Are you ready to elevate your dinner experience? Baked Feta Pasta has taken the culinary world by storm with its delectable combination of creamy cheese and perfectly roasted tomatoes. This one-pan wonder not only pleases your taste buds but is also a breeze to prepare. As you stir together the delicious flavors, you’ll find that this dish is not just a meal; it’s a cozy hug in a bowl.
Moreover, this flavorful Mediterranean-inspired dish marries simplicity with specificity. With each bite, you’ll enjoy the tangy feta and sweet, succulent vegetables, creating a symphony of tastes. Essentially, Baked Feta Pasta is perfect for busy weeknights and impressing guests alike. Let’s dive into the art of creating this irresistible dish!
What Makes This Dish Special:
Baked Feta Pasta has taken the culinary world by storm, and for good reason! This dish combines creamy, melted feta cheese with fresh ingredients, creating a delightful sauce that clings perfectly to your favorite pasta. The slow-baked feta transforms into a luscious base, enriched by the flavors of garlic, tomatoes, and herbs. As you combine all these elements, each bite delivers a rich and savory experience that is simply unforgettable.
Moreover, this dish is not just about taste; it’s also incredibly versatile. You can swap in seasonal vegetables or even add proteins, making it suitable for any occasion. For a hearty meal, consider pairing it with options like one-pot cheesy beef and garlic butter pasta, which offers a delightful mix of flavors that complements the creaminess of the baked feta beautifully. Whether it’s a weeknight dinner or a special gathering, Baked Feta Pasta stands out as a delicious and satisfying choice that is sure to impress!
Ingredients for Baked Feta Pasta:
To prepare this delightful baked feta pasta, gather the following ingredients:
- 2 pints cherry tomatoes
- ½ cup sliced red bell pepper
- ½ cup sliced red onion
- ½ cup olive oil
- 4 cloves peeled garlic, or more to taste
- 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
- 1 tablespoon lemon zest
- ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes
- ½ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
- ½ teaspoon Italian seasoning
- ½ teaspoon dried basil
- ¼ teaspoon sea salt
- 1 (8 ounce) package feta cheese
- 1 (12 ounce) package penne pasta
- 1 cup baby spinach
This easy and flavorful dish is perfect for busy weeknights or special occasions. After roasting the feta and tomatoes, mix everything with cooked penne for a satisfyingly creamy texture. For more delicious pasta inspiration, check out this bowtie pasta recipe that will elevate your weeknight dinner.
How to Prepare :
Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). In a large baking dish, combine 2 pints of cherry tomatoes, ½ cup of sliced red bell pepper, and ½ cup of sliced red onion. Add ½ cup of olive oil, 4 peeled garlic cloves, 2 tablespoons of freshly squeezed lemon juice, and 1 tablespoon of lemon zest. Sprinkle in ½ teaspoon of red pepper flakes, ½ teaspoon of freshly ground black pepper, ½ teaspoon of Italian seasoning, and ¼ teaspoon of sea salt to enhance the flavors. Mix everything well and place an 8-ounce block of feta cheese in the center of the dish. Bake for 30-35 minutes until the tomatoes burst and the feta softens.
Meanwhile, cook 12 ounces of penne pasta according to package instructions. When the pasta is ready, drain and mix in a cup of baby spinach. After removing the baking dish from the oven, stir the feta and vegetables together to create a creamy sauce. Finally, combine the pasta with the mixture, ensuring every bite is flavorful. For a delightful side dish, check out the Baked Chicken Schnitzel Recipe for a perfect pairing! For a similar dish idea, explore this Baked Feta Pasta recipe that will brighten your dinner table.
Cooking Tips for Perfect Baked Feta Pasta:
For a delightful Baked Feta Pasta, start by choosing a high-quality feta cheese. This ingredient will melt beautifully and impart a creamy texture to the dish. When selecting your pasta, opt for shapes that hold sauce well, such as penne or rigatoni. Remember to cook your pasta al dente, as it will continue to soften while baking.
Incorporate fresh ingredients like cherry tomatoes and basil for added flavor. Roasting the tomatoes before combining them with feta enhances their sweetness. Drizzle with olive oil and season generously with salt and pepper.
While baking, keep an eye on the feta; it should soften and turn golden, creating a delectable topping. For those who love hearty flavors, consider trying a side dish like Garlic Parmesan Beef Spaghetti Pasta to complement your meal. Finally, a sprinkle of crushed red pepper can elevate the dish and add a spicy kick.
Serving Suggestions for Baked Feta Pasta:
Baked Feta Pasta is a delightful dish that pairs wonderfully with various sides and accompaniments. For a refreshing contrast, serve it alongside a simple arugula salad drizzled with lemon vinaigrette. The peppery greens complement the creamy feta and give a nice balance to the meal. Alternatively, consider pairing it with some crusty garlic bread. This adds a satisfying crunch that enhances the overall dining experience.
For a heartier option, why not try serving it with our Baked Chicken Schnitzel? The crispy texture of the schnitzel works beautifully with the pasta’s velvety sauce. If you’re in the mood for something lighter, a bowl of roasted vegetables or a colorful quinoa salad can also enhance your meal.
Don’t forget to top your baked feta pasta with fresh herbs like basil or parsley. This not only adds flavor but also brings a fresh look to your plate. Enjoy your culinary creation!
Storage Tips for Baked Feta Pasta:
To keep your delicious baked feta pasta fresh, store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. When reheating, add a splash of olive oil to restore moisture. You can also enjoy leftovers as a part of a hearty meal, similar to pasta with egg and bacon for a delightful twist.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):
What is Baked Feta Pasta?
Baked Feta Pasta is a simple yet delightful dish that features baked feta cheese combined with pasta. This creamy and savory dish often includes tomatoes and various seasonings, offering a burst of flavors that’s both comforting and delicious.
How do you make Baked Feta Pasta?
To prepare this dish, you start by baking feta and cherry tomatoes together. The cheese melts and creates a rich sauce that you can mix with cooked pasta. For an elevated touch, consider adding garlic and herbs, which enhance the overall flavor profile.
Can I customize Baked Feta Pasta?
Absolutely! You can incorporate your favorite vegetables like spinach or mushrooms. Additionally, spices can be adjusted to your taste. For a heartier option, try adding grilled chicken or shrimp, similar to what you might find in a tasty dish like Baked Chicken Schnitzel.
Is Baked Feta Pasta suitable for meal prep?
Yes, this dish reheats well, making it a perfect option for meal prep. Store the cooked pasta separately from the sauce to maintain texture, and simply combine them when ready to serve.
What type of pasta works best?
Any pasta shape can be used, but penne or fusilli often hold the creamy sauce beautifully. Choose a pasta that you enjoy or have on hand.
Can I make Baked Feta Pasta vegetarian?
Yes! This dish is inherently vegetarian, as it relies on feta and seasonal vegetables for flavor. You can comfortably serve it to vegetarian friends without compromising on taste.
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Baked Feta Pasta: A Deliciously Cheesy Delight
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: 4-6 servings
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Baked Feta Pasta has become a viral sensation thanks to its creamy, cheesy goodness and deliciously roasted vegetables. This simple yet flavorful dish combines creamy feta cheese with juicy cherry tomatoes, fragrant garlic, and pasta for a comforting meal that’s perfect for weeknights or impressing guests. The feta melts into a rich, creamy sauce that clings to every bite of pasta, making it a true crowd-pleaser!
Ingredients
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2 pints cherry tomatoes
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½ cup sliced red bell pepper
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½ cup sliced red onion
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½ cup olive oil
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4 cloves peeled garlic (or more to taste)
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2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
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1 tablespoon lemon zest
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½ teaspoon red pepper flakes
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½ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
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½ teaspoon Italian seasoning
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½ teaspoon dried basil
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¼ teaspoon sea salt
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1 (8 ounce) package feta cheese
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1 (12 ounce) package penne pasta
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1 cup baby spinach
Instructions
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Preheat Oven
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Lightly grease a large baking dish with cooking spray or olive oil. -
Prepare Vegetables
In the prepared baking dish, combine cherry tomatoes, red bell pepper, and red onion. Add olive oil, garlic, lemon juice, lemon zest, red pepper flakes, black pepper, Italian seasoning, dried basil, and sea salt. Mix everything together well to ensure the vegetables are coated evenly. -
Add Feta
Place the block of feta cheese in the center of the dish, surrounded by the vegetables. Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until the tomatoes burst and the feta becomes soft and golden on top. -
Cook Pasta
While the feta and vegetables are baking, cook the penne pasta according to package instructions. Drain the pasta and mix it with the baby spinach, allowing the spinach to wilt slightly. -
Combine and Serve
Once the feta and tomatoes are done baking, remove the dish from the oven. Use a spoon to mix the feta and vegetables together to create a creamy sauce. Toss the cooked pasta into the baking dish, ensuring that the pasta is evenly coated with the sauce. Serve hot and enjoy!
Notes
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For added protein: You can add grilled chicken or shrimp to the dish for a heartier meal.
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Vegetable variations: Feel free to swap in other vegetables such as mushrooms, zucchini, or even olives.
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Cheese options: You can use goat cheese or ricotta if you prefer a different cheese option.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: baking
- Cuisine: Mediterranean
Nutrition
- Serving Size: One serving (about 1/4 to 1/6 of the dish)
- Calories: 450 kcal
- Sugar: 6 g
- Sodium: 800 mg
- Fat: 25 g
- Saturated Fat: 8 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 14 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 45 g
- Fiber: 5 g
- Protein: 13 g
- Cholesterol: 30 mg
Keywords: Baked Feta Pasta, Feta, Pasta, Mediterranean, Roasted Tomatoes, Vegetarian, Easy Pasta Recipe, Comfort Food, One-Pan Meal, Dinner