One Pan Baked Feta Pasta with Cherry Tomatoes

One Pan Baked Feta Pasta with Cherry Tomatoes has become a viral sensation for a good reason. This incredibly easy yet flavorful dish combines the tangy richness of feta cheese with the natural sweetness of roasted cherry tomatoes, creating a creamy sauce that perfectly coats your pasta. All of this comes together in one pan, making it both simple to prepare and easy to clean up. The dish is finished with fresh basil, a sprinkle of Parmesan, and the savory addition of garlic, creating a hearty, satisfying meal that’s ideal for busy weeknights or a relaxed dinner with friends and family. With just a handful of ingredients, this dish will have you looking like a seasoned chef in no time.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

What makes One Pan Baked Feta Pasta so special is how effortlessly it comes together. The feta cheese, once baked with the tomatoes, melts into a rich and creamy sauce that pairs perfectly with the pasta. The garlic and fresh basil infuse the dish with aromatic depth, and the olive oil ties everything together with a smooth, luxurious finish. Plus, the simplicity of the recipe means that you don’t need to be an expert in the kitchen to make a dish that’s both beautiful and delicious. It’s a versatile meal that can be customized with your favorite proteins or vegetables, and the one-pan method makes cleanup a breeze.

Ingredients

For the Pasta:

• 15 ounces (453g) pasta
• 2 pints cherry tomatoes (approx. 1 and 1/2 pounds)
• 8 ounces (225g) feta cheese block
• 1/2 cup olive oil
• 1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped
• 2 to 4 cloves garlic, chopped
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• Freshly grated Parmesan cheese (optional for serving)

Variations

• Add Protein: Include grilled chicken, shrimp, or sausage for extra protein. You can add these to the pan before baking or toss them in with the pasta after baking.
• Spicy Version: Add red pepper flakes or finely diced fresh chilies to introduce some heat to the dish.
• Vegetarian Additions: Stir in spinach, zucchini, or mushrooms to the mix for added nutrition and flavor.
• Dairy-Free Option: Use a dairy-free feta cheese alternative and leave out the Parmesan for a completely dairy-free meal.
• Lemon Twist: Add some fresh lemon zest or a squeeze of lemon juice before serving for a citrusy brightness that complements the creamy feta.

How to Make the Recipe

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).

Step 2: Prepare the Baking Dish

In a large baking dish, add the cherry tomatoes, olive oil, salt, and black pepper. Toss the tomatoes around to evenly coat them with the olive oil and seasonings.

Step 3: Add the Feta and Garlic

Place the block of feta cheese in the center of the baking dish. Scatter the chopped garlic around the tomatoes and feta. This will help infuse the dish with a fragrant, garlicky flavor as it bakes.

Step 4: Bake

Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 35-40 minutes, or until the tomatoes have burst and the feta cheese has softened and turned golden around the edges.

Step 5: Cook the Pasta

While the tomatoes and feta are baking, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the pasta according to the package instructions. Once done, reserve about 1/2 cup of pasta water, then drain the pasta.

Step 6: Combine the Pasta with the Baked Sauce

Once the feta and tomatoes are out of the oven, use a spoon or fork to gently mash the feta cheese and burst the tomatoes, creating a creamy sauce. Add the cooked pasta into the baking dish along with a splash of reserved pasta water to help the sauce coat the pasta. Stir in the chopped fresh basil, and adjust the seasoning with more salt and pepper if needed.

Step 7: Serve

Serve the pasta immediately, topped with freshly grated Parmesan cheese and additional fresh basil if desired.

Tips for Making the Recipe

• Use a High-Quality Feta: For the best flavor and texture, opt for a good-quality block of feta rather than crumbled feta. The block will melt into the sauce better and create a creamier texture.
• Roast the Tomatoes Well: Make sure to roast the tomatoes long enough for them to burst and release their juices. This is key to creating the rich, flavorful sauce.
• Reserve Pasta Water: Before draining your pasta, always reserve some of the cooking water. It helps to thin out the sauce and ensures it clings better to the pasta.
• Don’t Overcook the Garlic: Garlic can become bitter if overcooked, so be sure to add it at the beginning of baking, so it roasts gently alongside the tomatoes and feta.

How to Serve

Baked Feta Pasta is delicious on its own, but it pairs wonderfully with a side of roasted vegetables, a crisp green salad, or some freshly baked bread for dipping. It can also be enjoyed with a glass of white wine like Chardonnay or Pinot Grigio, which complements the creamy feta sauce perfectly.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The dish will continue to thicken as it sits, but it will still be delicious when reheated.

Freezing

This dish is best enjoyed fresh, but if you have extra, you can freeze the pasta and sauce in an airtight container for up to 1 month. When ready to eat, thaw it overnight in the refrigerator and reheat on the stovetop, adding a splash of water or olive oil to bring the sauce back to life.

Reheating

To reheat, place the pasta in a pan over low heat, stirring occasionally. Add some extra pasta water, olive oil, or a splash of cream to restore the creamy consistency of the sauce.

FAQs

1. Can I use a different type of cheese besides feta?

While feta is essential to the flavor of this dish, you could substitute it with goat cheese for a creamier texture, but the taste will differ.

2. Can I make this recipe without basil?

Yes, if you don’t have fresh basil, you can substitute with dried basil or leave it out entirely. Fresh thyme or oregano could also work as alternatives.

3. Can I use gluten-free pasta?

Absolutely! Just swap in your favorite gluten-free pasta for a similar result.

4. Can I make this dish vegan?

To make this recipe vegan, use plant-based feta cheese and omit the Parmesan. There are several delicious vegan feta options available that will still give you that tangy, creamy taste.

5. How can I make this recipe spicier?

To add spice, incorporate red pepper flakes, or add a chopped fresh chili to the tomatoes before baking.

6. Can I add more vegetables?

Yes! You can add vegetables like spinach, zucchini, or bell peppers to make this dish even more nutritious. Just add them to the baking dish before roasting.

7. How do I keep the tomatoes from drying out during baking?

Ensure that the tomatoes are well-coated with olive oil and seasoning before roasting. The oil will help them retain moisture and burst into a juicy sauce.

8. Can I use a different type of pasta?

Yes, any pasta shape works well, but short pasta shapes like penne, fusilli, or rigatoni will hold the creamy sauce better.

9. Can I add protein to this dish?

Yes, grilled chicken, shrimp, or even sautéed sausage would make great additions to this dish for more protein.

10. Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?

While it’s best served fresh, you can prep the feta and tomato mixture the night before and store it in the refrigerator. Then, bake it and toss with the pasta when ready to serve.

Conclusion

One Pan Baked Feta Pasta with Cherry Tomatoes is a game-changer for quick, flavorful meals. Its ease of preparation, minimal cleanup, and savory Mediterranean flavors make it a perfect weeknight dinner or a dish to impress guests. With its creamy feta sauce, roasted tomatoes, and fragrant basil, this dish is sure to become a new favorite in your recipe rotation.

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