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: 8 ounces pasta (penne or fusilli recommended); 1 block (8 ounces) feta cheese; 2 cups cherry tomatoes; 1/4 cup olive oil; 4 cloves garlic, minced; 1 teaspoon dried oregano; Salt and pepper to taste; Fresh basil for garnish

Highlighted under: Sweet Oven Classics

I can't get enough of this Baked Feta Pasta with Cherry Tomatoes! It’s the ultimate comfort dish that combines creamy feta cheese and juicy tomatoes, creating a delightful harmony of flavors. The simplicity of tossing everything together and letting the oven do the work is what makes this recipe a staple in my kitchen. Perfect for weeknight dinners or impressive gatherings, every bite is a burst of Mediterranean freshness. Join me as I share my secret to achieving the perfect baked pasta dish that’s incredibly easy and oh-so-satisfying.

Created by

Callie Morgan

Last updated on 2026-02-08T06:09:36.403Z

During one of my weekly meal prep sessions, I stumbled upon a vibrant recipe for Baked Feta Pasta and decided to give it a whirl. The combination of the feta melting into the olive oil and garlic, tossed with roasted cherry tomatoes, was nothing short of magical. I learned that roasting enhances the natural sweetness of the tomatoes, creating an irresistible sauce that clings to the pasta.

Another tip I picked up during my experiments was to slightly undercook the pasta before adding it to the baked mixture. This way, it absorbs all the tasty flavors while finishing cooking in the oven. Trust me, the result is a creamy, savory dish that will have everyone coming back for seconds!

Why You Will Love This Recipe
Creamy feta that transforms into a luscious sauce
Sweet, roasted cherry tomatoes that burst with flavor
Quick and easy to prepare, perfect for any night

The Importance of Quality Ingredients

The success of this Baked Feta Pasta is heavily reliant on the quality of the ingredients used. Opting for fresh, ripe cherry tomatoes enhances the overall flavor profile. When baked, these tomatoes will caramelize, providing a sweet and tangy contrast to the creamy feta. If cherry tomatoes are out of season, you can substitute with grape tomatoes or even diced fresh bell peppers for an equally vibrant result.

Choosing a good quality feta cheese is essential, as it should be creamy yet crumbly. I recommend using Greek feta for its rich flavor. If you prefer a lighter option, you can substitute with a low-fat feta or even a vegan feta made from nuts. Just be mindful that these alternatives may alter the overall texture and taste of the dish slightly.

Perfecting the Baking Process

Baking the feta and tomatoes brings out their natural flavors and creates a luscious, creamy sauce. It’s essential to watch for visual cues: the tomatoes should be bursting, and the feta should develop a golden hue. If the feta hasn’t browned after 30 minutes, consider increasing the oven temperature by 25°F to achieve that golden crust. The ideal texture should be smooth enough to blend easily with the pasta yet still retain some chunks.

To enhance the flavors further, you can experiment with infused olive oils or add a splash of balsamic vinegar before baking. These additions can significantly elevate the depth of flavor, providing a pleasing acidity to balance the richness of the feta; just be sure not to overpower the dish.

Ingredients

Gather these fresh ingredients to get started:

Ingredients

8 ounces pasta (penne or fusilli recommended)
1 block (8 ounces) feta cheese
2 cups cherry tomatoes
1/4 cup olive oil
4 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon dried oregano
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh basil for garnish

Make sure to have these ingredients on hand for a successful bake!

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to create your baked masterpiece:

Prepare the Ingredients

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). In a large baking dish, combine the cherry tomatoes, feta cheese, olive oil, minced garlic, oregano, salt, and pepper. Toss until well mixed.

Bake the Feta and Tomatoes

Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 30 minutes or until the tomatoes are bursting and the feta is golden and melty.

Cook the Pasta

While the feta and tomatoes are baking, cook the pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.

Mix It All Together

Remove the baking dish from the oven. Stir the baked mixture together and then add the cooked pasta. Toss to combine ensuring the pasta is well coated.

Serve and Enjoy

Garnish with fresh basil and enjoy your delicious Baked Feta Pasta warm!

Now you’re ready to enjoy a delicious and flavorful meal!

Pro Tips

Feel free to customize this recipe by adding spinach or olives for extra taste. Always adjust the salt based on the saltiness of your feta!

Storing Leftovers

If you have any leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. The baked pasta can dry out, so it’s a good idea to drizzle a bit of olive oil over the top before sealing the container. To reheat, simply place the leftovers in a baking dish and cover with foil to prevent drying out, then heat at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through, about 15-20 minutes.

This dish also freezes well. To freeze, let it cool completely and then transfer it to a freezer-safe container. It can be frozen for up to three months. When ready to eat, allow it to thaw in the fridge overnight and then reheat as mentioned above.

Serving Suggestions

This Baked Feta Pasta is fantastic as a main course, but you can also serve it as a side dish alongside grilled chicken, fish, or a fresh Mediterranean salad. A sprinkle of crushed red pepper can add a lovely kick if you like things a bit spicy. For an added touch, drizzle some high-quality extra virgin olive oil over each serving for richness.

Consider topping the dish with toasted pine nuts or walnuts for a wonderful crunch and additional texture. These nuts can complement the creamy feta beautifully and provide an interesting contrast to the soft pasta and juicy tomatoes.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use a different type of cheese?

Yes, goat cheese or ricotta works well, though they will give a different flavor.

→ What pasta shape works best?

Penne and fusilli are great as they hold the sauce nicely, but any pasta shape will work!

→ Can I make this dish vegetarian?

Absolutely! This recipe is naturally vegetarian, just ensure your pasta is made without eggs if strictly vegetarian.

→ How do I store leftovers?

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