Baked Feta Pasta Recipe: The Creamiest, Easiest Weeknight Dinner

When it comes to delicious, low-effort dinners, few dishes are as beloved (or as Instagrammable) as baked feta pasta. With its creamy, tangy sauce, roasted cherry tomatoes, and minimal prep time, it’s no surprise this viral sensation became a household favourite.

This recipe is a celebration of simplicity. Toss a handful of ingredients into a baking dish, roast them until the tomatoes burst and the feta melts, then stir it all together with cooked pasta. That’s it no fancy techniques or obscure ingredients required.

In this article, we’ll walk you through the ingredients, method, variations, and expert tips to help you master the ultimate baked feta pasta.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Minimal effort: All you need is one baking dish, one pot for pasta, and 30 minutes.
• Big flavour: The combination of salty feta, sweet roasted tomatoes, and garlic is utterly irresistible.
• Customisable: Add veggies, protein, or herbs to suit your taste.
• Instagram-worthy: It looks just as good as it tastes.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Here’s what you’ll need to make baked feta pasta at home:

• 200g cherry or baby plum tomatoes
• 1 block (around 200g) of full-fat Greek feta cheese
• 2–3 garlic cloves, peeled and crushed
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
• 200g dried pasta (penne, fusilli, or your favourite shape)
• Fresh basil or parsley leaves, for garnish
• Chilli flakes (optional)
• Reserved pasta water (optional, to loosen sauce)

How to Make Baked Feta Pasta: Step-by-Step Guide

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

Begin by preheating your oven to 200°C (fan 180°C).

Step 2: Assemble the Bake

Place the cherry tomatoes into a medium baking dish. Add the crushed garlic. Nestle the block of feta cheese right in the centre of the dish. Drizzle everything generously with olive oil, then season with salt, pepper, and chilli flakes if desired.

Step 3: Roast the Feta and Tomatoes

Bake in the preheated oven for 25–30 minutes, or until the tomatoes begin to blister and burst, and the feta softens and turns golden on top.

Step 4: Cook Your Pasta

While the feta bakes, cook your pasta according to the packet instructions in salted water. Reserve a small cup of the pasta water before draining, as this can help create a silkier sauce.

Step 5: Mix Everything Together

Remove the baking dish from the oven. Using a fork, gently mash the feta and tomatoes together into a creamy sauce. Add the drained pasta and stir everything until well combined. If the sauce feels too thick, add a little of the reserved pasta water to loosen it up.

Step 6: Garnish and Serve

Top with torn fresh basil or parsley leaves and serve hot. It’s best eaten fresh and warm straight from the oven.

Baked Feta Pasta Variations

Add Extra Vegetables

Enhance the nutritional value and texture of your pasta by stirring in:

• Roasted courgettes or bell peppers
• Sautéed spinach or kale
• Sweetcorn or peas

Make It Meaty

Craving some protein? Try one of these options:

• Grilled or shredded chicken
• Crisped pancetta or bacon
• Chopped chorizo

Go Dairy-Free

Use a vegan feta alternative to enjoy a creamy texture without the dairy. Choose a brand that melts well and isn’t overly crumbly.

Experiment with Pasta Shapes

Though short pasta like penne or fusilli works best, you can experiment with whole wheat pasta, gluten-free varieties, or even orzo for a fun twist.

Tips for the Best Baked Feta Pasta

1. Use high-quality feta: Full-fat Greek feta from sheep or goat milk will give the best texture and depth of flavour.
2. Don’t overcook the pasta: Slightly al dente pasta will hold up better when mixed with the hot sauce.
3. Roast until golden: Be patient with the oven – a bit of caramelisation on the feta and tomatoes brings out their best flavour.
4. Fresh herbs make a difference: Always add basil or parsley at the end to brighten the dish.

Serving Suggestions

Baked feta pasta is rich and satisfying on its own but pairs well with:

• A crisp green salad with vinaigrette
• Garlic bread or crusty sourdough
• Roasted vegetables on the side
• A chilled glass of white wine or sparkling water with lemon

Storing and Reheating

If you have leftovers (though it’s rare!), here’s how to store and enjoy them later:

• Refrigerate: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Reheat: Gently reheat on the hob or microwave with a splash of water or milk to restore creaminess.
• Freezing not recommended: Feta’s texture can become grainy when thawed.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use crumbled feta instead of a block?

Yes, but it may not melt as evenly. A block of feta is preferred for a smoother sauce.

What type of tomatoes are best?

Sweet cherry or baby plum tomatoes are ideal as they burst beautifully and balance the salty feta.

Is it spicy with chilli flakes?

Not overly. A pinch adds warmth, but you can leave it out if you prefer a milder flavour.

Final Thoughts

Baked feta pasta is the kind of meal that feels indulgent but is incredibly easy to make. Whether you’re feeding the family, having friends over, or just want a comforting bowl of pasta after a long day, this dish delivers every time.

With endless ways to customise it and only a few ingredients needed, it’s no wonder this recipe has become a modern classic. Give it a try and discover why the world fell in love with baked feta pasta.