Are you ready to indulge in the viral sensation that’s taken over TikTok? The Baked Feta Pasta dish is not just easy to make, but it’s also bursting with flavor. With a few simple ingredients like feta cheese, cherry tomatoes, and garlic, you can whip up a delightful meal that will impress your friends and family. Let’s dive into this tasty recipe and transform your dinner game!

Ingredients
Main Ingredients List
– 1 block feta cheese (200g)
– 2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 3 tablespoons olive oil
Seasoning & Garnishes
– 1 teaspoon dried oregano
– ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional for heat)
– Fresh basil leaves, roughly torn, for garnish
– Grated Parmesan cheese for serving (optional)
Pasta Selection
– Recommended pasta types: penne or fusilli
– Gluten-free alternatives: chickpea or brown rice pasta
For this TikTok baked feta pasta, the main ingredients shine. Feta cheese adds creaminess. Cherry tomatoes bring sweetness. Garlic gives a rich flavor. Olive oil ties everything together with a lovely finish.
You can season it to your taste. Dried oregano adds an earthy note. If you like a kick, add red pepper flakes. Fresh basil leaves give a burst of freshness. For an extra touch, sprinkle some grated Parmesan cheese on top when serving.
Choosing the right pasta is key. I suggest penne or fusilli, as they hold the creamy sauce well. If you prefer gluten-free options, try chickpea or brown rice pasta. These choices make this dish accessible for everyone.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Preheating and Preparation
– Preheat the oven: Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). This is key for baking.
– Prepare the baking dish: Take a medium-sized baking dish. Place the block of feta cheese in the center. Next, arrange the halved cherry tomatoes around it. This will make your dish colorful and tasty.
Seasoning and Baking
– Seasoning: Sprinkle minced garlic over the tomatoes and feta. Add dried oregano and red pepper flakes if you like heat.
– Baking time: Drizzle olive oil over everything. Season with salt and black pepper. Bake for 25-30 minutes. Look for blistered tomatoes and melted feta. This means it’s ready.
Cooking the Pasta
– Instructions for boiling pasta: While the feta and tomatoes bake, fill a pot with salted water. Bring it to a boil. Add your pasta and cook according to the package instructions.
– Tips for cooking pasta al dente: Aim for al dente texture. This means the pasta should be firm but cooked through. Drain the pasta and set it aside when done.
Combining Ingredients
– Creating the creamy sauce: Once your baking dish comes out of the oven, use a fork to mash the feta and tomatoes together. This will make a creamy and rich sauce.
– Mixing the cooked pasta: Gently fold the cooked pasta into the creamy sauce. Toss well so every piece of pasta is coated in that delicious mix. Enjoy your tasty creation!
Tips & Tricks
Perfecting the Recipe
To get the best feta, use a block instead of crumbles. This keeps it creamy. Bake it until it’s soft and slightly melty. For the tomatoes, choose ripe, sweet cherry tomatoes. This makes a big difference in flavor. You want them to be blistered and fragrant after baking.
Enhancing Flavor
Add more herbs for extra taste. Fresh thyme or rosemary work well. A pinch of lemon juice adds brightness. This helps balance the creaminess of the feta. You can also add a bit of balsamic vinegar for depth. Experiment to find what you love best.
Presentation Tips
Serve the pasta in shallow bowls for a nice look. Add a sprig of fresh basil on top. This adds color and makes it pop. A sprinkle of grated Parmesan can also enhance the dish. Choose a wide, shallow serving dish to show off your creation. Enjoy your beautiful meal!

Variations
Dietary Adjustments
For a vegan twist, you can replace feta cheese with tofu or cashew cheese. They give a creamy texture without dairy. You can also use nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor.
If you need a gluten-free option, choose gluten-free pasta. There are many types made from rice, corn, or chickpeas. They cook well and hold flavors nicely.
Flavor Enhancements
Want to boost the taste? Add extra veggies! Spinach, bell peppers, or zucchini work great. Just chop them and mix them in with the tomatoes before baking. This adds color, crunch, and nutrition.
You can also try different cheeses. Goat cheese or ricotta can add a unique touch. Each cheese brings its own flavor, so feel free to mix things up.
Meal Prep & Storage Variations
If you want to make a big batch, just double the recipe. Store leftovers in airtight containers. This dish holds well and tastes great the next day.
For freezing, let the pasta cool first. Place it in freezer-safe containers. It can last up to three months in the freezer. To reheat, thaw in the fridge overnight and warm it up in the oven or microwave.
Storage Info
Best Practices for Storing Leftovers
To store your baked feta pasta safely, let it cool first. This helps prevent moisture buildup in the container. Use an airtight container to keep it fresh. Glass or plastic containers with tight-fitting lids work well. Label the container with the date to track freshness.
Reheating Tips
Reheat your pasta gently to maintain its creamy texture. The best method is to use the stove. Add a splash of water or olive oil to help it heat evenly. If you want a fresh touch, toss in some torn basil leaves while reheating. This adds flavor and color to your dish.
Storage Duration
Baked feta pasta lasts about 3-5 days in the fridge. Make sure to check for any signs of spoilage before eating. If you want to freeze it, store it in a freezer-safe container. For best quality, eat frozen pasta within 2-3 months. When ready to enjoy, defrost it in the fridge overnight before reheating.
FAQs
Common Questions
What type of pasta is best for this recipe?
I recommend penne or fusilli for this dish. These shapes hold the creamy sauce well. If you like, you can use any pasta you enjoy, as long as it cooks evenly.
Can I use a different type of cheese instead of feta?
Yes, you can. Cream cheese or goat cheese can work nicely. These cheeses will give a rich taste, but the dish will differ in flavor.
Cooking Insights
How do I know when the feta and tomatoes are done baking?
The feta should be soft and slightly melted. The tomatoes should be blistered and fragrant. Check them at about 25 minutes to see if they are ready.
Can I make this recipe in advance?
You can prep the feta and tomatoes ahead of time. Just store them in the fridge before baking. Cook the pasta fresh when you are ready to eat.
Variability & Substitutions
What can I substitute for cherry tomatoes?
You can use diced regular tomatoes or even sun-dried tomatoes. Just ensure the substitute has good flavor to match the dish.
How can I make it spicier or less spicy?
Add more red pepper flakes for heat. If you want less spice, simply skip the flakes. You can also use mild peppers for flavor without heat.
This recipe highlights the best ingredients, simple steps, and helpful tips. You can enjoy creamy baked feta with pasta easily. Mix feta, tomatoes, and garlic for a tasty sauce. Remember, you can adjust flavors and substitute ingredients to fit your needs. Don’t forget to store leftovers properly to keep them fresh. With a bit of creativity, this dish can fit any diet. Try it your way, and you’ll impress everyone at the table!

