Name: Easy Baked Feta Pasta with Cherry Tomatoes
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 35 min
Total time: 45 min
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 8 oz penne pasta; 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved; 8 oz block-style feta cheese; 4 cloves garlic, minced; 3 tbsp extra virgin olive oil; Fresh basil leaves for garnish; Salt and pepper to taste

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The aroma of roasted cherry tomatoes mingling with creamy feta is enough to make anyone weak in the knees. This baked feta pasta with cherry tomatoes is not just a dish; it’s a culinary hug that warms your soul and tickles your taste buds. Picture your kitchen filled with the scent of garlic and basil wafting through the air while you prepare one of the simplest yet most satisfying meals you’ll ever make.

I remember the first time I made this dish; my friends were skeptical at first. Who puts cheese in the oven? But after one bite, they were practically fighting over the last scoop. It’s perfect for cozy nights in or impressing guests at dinner parties without breaking a sweat.

Why You'll Love This Recipe

This baked feta pasta combines ease and flavor effortlessly
The vibrant colors make it visually stunning and mouthwatering
It’s versatile enough for any occasion or dietary preference
Plus, it requires minimal prep time—perfect for busy weeknights!

I’ll never forget when this dish made its grand debut at a potluck; everyone was clamoring for the recipe before they even finished their first serving.

Essential Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

Feta Cheese: Opt for block-style feta for easy melting and a creamier texture.
Cherry Tomatoes: Use ripe cherry tomatoes; their sweetness enhances the overall flavor.
Pasta: Any shape works, but I recommend penne for its perfect sauce-holding capabilities.
Garlic: Fresh garlic cloves provide aromatic depth; don’t skimp on this essential ingredient.
Olive Oil: Good quality extra virgin olive oil adds richness and flavor; drizzle generously.
Fresh Basil: A handful of fresh basil leaves adds a burst of freshness; use it as a garnish.
Salt & Pepper: Season generously to bring out all the flavors.

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

Let’s Make it Together

Prepare Your Ingredients: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Start by gathering all your ingredients so you can work efficiently without running around like a headless chicken.

Assemble Your Dish: In a baking dish, combine cherry tomatoes and garlic cloves. Drizzle them with olive oil and season generously with salt and pepper. Toss everything together until well-coated.

Add Feta: Nestle your block of feta cheese right in the middle of those tomatoes. Don’t be shy! It deserves prime real estate in this flavorful kingdom.

Bake Away: Slide your masterpiece into the preheated oven and bake for about 30-35 minutes or until the tomatoes are blistered and the feta has softened beautifully.

Cook Your Pasta: While that’s happening in the oven, cook your chosen pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Remember to save a cup of that starchy pasta water!

Combine Everything: Once out of the oven, mash that creamy feta right into those juicy tomatoes using a fork (it’s therapeutic!). Add your drained pasta to this saucy goodness along with some reserved pasta water if needed to loosen it up.

Serve up bowls of this gorgeous baked feta pasta with cherry tomatoes hot from the stove! Garnish each serving with fresh basil leaves for that pop of green goodness.

Now you’ve got yourself an incredible dish that will earn you rave reviews from family and friends alike! Enjoy every cheesy bite!

You Must Know

This baked feta pasta with cherry tomatoes is not just a meal, it’s a culinary masterpiece!
The creamy feta and sweet tomatoes create a delicious harmony that’ll have everyone asking for seconds
Plus, it’s ridiculously easy to prepare, making it perfect for busy weeknights

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Start by roasting the cherry tomatoes and feta together until bubbly. While they cook, boil your pasta for the best results!

Add Your Touch

Feel free to swap in different veggies or add spices like red pepper flakes for an extra kick. Customize it based on your mood!

Storing & Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge. Reheat gently in the oven to maintain creaminess and flavor.

Chef's Helpful Tips

For perfectly roasted tomatoes, ensure they’re evenly spread out on the baking sheet
Use high-quality feta cheese for rich flavor
Don’t forget to taste as you go to adjust seasoning!

Sometimes I serve this dish at family gatherings, and it always steals the show. Everyone loves diving into that cheesy goodness!

FAQ

Can I use other types of cheese instead of feta?

Yes, goat cheese or ricotta can also work beautifully in this dish.

How can I make this dish vegan?

Replace feta with tofu or a plant-based cheese alternative for delicious results.

What’s the best way to choose ripe cherry tomatoes?

Look for firm tomatoes with vibrant color and a fragrant smell for optimal taste.