The aroma of baked feta pasta wafts through the air, teasing your senses with its creamy, cheesy goodness. Imagine twirling perfectly cooked pasta around a fork, each bite bursting with flavor, while the feta melts into a luscious sauce that makes you question why you haven’t made this dish every day of your life. For more inspiration, check out this baked apples with feta recipe.
Jump to:
- Ingredients for baked feta pasta
- How to Make baked feta pasta
- <strong>Perfecting the Cooking Process</strong>
- <strong>Add Your Touch</strong>
- <strong>Storing & Reheating</strong>
- FAQs :
- What ingredients do I need for baked feta pasta?
- How long does it take to prepare baked feta pasta?
- Can I customize my baked feta pasta recipe?
- Is baked feta pasta suitable for meal prep?
- Conclusion for baked feta pasta :
- 📖 Recipe Card
It’s not just about the food; it’s about the memories too. I recall making this dish for a casual dinner with friends, laughter echoing around the kitchen as we anticipated the deliciousness ahead. perfect pairing with baked feta pasta This recipe is perfect for cozy nights in or cheerful gatherings. making the perfect pizza crust Trust me; once you taste this baked feta pasta, it will steal your heart and become a staple in your kitchen.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- The baked feta pasta is quick to prepare and perfect for busy weeknights.
- Each bite offers a delightful mix of flavors that dance on your palate.
- Its stunning visuals make it an eye-catching centerpiece at any meal.
- This dish is versatile enough to adapt with various vegetables or proteins based on what you have available.
Ingredients for baked feta pasta
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
- Pasta: I prefer penne or fusilli for their ability to hold onto the sauce beautifully.
- Feta Cheese: Use high-quality feta for the best creaminess and tanginess when baked.
- Cherry Tomatoes: Choose bright red tomatoes; their sweetness enhances the overall flavor of the dish. sweet corn spoonbread casserole.
- Olive Oil: A good drizzle of extra virgin olive oil adds richness and helps everything meld together.
- Garlic: Fresh garlic gives this recipe its aromatic punch; feel free to add more if you’re feeling adventurous!
- Fresh Basil: This herb adds a fragrant freshness that complements the other ingredients perfectly.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
How to Make baked feta pasta
Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious dish:
Step 1: Preheat Your Oven
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). While it’s heating up, grab a baking dish and give it a light spray with nonstick cooking spray.
Step 2: Assemble Your Ingredients
In the baking dish, toss together cherry tomatoes, crumbled feta cheese, minced garlic, and a generous drizzle of olive oil. Season with salt and pepper for that extra zing!
Step 3: Bake Away
Pop the dish into your preheated oven and let it bake for about 25 minutes. You want those tomatoes exploding with juices while the feta gets all melty and inviting.
Step 4: Cook Your Pasta
While you’re waiting (and drooling), cook your pasta according to package instructions until al dente—about 10 minutes should do it. Drain and set aside.
Step 5: Combine Everything
Once out of the oven, stir everything together gently in the baking dish until well combined. Toss in your cooked pasta and fresh basil—this is where magic happens!
Step 6: Serve!
Transfer your delectable creation to plates and sprinkle with additional fresh basil if desired. Enjoy every creamy, cheesy bite as it transports you to flavor heaven!
Now go ahead and savor your homemade baked feta pasta—it’s time well spent in both cooking and enjoying!
You Must Know
- This delightful baked feta pasta is not just a meal; it’s a culinary adventure waiting to unfold.
- With its creamy sauce and roasted vegetables, it transforms simple ingredients into a feast for the senses.
- Perfect for any occasion, this dish will steal the spotlight on your dinner table.
Perfecting the Cooking Process
To achieve optimal flavor and texture, start by roasting the feta and tomatoes first. While they bubble away, boil your pasta until al dente. Combine everything with fresh herbs, and voilà—dinner is served!
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap out the pasta for whole grain or gluten-free options. Add in some spinach or olives for extra flavor, or toss in grilled chicken for a protein boost. Get creative!
Storing & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. To reheat, simply warm it gently in the microwave or on the stove over low heat until heated through.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- Use high-quality feta cheese for creamier results that elevate your dish.
- Add a pinch of red pepper flakes if you like a kick!
- Always reserve some pasta water to adjust your sauce’s consistency while mixing.
Sometimes I whip up this baked feta pasta when friends unexpectedly drop by; their amazed faces say it all! It’s always a hit and ignites laughter around the table.
FAQs :
What ingredients do I need for baked feta pasta?
To make delicious baked feta pasta, you’ll need a few simple ingredients. Start with a block of feta cheese, ripe cherry tomatoes, and your favorite pasta. Olive oil, garlic, salt, pepper, and fresh herbs like basil or oregano will enhance the flavors. You can also add red pepper flakes if you prefer a bit of heat. This dish is not only easy to prepare but also offers an incredible combination of flavors that will impress anyone at the dinner table. For more inspiration, check out this Philly cheesesteak pasta recipe.
How long does it take to prepare baked feta pasta?
Preparing baked feta pasta is quick and straightforward. The total time is usually around 30 to 40 minutes. You’ll spend about 10 minutes gathering and chopping your ingredients, followed by approximately 20 to 25 minutes baking in the oven. While the feta and tomatoes bake, you can cook your pasta according to package instructions. This makes it an ideal recipe for busy weeknights or when you want something tasty without spending hours in the kitchen.
Can I customize my baked feta pasta recipe?
Absolutely! One of the great things about baked feta pasta is its versatility. You can add different vegetables like spinach or zucchini for extra nutrition. If you’re looking for protein, consider adding grilled chicken or chickpeas. delicious chicken parmesan Experimenting with various herbs and spices can also give new dimensions to the dish. Whether you prefer it spicy or mild, baked feta pasta allows for endless customization according to your taste preferences.
Is baked feta pasta suitable for meal prep?
Yes, baked feta pasta is perfect for meal prep! You can easily make a larger batch and store portions in airtight containers in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh for up to three days. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, simply reheat it in the microwave or on the stove. This makes it an excellent option for lunches or quick dinners throughout the week without sacrificing flavor or quality.
Conclusion for baked feta pasta :
In summary, baked feta pasta is a delightful dish that combines simplicity with rich flavors. With just a handful of ingredients, this recipe offers numerous customization options to suit your taste preferences. It takes minimal time to prepare and cook while delivering maximum satisfaction at the dinner table. Enjoy experimenting with additional vegetables or proteins to create your unique version of this mouthwatering meal. Whether for a casual family dinner or a special occasion, baked feta pasta is sure to impress everyone!
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📖 Recipe Card
Print
Baked Feta Pasta
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: Serves approximately 4 people 1x
Description
Baked feta pasta is a creamy, cheesy delight that transforms simple ingredients into a comforting meal. With roasted cherry tomatoes and melty feta, this dish is not only quick to prepare but also bursting with flavor. Perfect for cozy evenings or gatherings, it can be customized with your choice of vegetables or proteins. In just 30 minutes, you’ll create a delicious dish that will surely impress family and friends.
Ingredients
- 8 oz penne pasta
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes
- 8 oz feta cheese
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- ¼ tsp salt
- ¼ tsp black pepper
- Fresh basil leaves (for garnish)
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and lightly spray a baking dish with nonstick cooking spray.
- Combine cherry tomatoes, crumbled feta cheese, minced garlic, olive oil, salt, and pepper in the baking dish.
- Bake for about 25 minutes until the tomatoes burst and the feta is melty.
- Meanwhile, cook the penne pasta according to package instructions until al dente; drain.
- Once out of the oven, gently mix the baked mixture and toss in the cooked pasta along with fresh basil.
- Serve warm, garnished with additional basil if desired.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Mediterranean
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (approximately 250g)
- Calories: 410
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 650mg
- Fat: 22g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Unsaturated Fat: 12g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 37g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 12g
- Cholesterol: 35mg
