One of the simplest and most flavor-packed pasta dishes to ever hit the internet, Baked Feta Pasta became a viral sensation for a reason. Originating from a Finnish food blogger and taking off on TikTok, this dish combines just a handful of ingredients into a creamy, tangy, and irresistibly delicious pasta that’s perfect for weeknights or entertaining guests.
The best part? You only need about 10 minutes of prep and a single baking dish. Minimal fuss, maximum flavor.
🍅 Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Minimal ingredients – You likely already have them in your kitchen.
- Unbelievable flavor – Roasted tomatoes burst with sweetness, feta melts into a creamy sauce.
- Crowd-pleaser – From kids to adults, everyone loves this.
- Adaptable – Add protein, greens, or herbs to make it your own.
🛒 Ingredients You’ll Need
This recipe proves that simplicity can be stunning. Here’s what you need:
For the Base:
- 1 block (8 oz) feta cheese
- 2 pints cherry or grape tomatoes
- 10 oz pasta (penne, fusilli, or your choice)
- 3 cloves garlic, peeled and sliced
- 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil
- 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
For Flavor:
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh basil, for garnish
👨‍🍳 How to Make Baked Feta Pasta Step-by-Step
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Set your oven to 400°F (200°C) while you prep the ingredients.
Step 2: Build the Flavor Base
In a baking dish, add cherry tomatoes, garlic, and red pepper flakes. Drizzle generously with olive oil and season with salt and pepper. Nestle the block of feta cheese in the center.
Step 3: Bake It
Place the dish in the oven and bake for 30–35 minutes, or until the tomatoes burst and the feta is golden and soft.
Step 4: Cook the Pasta
While the feta and tomatoes are roasting, boil the pasta according to package instructions. Reserve 1/2 cup of pasta water before draining.
Step 5: Mix the Sauce
Once the feta and tomatoes are out of the oven, use a spoon to mash everything together until creamy and well combined.
Step 6: Combine with Pasta
Add the drained pasta to the baking dish and toss everything together. If needed, add a splash of reserved pasta water to loosen the sauce.
Step 7: Garnish and Serve
Top with freshly torn basil leaves and a drizzle of olive oil. Serve hot!
🧀 Tips for Perfect Baked Feta Pasta
- Use block feta: Crumbled feta doesn’t melt the same way.
- Choose ripe cherry tomatoes: The sweeter, the better.
- Don’t skimp on olive oil: It’s key to the creamy texture.
- Cook pasta al dente: It will absorb some sauce as it sits.
- Add pasta water slowly: Only if the mixture is too thick.
🔀 Flavor Variations and Add-Ins
Want to mix it up? Try one of these additions:
- Spinach or kale – Stir in just after baking.
- Grilled chicken or shrimp – Add cooked protein for a hearty upgrade.
- Olives or capers – For a briny twist.
- Parmesan – For an extra umami kick.
- Mushrooms or zucchini – Roast alongside tomatoes.
🍽 Serving Suggestions
Pair this baked feta pasta with:
- Simple green salad – Arugula with lemon vinaigrette works beautifully.
- Toasted sourdough or garlic bread – To mop up that luscious sauce.
- Chilled white wine – A crisp Sauvignon Blanc is a great match.
♻️ Storage and Reheating Tips
Fridge:
Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
Reheat:
Microwave or reheat on the stovetop with a splash of water or milk to revive the creaminess.
Freeze:
This pasta doesn’t freeze well due to the cheese texture, but you can freeze the tomato-feta base before adding pasta.
🙋 FAQ – Baked Feta Pasta
Can I use a feta substitute?
Yes. Try goat cheese or a soft ricotta, though it changes the flavor and texture.
Is it possible to make this dairy-free?
Use a dairy-free feta substitute, and skip the Parmesan if using.
Can I use a different type of pasta?
Absolutely! Penne, rotini, rigatoni, or even gluten-free options work great.
What if my feta doesn’t melt?
Some brands stay a bit crumbly. Just stir vigorously to break it down and add a splash of warm pasta water.
Is this recipe kid-friendly?
Yes! Skip the red pepper flakes for a milder version.
🌟 Final Thoughts
This Baked Feta Pasta recipe is more than just a viral trend — it’s a go-to comfort food that’s easy, adaptable, and packed with flavor. The combination of roasted garlic, juicy tomatoes, creamy feta, and fresh basil creates a symphony of taste in every bite. Whether you’re cooking for one or feeding a hungry group, this dish is guaranteed to satisfy.