BAKED FETA PASTA RECIPE

If you’re craving a dish that’s impossibly creamy, bursting with bold Mediterranean flavors, and almost effortless to toss together, you’re in for a treat: the BAKED FETA PASTA RECIPE is pure, viral magic in a bowl! Imagine juicy oven-roasted grape tomatoes, mellowed by the warmth of olive oil and the perfume of basil, swirled lovingly with tangy, molten Feta and tender bow tie pasta. This all-in-one wonder is not only supremely satisfying for weeknight meal times but also a total showstopper for laid-back gatherings.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s celebrate the beauty of simplicity! Each ingredient in this BAKED FETA PASTA RECIPE shines for a reason: from luscious tomatoes to that iconic slab of Feta, every element unlocks its own texture, taste, and color, making the whole dish a glorious medley.

• Grape Tomatoes (2 ½ cups): Their natural sweetness intensifies in the oven, creating a jammy, juicy sauce base for the pasta.
• Feta Cheese (1 8-oz brick): Pick up a whole block—not crumbles!—for the creamiest, melty results once baked.
• Italian Seasoning (1 teaspoon): This blend delivers tried-and-true herbal notes that tie the whole dish together.
• Salt (½ teaspoon): Just enough to punch up the flavors and balance the tang of the Feta.
• Olive Oil (5 tablespoons): The richness carries all the flavors and helps everything roast to perfection.
• Fresh Basil (¼ cup, chopped): Bright, peppery, and aromatic, basil brings freshness and color to the finished pasta.
• Bow Tie Pasta (12 oz, cooked and drained): These adorable farfalle are perfect for catching every bit of that creamy, cheesy sauce.

How to Make BAKED FETA PASTA RECIPE

Step 1: Prep Your Ingredients

Start by gathering everything you need for the BAKED FETA PASTA RECIPE so you can move seamlessly through each step. Wash and dry the grape tomatoes, chop your fresh basil, and cook your bow tie pasta just before baking so it’s ready to soak up that gorgeously cheesy sauce.

Step 2: Arrange the Tomatoes and Feta

In a medium-sized baking dish, scatter the grape tomatoes evenly. Place the block of Feta cheese right in the center, nestling it into the sea of tomatoes so it can melt and infuse everything with its tasty tang.

Step 3: Season and Drizzle

Drizzle 3 tablespoons of olive oil over both the tomatoes and Feta cheese. Next, dust everything generously with the Italian seasoning and salt—these little touches take your BAKED FETA PASTA RECIPE from good to over-the-top amazing. Finish by drizzling the last 2 tablespoons of olive oil over the cheese for extra silkiness.

Step 4: Bake Until Bubbling

Slide your dish into the oven (preheated to 350°F) and bake for 30 to 35 minutes. You’ll know it’s ready when the tomatoes have burst with juice and the Feta is golden at the edges and spreadably soft.

Step 5: Stir in Basil and Pasta

Carefully remove the dish from the oven and immediately stir the softened cheese and juicy tomatoes together, creating a velvety sauce. Toss in the chopped fresh basil—its aroma will bloom in the heat. Finally, mix in your cooked bow tie pasta, ensuring every piece gets coated with that sensational, creamy sauce. Serve up the BAKED FETA PASTA RECIPE piping hot for full flavor impact!

How to Serve BAKED FETA PASTA RECIPE

Garnishes

A shower of freshly torn basil or a sprinkle of cracked black pepper is a no-brainer for this dish. For a final flourish, try a drizzle of extra-virgin olive oil or even a smattering of chili flakes if you love a little heat—the finishing touches always turn this pasta into a feast for the eyes and taste buds alike.

Side Dishes

The richness of this BAKED FETA PASTA RECIPE pairs beautifully with crisp, vibrant sides. Think a zingy arugula salad with lemon vinaigrette, some char-grilled vegetables, or a warm loaf of crusty bread—perfect for scooping up any leftover sauce. Keep it simple and let the pasta be the star.

Creative Ways to Present

For a fun twist, serve the pasta in individual bowls with a big basil leaf on top, or toss in a handful of roasted veggies or sautéed mushrooms to build on the flavors. For parties, consider dishing up tapas-style small portions so guests can mingle while enjoying this unforgettable BAKED FETA PASTA RECIPE.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you’re lucky enough to have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in your refrigerator. The flavors meld even more overnight, making it a fabulous next-day lunch. The pasta will soak up a bit of the sauce, but a quick splash of olive oil brings it right back to life.

Freezing

While you can freeze this pasta, the texture of the Feta and tomatoes is best when enjoyed fresh. If needed, let your cooled BAKED FETA PASTA RECIPE chill in the freezer in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Thaw gently in the fridge before reheating.

Reheating

To reheat, place the pasta in a covered baking dish and warm it in a 325°F oven until heated through, adding a touch more olive oil if it looks dry. Alternatively, a quick zap in the microwave works in a pinch—just be sure to stir halfway so it heats evenly and creamy.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of cheese?

While Feta is the classic star, you can experiment with creamy goat cheese for a milder tang or even a vegan Feta to make the BAKED FETA PASTA RECIPE dairy free—just remember, texture and flavor may vary.

Do I need to cook the pasta before baking?

Yes, for this recipe you’ll want to boil the bow tie pasta separately and have it warm and ready to toss in after you’ve baked the Feta and tomatoes. This prevents the pasta from turning mushy.

What other vegetables can I add?

You can easily bulk up this BAKED FETA PASTA RECIPE with extras like baby spinach, roasted bell peppers, or steamed broccoli. Just add them after baking or mix in pre-roasted veggies for more color and nutrients!

Can I use dried basil instead of fresh?

Fresh basil adds unbeatable flavor and aroma, but in a pinch, you can use dried—just reduce the amount to about a tablespoon, and sprinkle it in with the Italian seasoning before baking.

What kind of pasta works best?

Bow tie pasta is adorable and great for catching all that creamy sauce, but honestly, any short pasta shape—like penne, rigatoni, or rotini—will work just as well in this BAKED FETA PASTA RECIPE.

Final Thoughts

Once you dive into this BAKED FETA PASTA RECIPE, you’ll know immediately why it’s a viral culinary superstar! It’s beautifully simple, endlessly customizable, and absolutely packed with punchy flavors. Give it a try, and don’t be surprised if it finds a permanent home in your meal rotation—enjoy every cheesy, tomato-packed bite!

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