Creamy Baked Feta Pasta

This creamy baked feta pasta started as a TikTok sensation that I simply had to try for myself. After seeing it pop up repeatedly in my feed, I gathered the ingredients and discovered what all the hype was about. The combination of bursting tomatoes with melted feta creates a luscious sauce that coats every piece of pasta perfectly.

I first made this during a lazy Sunday afternoon when I wanted something comforting yet impressive. The aroma that filled my kitchen while it baked was absolutely intoxicating, and now it's become my go-to when I want to impress friends without spending hours in the kitchen.

Ingredients

• 2 ½ cups grape tomatoes: These tiny flavor bombs burst in the oven releasing sweet juicy goodness. Look for plump ones with tight skin
• 1 8oz brick of Feta cheese: The star of the dish that melts into a creamy sauce. Traditional Greek feta works best for its tangy flavor and crumbly texture
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning: This herb blend adds depth and complexity. A quality mix should include oregano basil and thyme
• ½ teaspoon salt: Enhances all the flavors without making the dish too salty
• 5 tablespoons olive oil: Creates richness and helps everything roast beautifully. Use a good quality extra virgin for best results
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh basil: Adds brightness and color. Look for vibrant green leaves with no wilting
• 12 oz bow tie pasta: The shape catches all the creamy sauce in its crevices. Cook until just al dente

Step-by-Step Instructions

Preheat the Oven:

Set your oven to 350°F. This moderate temperature allows the tomatoes to slowly burst and the cheese to melt without burning. While waiting for the oven to heat up gather all your ingredients so they're ready to go.

Prepare the Baking Dish:

Add your washed and dried tomatoes to a medium sized baking dish spreading them out in a single layer. The tomatoes need space to roast properly so choose a dish that allows them to sit without overcrowding.

Position the Feta:

Place the entire brick of feta cheese right in the center of the tomatoes. Keeping it whole rather than crumbling it ensures the cheese melts slowly creating that creamy texture we're looking for.

First Oil Drizzle:

Drizzle 3 tablespoons of olive oil over the tomatoes and cheese making sure to get good coverage. This helps the tomatoes roast and blister beautifully while preventing the feta from drying out.

Season Everything:

Sprinkle the Italian seasoning and salt evenly over both the cheese and tomatoes. The herbs will bloom in the hot oil releasing their aromatic flavors throughout the dish.

Final Oil Touch:

Drizzle the remaining 2 tablespoons of olive oil specifically over the feta cheese. This extra fat helps the cheese melt into a creamy dreamlike consistency.

Baking Time:

Bake for 30 to 35 minutes until you see the tomatoes burst and the cheese soften substantially. The cheese should look melty around the edges but still hold some shape in the center.

Create the Sauce:

Remove from the oven and immediately stir the melted cheese and burst tomatoes until they combine into a creamy sauce. The tomato juices and cheese will marry together beautifully.

Add Fresh Herbs:

Mix in the chopped fresh basil while everything is still hot. The residual heat will help release the basil's aromatic oils without cooking it too much.

Combine with Pasta:

Add your cooked bow tie pasta directly to the baking dish and mix until every piece is thoroughly coated with the creamy tomato feta sauce. The hot pasta will absorb some of the sauce making it even more flavorful.

Pin it

The first time I made this dish my kitchen filled with the most amazing Mediterranean aroma. The magic happens when those tomatoes burst and their sweet juice mingles with the melting feta. My daughter who typically avoids anything with visible tomatoes actually requested seconds which tells you everything you need to know about how delicious this pasta truly is.

Storage Suggestions

This baked feta pasta stores beautifully in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. The flavors actually continue to develop overnight making leftovers something to look forward to. When reheating add a splash of water or olive oil to restore the creaminess as the pasta tends to absorb sauce during storage. For best results reheat gently on the stovetop rather than the microwave to prevent the sauce from separating.

Easy Variations

While the classic version is perfect as is there are countless ways to make this recipe your own. Add a handful of spinach when mixing in the pasta for extra nutrition and color. Toss in some cooked chicken or Italian sausage to make it more protein rich. For a spicy kick try adding red pepper flakes before baking or mix in some jarred roasted red peppers with the tomatoes. You can even swap the feta for goat cheese if you prefer a different tangy flavor profile.

Pin it

Serving Ideas

This creamy pasta dish stands wonderfully on its own but pairs beautifully with a simple green salad dressed with lemon and olive oil to cut through the richness. For a complete Mediterranean inspired meal serve alongside grilled lemon chicken or garlic bread for soaking up any extra sauce. A chilled glass of crisp white wine like Pinot Grigio or Sauvignon Blanc complements the tangy feta and sweet tomatoes perfectly making this an excellent choice for casual entertaining.

Frequently Asked Questions

→ Can I use a different type of cheese?

Yes, you can substitute Feta with other soft cheeses like goat cheese or ricotta, although the flavor will differ slightly.

→ Can I use cherry tomatoes instead of grape tomatoes?

Absolutely! Cherry tomatoes will work just as well and provide a similar burst of flavor when baked.

→ What pasta works best for this dish?

Bow tie pasta is used in this recipe, but penne, fusilli, or any pasta that holds sauce well would be great options too.

→ How can I make this dish vegan?

To make it vegan, replace the Feta with a plant-based cheese alternative and ensure your pasta is egg-free.

→ Can I add other ingredients to this dish?

Yes, feel free to add ingredients like roasted garlic, spinach, or chicken for additional flavor and variety.