If you’re craving a pasta dish that’s as stunningly simple as it is delicious, the Pasta with Baked Feta and Cherry Tomatoes Recipe is about to become your new favorite go-to meal. This magical combination of creamy baked feta, sweet roasted cherry tomatoes, and perfectly al dente pasta comes together effortlessly, creating a rich, tangy, and fresh sauce that feels both comforting and exciting in every bite. It’s the kind of recipe that warms your heart, delights your taste buds, and impresses anyone lucky enough to share it with you.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Getting ready to whip up this Pasta with Baked Feta and Cherry Tomatoes Recipe is a breeze because it calls for simple, pantry-friendly ingredients that each bring something special—whether it’s that punch of creaminess, vibrant color, or herbaceous aroma that elevates this dish from everyday to unforgettable.
- 12 oz pasta (penne, rotini, or spaghetti): Choose your favorite shape to soak up all the luscious sauce beautifully.
- 1 pint (2 cups) cherry tomatoes: These burst with sweetness when baked, adding a juicy pop to every forkful.
- 8 oz block feta cheese: The star of the show, melting into a creamy, salty delight that coats the pasta perfectly.
- 1/4 cup olive oil: Adds richness and helps roast the ingredients to perfection.
- 3 cloves garlic, minced: Infuses the dish with fragrant warmth and depth.
- 1 tsp dried oregano (or 1 tbsp fresh): Brings an earthy Mediterranean flavor that complements the feta and tomatoes.
- 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes (optional): Just a hint of heat to balance the creaminess and sweetness.
- Salt and black pepper to taste: Essential for seasoning to make all flavors shine.
- 1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped (or parsley): Brightens the dish with herbal freshness and color.
- Optional: 1 tbsp lemon juice: Adds a zesty brightness that lifts the entire flavor profile.
How to Make Pasta with Baked Feta and Cherry Tomatoes Recipe
Step 1: Preheat Your Oven
Start by heating your oven to 400°F (200°C). This temperature is just right to gently roast the feta and cherry tomatoes, coaxing out their natural sweetness and allowing the feta to soften perfectly without losing its character.
Step 2: Assemble for Baking
Grab a 9×13-inch baking dish and place the block of feta right in the center. Surround it lovingly with all those vibrant cherry tomatoes. Drizzle olive oil generously over the cheese and tomatoes, then sprinkle the minced garlic, oregano, red pepper flakes (if you love a little kick), and a pinch of salt and black pepper. This little prep step sets the stage for an incredible flavor explosion.
Step 3: Bake Until Blissful
Pop the dish into your preheated oven and bake it for 25 to 30 minutes. Keep an eye out for those tomatoes to burst open, releasing their juices, and the feta to soften up nicely, almost melting into a creamy, dreamy base.
Step 4: Cook the Pasta
While the magic happens in the oven, cook your chosen pasta in a large pot of salted boiling water according to the package directions until just al dente—usually about 10 to 12 minutes. Don’t forget to reserve half a cup of pasta water before draining, as it’s the secret to loosening up the sauce later.
Step 5: Combine and Create the Sauce
Once the feta and tomatoes are out of the oven, use a fork to gently mash them together in the dish, blending the melted cheese with the roasted tomatoes into a silky, flavorful sauce. Toss in your cooked pasta and mix everything until every piece is beautifully coated. Add a splash of that reserved pasta water if the sauce feels too thick or needs a little extra love.
Step 6: Finish with Freshness and Serve
Stir in the freshly chopped basil and, if you’re feeling adventurous, a squeeze of lemon juice to brighten the flavors. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed. Serve this fantastic Pasta with Baked Feta and Cherry Tomatoes Recipe warm, garnished with a few extra basil leaves for that perfect final touch.
How to Serve Pasta with Baked Feta and Cherry Tomatoes Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh basil is always a winner, but you can also add a sprinkle of toasted pine nuts or a drizzle of high-quality extra virgin olive oil to add texture and complexity. A little cracked black pepper on top amps up the aroma and overall experience, making every bite a delight.
Side Dishes
This pasta pairs beautifully with a crisp green salad, perhaps with a lemony vinaigrette to complement the flavors. Roasted vegetables or garlic bread are comforting sides that also help soak up every last bit of the luscious sauce—because you absolutely don’t want to waste any!
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun spin, try serving individual portions in small, rustic bowls with a sprinkle of fresh herbs and some lemon zest on top. If you’re entertaining, set out bowls of extra chili flakes, fresh oregano, and grated parmesan cheese so guests can personalize their plates to their heart’s desire.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover pasta should be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator and is best enjoyed within 2 to 3 days. The flavors meld wonderfully over time, making it just as tasty the next day.
Freezing
This particular Pasta with Baked Feta and Cherry Tomatoes Recipe freezes well if you want to stash some away. Freeze in portioned containers and thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating gently on the stove or in the microwave to preserve the creamy texture.
Reheating
Reheat leftovers by warming gently on medium heat with a splash of water or olive oil to loosen the sauce so it doesn’t dry out. Stir often, and finish with a sprinkle of fresh herbs to restore that vibrant, fresh flavor.
FAQs
Can I use other types of cheese instead of feta?
While feta’s unique tang and saltiness are key, you can experiment with goat cheese or ricotta for a milder, creamier texture, but the flavor profile will be different. Feta really shines in this recipe because it melts just right without losing its characteristic bite.
What pasta shape works best for this recipe?
Penne, rotini, or spaghetti all work wonderfully here. The important part is that your pasta holds onto the juicy, cheesy sauce, so shapes with ridges or tubes are particularly effective, but feel free to use whatever you enjoy most.
Is it possible to make this recipe vegan?
Absolutely! You can substitute the feta with a vegan cheese alternative that melts well, or try blending silken tofu with lemon juice and nutritional yeast for a creamy sauce. Adjust seasoning to your taste and roast the tomatoes the same way for that beautiful burst of flavor.
How can I add protein to this dish?
If you want to boost the protein, toss in some grilled chicken, sautéed shrimp, or roasted chickpeas. They blend seamlessly with the baked feta and tomatoes and make the dish even more satisfying as a main course.
What’s the best way to add heat if I like spicy food?
The recipe includes optional red pepper flakes, but you can also add a dash of smoked paprika or a few drops of hot sauce when mixing the sauce. Adjust the spice level gradually to make sure it complements rather than overwhelms the tangy feta and sweet tomatoes.
Final Thoughts
This Pasta with Baked Feta and Cherry Tomatoes Recipe is a gorgeous example of how a handful of simple ingredients can come together to create something truly special. Whether you’re cooking for yourself or impressing friends, it’s a guaranteed winner that delivers comforting, vibrant flavors every single time. Don’t hesitate—get that oven preheated, gather your ingredients, and fall in love with this beautiful, easy-to-make pasta dish.
Print
Pasta with Baked Feta and Cherry Tomatoes Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Mediterranean
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This delicious and easy Pasta with Feta and Cherry Tomatoes recipe is a flavorful one-dish meal that combines creamy baked feta cheese with bursting cherry tomatoes and perfectly cooked pasta. The roasted mixture creates a luscious sauce when mashed together, enhanced with garlic, oregano, and fresh basil. Ready in about 40 minutes, it’s a simple comfort food perfect for weeknights or casual dinners.
Ingredients
Pasta
- 12 oz pasta (penne, rotini, or spaghetti)
Baked Feta and Tomatoes
- 1 pint (2 cups) cherry tomatoes
- 8 oz block feta cheese
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp dried oregano (or 1 tbsp fresh oregano)
- 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
- Salt and black pepper to taste
Finishing Touches
- 1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped (or parsley)
- Optional: 1 tbsp lemon juice for brightness
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) to prepare for baking the feta and cherry tomatoes.
- Assemble for Baking: In a 9×13-inch baking dish, place the block of feta cheese in the center. Arrange the cherry tomatoes around the feta. Drizzle the olive oil evenly over the cheese and tomatoes. Sprinkle minced garlic, dried oregano, red pepper flakes if using, salt, and black pepper over the top.
- Bake Feta and Tomatoes: Bake the dish in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the cherry tomatoes burst and release their juices and the feta softens and begins to melt slightly.
- Cook the Pasta: While the feta and tomatoes bake, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente, about 10-12 minutes. Before draining, reserve 1/2 cup of the pasta cooking water, then drain the pasta.
- Combine Ingredients: Remove the baking dish from the oven. Using a fork, mash the softened feta and roasted tomatoes together until they form a creamy sauce. Add the cooked pasta to the dish and toss well to coat, adding some reserved pasta water a little at a time to loosen the sauce as needed.
- Finish and Serve: Stir in the fresh chopped basil and lemon juice if using. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper as desired. Serve the pasta warm, garnished with extra basil if desired.
Notes
- You can use any type of pasta you prefer such as penne, rotini, or spaghetti.
- Red pepper flakes are optional; add them for a bit of heat.
- Fresh oregano can be substituted for dried oregano in a 3:1 ratio.
- Reserving some pasta water helps to thin the sauce and make it silky.
- Leftovers can be refrigerated for up to 3 days and reheated gently.
- Adding lemon juice at the end brightens up the flavors nicely.
