pasta: Provides carbohydrates, a primary energy source. Consider choosing whole-grain pasta for an extra dose of fiber and nutrients.
- Basil Leaves: A touch of fresh basil adds flavor and may provide small amounts of vitamins and antioxidants.
Remember that nutritional values can vary based on ingredient choices and portion sizes. It’s essential to adapt the recipe to your dietary requirements and preferences. Enjoy your homemade Baked Feta Pasta.
Storage and Reheating Guide:
Storage Instructions:
- For any remaining Baked Feta Pasta, place it in an airtight container and store it in the refrigerator.
- To maintain freshness and flavor, consume within 2-3 days.
Reheating Tips:
Microwave Method:
- Spoon your desired serving of Baked Feta Pasta into a microwave-safe dish.
- Simply cover it with a lid that’s safe for the microwave or use a moist paper towel.
- Reheat in short 30-second intervals on medium heat, stirring between each interval.
- Ensure it’s evenly heated before serving.
Oven Method:
- Preheat your oven to a low to medium temperature (around 300°F or 150°C).
- Move the pasta to a dish that can go in the oven, and wrap it up with aluminum foil.
- Heat in the oven until warmed through, stirring occasionally.
- This method helps maintain the pasta’s delightful texture.
Stovetop Method:
- Warm a non-stick pan over medium heat.
- Place the pasta in the pan and add a splash of water or olive oil to prevent sticking.
- Stir occasionally until the pasta is evenly heated.
- Adjust the heat to avoid overcooking.
Pro Tips:
- To restore creaminess, consider adding a bit of olive oil or hot pasta water if the pasta appears dry after reheating.
- When using hot pasta water, add it gradually until you achieve your desired consistency.
- Avoid overcooking during reheating to preserve the dish’s quality and texture.
Unique Twist for Leftovers:
Transform your leftovers into a pasta bake by placing them in an oven-safe dish, topping with a sprinkle of cheese, and baking until bubbly and golden. It’s a delightful way to enjoy your Baked Feta Pasta with a new twist.
Serve With
We enjoy serving Baked Feta Pasta as the main course alongside lean proteins and these easy-to-make side dishes:
- Caesar Salad
- Greek Salad
- Cucumber Tomato Feta Salad
- Garlic Bread
FAQ’s
Q. What is baked feta pasta?
Baked feta pasta is a popular dish where a block of feta cheese is baked with tomatoes, garlic, and olive oil until creamy and melted. Then, it’s tossed with cooked pasta to create a rich, tangy, and flavorful sauce.
Q. Can I use a different cheese instead of feta?
While feta is the key ingredient, you can try other cheeses like goat cheese or ricotta for a different flavor. However, feta gives the dish its signature tanginess and creaminess, so substitutions might slightly alter the taste.
Q. How do I bake the feta for baked feta pasta?
To bake the feta, place a block of feta cheese in a baking dish along with cherry tomatoes, garlic, olive oil, and any herbs or seasonings you like. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and bake for about 30 minutes, or until the feta is soft and slightly golden. Once it’s done, simply toss it all together with your cooked pasta.
Q. Can I use a different pasta for this recipe?
Absolutely, you can use any pasta you like, whether it’s penne, rigatoni, or spaghetti. Just make sure to choose a pasta that can hold up nicely when mixed with the creamy feta sauce.
Q. How can I make this dish vegetarian or vegan?
To make this dish vegetarian, simply follow the recipe as is. For a vegan version, you can use a plant-based feta or a creamy vegan cheese substitute, and replace regular pasta with a gluten-free or whole grain variety if desired.
Q. Can I make baked feta pasta ahead of time?
Yes, you can prep the feta and tomatoes ahead of time and store them in the fridge until you’re ready to bake. When it’s time to serve, just pop the feta mixture in the oven and bake, then toss it with your cooked pasta. It’s a simple and convenient meal to make in advance.
