Creamy Baked Feta Pasta

This creamy baked feta pasta transforms simple ingredients into a luxurious dinner with minimal effort. The magic happens when the feta melts into a silky sauce, coating every strand of pasta with rich flavor while the tomatoes burst and release their sweet juices.

I first made this pasta during a hectic weeknight when I needed something impressive without the fuss. The combination of melty feta with sweet tomatoes and crisp asparagus converted even my vegetable-skeptical teenagers into eager diners.

Ingredients

• Cherry or grape tomatoes: These small tomatoes caramelize beautifully while baking and burst to create a natural sauce
• Asparagus: Adds a fresh green element and slight crunch to balance the creamy texture
• Extra virgin olive oil: Use a good quality oil as it forms the foundation of the sauce flavor
• Feta cheese block: The star ingredient that transforms into a creamy sauce; choose authentic Greek feta for the best flavor and texture
• Penne pasta: The tube shape captures the sauce perfectly; any medium pasta shape works well
• Garlic cloves: Added in two stages for both mellow baked flavor and bright fresh finish
• Fresh parsley or basil: Brightens the rich sauce with herbaceous notes and visual appeal

Step-by-Step Instructions

Prepare the baking dish:

Combine tomatoes and asparagus with olive oil, half the garlic, pepper and salt in your baking dish. Create a space in the center for the feta block, drizzle it with more olive oil and pepper. This arrangement allows the cheese to melt while the vegetables soften and release their flavors around it.

Bake to perfection:

Place in a 400°F oven for 30 minutes until the tomatoes begin to burst and the cheese develops a light golden color on top. The high temperature ensures the vegetables caramelize slightly while the feta softens completely throughout.

Cook the pasta:

About 15 minutes into baking, start cooking your pasta in well-salted water. Follow package instructions, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking. Reserve some cooking water before draining to potentially thin the sauce later.

Create the sauce:

Remove the baking dish from the oven and immediately add remaining fresh garlic and herbs. The residual heat will gently cook the garlic without burning it. Use a spoon to break up and mix the melted feta with the olive oil and tomato juices until creamy.

Combine and serve:

Add the drained pasta directly to the baking dish and toss until every piece is coated with the creamy sauce. Adjust consistency with reserved pasta water if needed for a looser sauce. Serve immediately while hot.

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This recipe became an instant family favorite after I first prepared it during a spontaneous dinner party. My guests were amazed by how the humble block of feta transformed into such a luxurious sauce. The combination of sweet caramelized tomatoes with the tangy cheese creates a flavor profile that tastes far more complex than its simple ingredient list suggests.

Make-Ahead Options

You can prepare the tomato and feta portion of this dish up to a day in advance. Simply assemble in the baking dish, cover with plastic wrap, and refrigerate. When ready to serve, allow the dish to come to room temperature for about 30 minutes before baking as directed. Cook fresh pasta just before serving for the best texture and results.

Clever Variations

The basic formula of this dish lends itself to endless customization. Try swapping asparagus for spinach, zucchini, or bell peppers based on seasonal availability. For protein, add cooked chicken, shrimp, or Italian sausage after mixing the sauce. Different cheese options work too. While traditional feta provides the signature tangy flavor, goat cheese creates an even creamier result, and brie offers luxurious richness.

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Serving Suggestions

Serve this pasta with a simple side salad dressed with lemon vinaigrette to balance the rich main dish. A piece of crusty bread makes the perfect tool for scooping up any remaining sauce. For wine pairing, choose a crisp white like Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio that can cut through the creaminess while complementing the tomato acidity.

Storage And Reheating

This pasta keeps well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days in an airtight container. When reheating, add a splash of water or olive oil to revive the sauce that may have thickened during storage. Warm gently in a covered skillet over medium-low heat or microwave at 50% power, stirring occasionally. The flavors actually develop beautifully overnight, making this an excellent meal prep option.

Frequently Asked Questions

→ Can I use a different type of cheese instead of feta?

Yes, you can substitute feta with goat cheese or ricotta, but the texture and flavor may vary.

→ Can I use other vegetables in this dish?

Absolutely! Vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, or spinach work well as alternatives or additions.

→ What type of pasta works best for this dish?

Penne is great, but other short pasta types like fusilli or rigatoni also work well to hold the sauce.

→ Can this dish be made ahead of time?

It's best served fresh, but you can prepare the baked feta mixture in advance and cook the pasta later.

→ How can I make this dish more flavorful?

Consider adding a pinch of red chili flakes or lemon zest for a kick of flavor.