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To make the best Baked Feta Pasta, gather these simple ingredients: - 200g feta cheese, block - 300g pasta (penne or fusilli) - 2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved - 4 cloves garlic, finely minced - 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil - 1 teaspoon dried oregano - 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional) - Salt and pepper, to taste - Fresh basil leaves, for garnishing - Grated Parmesan cheese, for serving (optional) Each ingredient plays a key role in creating a dish that bursts with flavor. The feta cheese melts into a creamy delight. The cherry tomatoes become sweet and juicy when baked. Garlic adds depth, while olive oil helps everything blend. You can make this dish with ease. Grab your favorite pasta type, and don't forget the basil. It adds a fresh touch that brightens the meal. For the full recipe, follow the steps in the next section. First, preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). This step is key. Preheating helps cook your dish evenly. If you skip this, your feta and tomatoes may not bake well. Next, grab a large baking dish. Mix 2 cups of halved cherry tomatoes and 4 cloves of minced garlic in the dish. Drizzle 1/4 cup of olive oil over the top. Then, sprinkle 1 teaspoon of dried oregano and some salt and pepper. Toss everything gently. This ensures the tomatoes soak up all the flavors. Now, make a space in the center and place the block of feta cheese there. Drizzle a little more olive oil on top of the feta and add a pinch of salt and pepper. Place the dish in the oven and bake for about 30 minutes. Look for the tomatoes to burst and the feta to turn golden. This is where the magic happens. While the feta and tomatoes bake, fill a large pot with salted water and bring it to a boil. Add 300g of pasta. I recommend penne or fusilli. Cook according to the package instructions until it’s al dente. This usually takes around 8-10 minutes. Once done, drain the pasta and set it aside. After baking, take the dish out. Use a fork to mash the baked feta and tomatoes together. This creates a creamy sauce. Once mixed, add the cooked pasta directly into the baking dish. Toss everything together well. If it looks a bit dry, add a splash of the reserved pasta water. This helps coat the pasta nicely. Enjoy this simple yet tasty dinner idea! For the complete recipe, check out the Full Recipe. For the best results, choose a large baking dish. A 9x13 inch dish works great. This size allows the tomatoes to spread out and roast evenly. To achieve a creamy sauce, mash the baked feta well with the tomatoes. This creates a rich, smooth texture. If it's too thick, add some reserved pasta water. This will help loosen it up. For a lovely presentation, serve the pasta straight from the baking dish. It gives a cozy, rustic feel. You can also plate it individually for a more polished look. Pair this dish with a fresh green salad or garlic bread. A crisp white wine, like Sauvignon Blanc, complements the flavors nicely. If you can’t find feta cheese, try goat cheese or ricotta. Both options add great flavor. You can also swap out the pasta. Use spaghetti, or any pasta shape you have on hand. Each type will give a unique twist to the dish. For the full recipe, check the earlier section. Enjoy your cooking! {{image_4}} You can easily make Baked Feta Pasta more veggie-packed. Adding more vegetables boosts flavor and nutrition. Consider mixing in spinach or zucchini. - Spinach: It wilts nicely and adds a nice green color. - Zucchini: Slice it thin. It cooks quickly and blends well with feta. Fresh herbs can also change the flavor. Instead of just basil, try these: - Parsley: Adds a fresh taste. - Oregano: A classic Mediterranean flavor. If you love heat, you can spice up your dish! Adjust the heat level to your liking. Here’s how: - Use more red pepper flakes. Start with a teaspoon and add more if you want. - Try adding fresh jalapeños or sliced chili peppers. You can also explore different spices like: - Cayenne pepper: For a strong kick. - Smoked paprika: Adds a smoky flavor without too much heat. For those avoiding gluten, choose gluten-free pasta. There are many tasty options available. Good choices include: - Brown rice pasta: Chewy and satisfying. - Chickpea pasta: Packed with protein and fiber. Just remember to cook it a bit less than regular pasta. Gluten-free pasta can become mushy if overcooked. Check the package for exact cooking times. After you enjoy your Baked Feta Pasta, store any leftovers right away. Let the dish cool to room temperature first. Use an airtight container to keep it fresh. This will help prevent it from drying out. I recommend glass containers for easy reheating. To reheat the pasta, you can use the oven or microwave. If using the oven, preheat it to 350°F (175°C). Place the pasta in a baking dish and cover it with foil. This keeps moisture in. Heat for about 15 minutes. If using the microwave, cover the bowl with a lid. Heat in short bursts, stirring in between. This helps avoid dry spots. Yes, you can freeze Baked Feta Pasta! To freeze, let it cool completely. Then, portion it into freezer-safe containers. Make sure to leave some space for expansion. To thaw, take it out a day before and place it in the fridge. Reheat it as mentioned above for the best results. Baked feta pasta is a simple dish made with feta cheese, pasta, and tomatoes. You bake the feta and tomatoes together, creating a creamy sauce. This dish became popular on social media for its ease and taste. It brings together fresh flavors with a rich, cheesy texture. Baked feta pasta lasts about 3 to 5 days in the fridge. Make sure to store it in an airtight container. If the pasta looks dry or smells off, it’s best to toss it. Always check for mold before eating leftovers. Yes, you can use different cheeses! Cream cheese, goat cheese, or ricotta work well too. Each cheese brings its own taste. Try these options for a new twist on the dish. Just keep in mind that the creaminess may vary. Baked feta pasta has some good nutrients. Feta cheese offers protein and calcium. The tomatoes are full of vitamins. However, it can be high in calories and fat. You can make it healthier by using whole grain pasta and adding more veggies. You can prepare baked feta pasta ahead of time! Just cook and store it in the fridge before baking. When ready, bake it as directed in the full recipe. This saves time on busy days. Just remember to eat it within a few days for the best taste. Baked Feta Pasta is simple yet delicious. We covered key ingredients, easy steps, and smart tips. You can change it up to fit your taste, too. Remember, using fresh herbs and the right pasta enhances flavor. Store leftovers well to enjoy later, or even freeze them! This dish is fast to prepare and great for busy days. With a few tweaks, it can suit any meal plan. Enjoy making this comforting dish your own!

Baked Feta Pasta

Indulge in a delicious Baked Feta Pasta Delight that's sure to impress! With creamy feta, juicy cherry tomatoes, and perfectly cooked pasta, this easy recipe is a must-try for any pasta lover. Discover how simple ingredients come together for a flavorful dish that’s perfect for any night of the week.
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Ingredients
  

200g feta cheese, block

300g pasta (penne or fusilli are ideal)

2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved

4 cloves garlic, finely minced

1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil

1 teaspoon dried oregano

1 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for a kick)

Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste

Fresh basil leaves, for garnishing

Grated Parmesan cheese, for serving (optional)

Instructions
 

Begin by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C) to ensure it’s hot when you put your dish in.

    In a large baking dish, combine the halved cherry tomatoes and minced garlic. Drizzle 1/4 cup of olive oil over the top, then sprinkle with dried oregano, red pepper flakes (if using), and a generous amount of salt and pepper. Toss everything together gently to ensure the tomatoes are evenly coated in the oil and seasonings.

      Create a space in the center of the mixture and place the block of feta cheese there. Drizzle a little more olive oil over the feta, and season it lightly with salt and pepper.

        Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for about 30 minutes. You're looking for the tomatoes to burst open and the feta to become soft and golden around the edges.

          While your feta and tomatoes are baking away, bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Add the pasta and cook it according to package instructions until it reaches that perfect al dente texture. Once cooked, drain it in a colander and set aside.

            Once the baking time is complete, remove the dish from the oven. Using a fork, gently mash the baked feta into the burst tomatoes, mixing them together to form a creamy sauce.

              Add the cooked pasta directly into the baking dish. Toss everything together thoroughly, ensuring the pasta is well coated in the creamy sauce. If the mixture seems a bit dry, add a splash of the reserved pasta water to loosen it up.

                Serve hot, garnished with fresh basil leaves for a burst of color and flavor. For an extra touch, sprinkle with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.

                  Prep Time, Total Time, Servings: 10 minutes | 40 minutes | 4 servings

                    - Presentation Tips: Serve the pasta directly from the baking dish for a rustic look, or portion onto individual plates for a more refined presentation. Enjoy!