Baked Feta Pasta With Cherry Tomatoes

Name: Baked Feta Pasta With Cherry Tomatoes
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 40 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 block of feta cheese (about 200g); 2 cups cherry tomatoes; 3 tablespoons olive oil; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 teaspoon dried oregano; Salt and pepper to taste; 300g pasta of your choice (penne or fusilli work great); Fresh basil for garnish

Highlighted under: From Around the Globe

I absolutely love making Baked Feta Pasta With Cherry Tomatoes! This dish is a delightful combination of creamy feta, sweet cherry tomatoes, and perfectly cooked pasta that comes together effortlessly. I first stumbled upon this recipe during a dinner party where it became an instant hit, and now it’s my go-to meal for gatherings. The flavors meld beautifully as the feta melts and infuses with the tomatoes, creating a rich sauce that’s simply irresistible. Whether it’s a casual weeknight dinner or a special occasion, this pasta never fails to impress.

Created by

Ruby Lawson

Last updated on 2026-02-08T07:57:35.944Z

I remember the first time I served Baked Feta Pasta to my friends. Everyone was amazed at how simple the recipe was and how the flavors came together. The secret is letting the feta marinate with the tomatoes, which not only enhances the overall taste but also makes the cooking process a breeze. I’ve learned that using fresh cherry tomatoes yields the best results as they burst with sweetness and flavor.

In my experience, the best part about this recipe is how versatile it is. You can easily add vegetables like spinach or bell peppers, or even toss in some grilled chicken for extra protein. No matter how you decide to customize it, the creamy feta sauce remains the star of the show. It’s a dish that truly feels special yet is so easy to whip up!

Why You Will Love This Recipe
Creamy feta melts into a rich sauce
Bursting cherry tomatoes bring a sweet freshness
Effortless preparation with just one baking dish
Perfect for gatherings or a cozy family meal

The Role of Feta in This Dish

Feta cheese is not only the star ingredient in this recipe but also the secret to achieving a rich and creamy sauce. As it bakes, the feta’s creaminess intensifies, melding wonderfully with the cherry tomatoes' juiciness. You want to use a high-quality feta for the best flavor, as its unique tangy profile adds depth to the dish. Choose a block of feta rather than crumbled, as it holds its shape better and creates a luscious texture once mashed.

When baking, it’s important to keep an eye on the feta. Ideally, it should bake until it's golden at the edges and slightly softened in the center, about 30 minutes at 400°F (200°C). This creates a creamy consistency that effortlessly mixes with the tomatoes to form a velvety sauce. If the feta becomes too browned, it may become overly firm, so adjust your baking time accordingly.

Choosing the Right Pasta

While penne and fusilli are great choices for Baked Feta Pasta, don’t hesitate to experiment with other shapes. Think rigatoni for its bite or farfalle for a fun twist. The key is to select a pasta that will hold onto the creamy sauce well. Aim for a pasta size that allows sauce and feta to coat each piece evenly, contributing to a satisfying mouthfeel with every bite. Cooking it just until al dente (a minute or two less than the package instructions recommend) ensures it remains firm and doesn’t become mushy when mixed with the baked ingredients.

Another tip is to save about a cup of pasta water before draining, as this starchy liquid can help adjust the sauce's consistency. If the sauce is too thick, a splash or two of this reserved water can help loosen it without compromising flavor, ensuring a creamy texture that's perfectly clinging to the pasta.

Ingredients

Ingredients for Baked Feta Pasta

1 block of feta cheese (about 200g)
2 cups cherry tomatoes
3 tablespoons olive oil
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon dried oregano
Salt and pepper to taste
300g pasta of your choice (penne or fusilli work great)
Fresh basil for garnish

Instructions

Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).

Prepare the Baking Dish

In a baking dish, combine the cherry tomatoes with olive oil, garlic, oregano, salt, and pepper. Toss until well-coated.

Add the Feta

Place the block of feta cheese in the center of the tomatoes. Drizzle a little more olive oil on top of the feta and a sprinkle of black pepper.

Bake

Bake in the preheated oven for 30 minutes, or until the tomatoes are bursting and the feta is slightly browned.

Cook the Pasta

While the feta and tomatoes bake, cook the pasta according to package instructions. Reserve some pasta water before draining.

Combine Everything

Once the feta is baked, remove it from the oven and mash it together with the tomatoes. Stir in the cooked pasta and a splash of pasta water to create a creamy sauce.

Serve

Garnish with fresh basil and serve immediately!

Pro Tips

For an extra layer of flavor, consider adding red pepper flakes for a bit of heat or mixing in spinach during the last few minutes of baking. This dish is best enjoyed fresh, but leftovers can be stored in the fridge for up to 2 days.

Make-Ahead and Storage Tips

This Baked Feta Pasta is perfect for meal prep. You can assemble the dish ahead of time by preparing the feta and tomato mixture in the baking dish, covering it with plastic wrap, and refrigerating it for up to 24 hours. When you're ready to bake, just remove it from the fridge and allow it to come to room temperature for about 15 minutes before putting it in the oven. This way, you save time and can enjoy a freshly baked pasta on busy nights.

If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 15-20 minutes, or in the microwave, adding a splash of water or olive oil to help bring back moisture. The flavors continue to meld, making reheated leftovers just as delightful as when freshly made.

Serving Suggestions

For an enhanced flavor experience, consider serving this dish with a side of garlic bread or a mixed green salad drizzled with balsamic vinaigrette. The acidity from the vinaigrette complements the creamy feta and sweet tomatoes perfectly, creating a well-rounded meal. You can also sprinkle additional fresh herbs like parsley or dill over the top for added freshness and flavor before serving.

To cater to different dietary preferences, you can easily swap out the pasta for a gluten-free variety or use whole wheat pasta for a healthier option. For a vegan twist, replace the feta with a dairy-free cheese alternative, allowing it to melt similarly. The versatility of this dish makes it suitable for various dietary needs while still maintaining its delicious essence.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make Baked Feta Pasta ahead of time?

While it's best served fresh, you can prepare the ingredients ahead and bake them just before serving.

→ What other toppings can I use?

Feel free to add cooked chicken, zucchini, or even sun-dried tomatoes for variation.

→ Is this recipe vegetarian?

Yes, this dish is vegetarian, making it a perfect option for meat-free meals.

→ Can I use other types of cheese?

Certainly! Goat cheese or ricotta can work as delicious alternatives to feta.