Baked Feta Pasta With Cherry Tomatoes

Name: Baked Feta Pasta With Cherry Tomatoes
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 35 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 200g feta cheese; 400g cherry tomatoes; 300g pasta of choice; 3 tablespoons olive oil; 2 garlic cloves, minced; Salt and pepper to taste; Fresh basil for garnish

Highlighted under: Baked Perfection

I’m excited to share my version of Baked Feta Pasta with Cherry Tomatoes, a dish that has become a favorite in my kitchen. The combination of creamy feta and sweet, roasted tomatoes creates a delightful sauce that complements any pasta perfectly. After trying many variations, I discovered that baking the feta really draws out its flavor, making it richer and smoother. This dish is not only easy to prepare but also a showstopper that will impress your family and friends during dinner gatherings.

Created by

Maribel Hayes

Last updated on 2026-02-08T08:53:36.424Z

During one of my kitchen experiments, I stumbled upon the idea of baking feta with cherry tomatoes. I wasn’t sure how it would turn out, but the moment I pulled it out of the oven, my kitchen was filled with an irresistible aroma. The tomatoes burst with flavor while the feta became creamy and luscious, creating a perfect sauce for pasta. It’s such a simple method, yet it packs a punch.

What I love most is how versatile this dish is. You can easily customize it by adding other vegetables or herbs based on what you have on hand. A sprinkle of fresh basil or a dash of red pepper flakes really elevates it. Trust me; once you try this recipe, it will become a staple in your home!

Why You Will Love This Recipe
Creamy feta that melts into a rich, savory sauce.
Sweet cherry tomatoes bursting with flavor.
Quick and easy preparation for a satisfying meal.

The Importance of Ingredient Quality

Choosing high-quality feta cheese is crucial for this recipe; it dramatically influences the creaminess and flavor of the sauce. Opt for a block of feta rather than crumbled varieties, as the whole block holds its structure during baking and melts beautifully to create a luscious texture. Additionally, look for feta packed in brine, which adds an extra layer of flavor to the dish.

When it comes to cherry tomatoes, freshness is key. Use ripe, in-season tomatoes for the sweetest taste, as they will caramelize beautifully in the oven. If you don’t have cherry tomatoes, you can substitute with diced Roma or vine tomatoes, but be sure to adjust the cooking time slightly, as larger tomatoes may take a bit longer to roast down.

Tips for Perfect Pasta

To ensure your pasta is perfectly cooked, always follow the package instructions but subtract one minute from the recommended cooking time. It will continue cooking when combined with the hot feta and tomatoes. This technique helps avoid mushy pasta and allows it to retain a pleasant al dente bite that contrasts well with the creamy sauce.

Don’t be afraid to experiment with your choice of pasta shapes. While penne or fusilli work great in holding onto the creamy sauce, shapes like spaghetti or linguine can also be used. Just remember that the cooking time may vary slightly, so keep an eye on the pasta to achieve the perfect texture.

Serving Suggestions and Storage

This Baked Feta Pasta is incredibly versatile. For a heartier meal, consider adding grilled chicken or sautéed shrimp on top. A sprinkle of red pepper flakes can introduce a delightful kick if you enjoy a bit of spice. For a vegetarian protein boost, toss in some chickpeas before baking to enrich the dish with fiber and texture.

In terms of storage, leftovers can be kept in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat gently in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through, adding a splash of olive oil to revive the creamy texture. While this dish is best enjoyed fresh, you can make the tomato and feta base a day ahead to streamline preparation on busy nights.

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients to make your Baked Feta Pasta delicious!

Ingredients

200g feta cheese
400g cherry tomatoes
300g pasta of choice
3 tablespoons olive oil
2 garlic cloves, minced
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh basil for garnish

With these fresh ingredients, you are ready to create a delightful meal everyone will enjoy!

Instructions

Follow these easy steps to achieve the perfect baked feta pasta.

Prepare the Oven and Pasta

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). In a pot of boiling salted water, cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.

Assemble the Dish

In a baking dish, combine cherry tomatoes and feta cheese. Drizzle with olive oil and sprinkle with minced garlic, salt, and pepper. Toss gently to coat.

Bake

Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 30 minutes, or until the tomatoes are roasted and the feta is creamy.

Combine with Pasta

Remove from the oven, add the cooked pasta to the baking dish, and mix everything together until combined. Adjust seasoning if necessary.

Serve

Garnish with fresh basil and serve hot. Enjoy your delicious Baked Feta Pasta!

Your creamy, irresistible Baked Feta Pasta is ready to be enjoyed!

Pro Tips

For an extra kick, consider adding a pinch of red pepper flakes or a squeeze of lemon juice before serving.

Ingredient Substitutions

If you're looking to lighten up the dish, consider using a low-fat feta cheese or substituting it with ricotta or a creamy goat cheese. These alternatives will still create a flavorful sauce, although the texture will differ slightly. Just be aware that goat cheese will impart a distinct tanginess, which may alter the overall flavor profile of the dish.

For a dairy-free option, try using a vegan feta alternative made from nuts or soy. While the texture might not be quite the same once baked, it can still deliver a creamy consistency when mixed with the roasted tomatoes and pasta.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

If you notice that your sauce isn't as creamy as desired, it may be due to using a feta that is too dry. In this case, sprinkle a tablespoon of reserved pasta water into the mix; the starchy water will help bring everything together for a smoother sauce. Additionally, if your tomatoes haven't burst open after baking, consider giving them a little more time while closely monitoring to prevent burning.

For overly salty dish, the feta you used might have been extra salty. To counteract this, mix in a teaspoon of sugar or a splash of lemon juice to balance flavors. Always taste before serving to ensure the seasoning is just right.

Scaling the Recipe

This recipe is easily scalable for larger gatherings. Simply multiply the ingredients while maintaining the same baking time. If you’re doubling or tripling the recipe, use multiple baking dishes to ensure even roasting of the tomatoes and cheese, as overcrowding may lead to steaming rather than roasting.

When scaling up, consider the size of your pasta pot as well; you might need to cook in batches to keep everything at the ideal texture. Prepare the same amount of sauce per batch, and combine everything just before serving to keep the pasta from becoming overly soft.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use a different type of cheese?

Yes, you can experiment with other cheeses like goat cheese or ricotta, although the texture and flavor will differ.

→ What other vegetables can I add?

Feel free to add bell peppers, zucchini, or spinach for more greens and flavor.

→ Can this dish be made ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare everything ahead and simply bake it when ready to serve.

→ How do I store leftovers?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave before serving.