If you’ve been on TikTok lately, you’ve likely seen the viral sensation that is baked feta pasta; it’s easy to make, incredibly delicious, and perfect for a cozy dinner at home. Let’s dive into this trendy recipe and see why everyone is raving about it.
This dish went viral for a reason! Creamy, cheesy, and oh-so-delicious, this pasta is perfect for a cozy dinner. Just bake a block of feta with cherry tomatoes, add some pasta, and voilà!
Why Baked Feta Pasta?
The beauty of baked feta pasta lies in its simplicity. With just a handful of ingredients, you can create a rich and flavorful pasta dish that tastes like it took hours to prepare. The magic happens in the oven, where a block of feta cheese and cherry tomatoes transform into a creamy, savory sauce that coats every piece of pasta perfectly.
Recipe Time!
Ingredients
- 1 block of feta cheese (about 200g)
- 2 pints cherry tomatoes
- 1/4 cup extra-virgin olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for a bit of heat)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 10 oz pasta (such as penne or rigatoni)
- Fresh basil leaves, for garnish
Instructions
1. Preheat the Oven:
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Prepare the Baking Dish:
- In a large baking dish, place the block of feta cheese in the center.
- Surround the feta with the cherry tomatoes.
- Drizzle the olive oil over the tomatoes and feta, ensuring everything is well-coated.
3. Season:
- Sprinkle the minced garlic, dried oregano, red pepper flakes, salt, and pepper over the feta and tomatoes.
4. Bake:
- Bake in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes, or until the tomatoes are burst and the feta is golden and creamy.
5. Cook the Pasta:
- While the feta and tomatoes are baking, cook the pasta according to package instructions. Reserve 1/2 cup of pasta water before draining.
6. Combine:
- Remove the baking dish from the oven. Use a fork to mash the feta and tomatoes together until you have a creamy sauce.
- Add the cooked pasta to the baking dish, along with a splash of the reserved pasta water. Mix until the pasta is evenly coated with the sauce.
7. Garnish and Serve:
- Top with fresh basil leaves and an extra drizzle of olive oil, if desired.
- Serve immediately and enjoy the rich, creamy goodness.
Tips and Tricks
- Add Protein: For a heartier meal, add grilled chicken, shrimp, or cooked sausage.
- Vegetarian Twist: Include extra veggies like spinach, zucchini, or bell peppers for added nutrients.
- Spice it Up: If you love a bit of heat, add more red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce.
- Herb Swap: Substitute dried oregano with fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary for a different flavor profile.
Final Thoughts
Baked feta pasta is more than just a viral trend—it’s a testament to the beauty of simple, delicious cooking. Whether you’re a seasoned chef or a kitchen novice, this recipe is sure to impress. The combination of creamy feta, sweet tomatoes, and perfectly cooked pasta is nothing short of magical.
Ready to jump on the baked feta pasta bandwagon? Try this recipe tonight and see why it’s become a global sensation. Happy cooking! 🍝✨
Feel free to share your own variations and tips in the comments below. Let’s spread the love for this incredible dish!
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