Description
Baked Feta Pasta is a creamy, tangy, and easy-to-make dish that became a viral sensation thanks to its simplicity and bold Mediterranean flavors. This recipe involves baking a block of feta cheese with cherry tomatoes, garlic, olive oil, and seasonings until it becomes soft and caramelized. Once mixed with cooked pasta, the ingredients transform into a luscious, rich sauce that coats every bite perfectly.
Originating from Finland as Uunifetapasta, this dish gained worldwide fame after being popularized on TikTok and social media. It requires minimal ingredients, making it a go-to option for a quick, satisfying, and customizable meal. Whether you stick to the classic version or add proteins, vegetables, or spice, Baked Feta Pasta is a foolproof way to enjoy a gourmet-quality dish with minimal effort.
Ingredients
- 2 pt.cherry or grape tomatoes
- 1shallot, quartered
- 3cloves garlic, smashed
- 1/2 cupextra-virgin olive oil, divided
- Kosher salt
- Pinch of crushed red pepper flakes
- 1(8-oz.) block feta
- 3sprigs fresh thyme
- 10 oz.pasta
- Zest of 1 lemon (optional)
- Fresh basil leaves, for serving
Instructions
- Step 1Preheat oven to 400°. In a large ovenproof skillet or medium baking dish, combine tomatoes, shallot, garlic, and all but 1 Tbsp. oil; season with salt and red pepper flakes and toss to combine.
- Step 2Place feta into center of tomato mixture and drizzle with reserved 1 Tsp. oil. Scatter thyme sprigs over tomatoes.
- Step 3Bake until tomatoes are bursting and feta is golden on top, 40 to 45 minutes.
- Step 4Meanwhile, in a large pot of boiling salted water, cook pasta, stirring occasionally, until al dente according to package directions. Reserve 1/2 c. pasta water before draining.
- Step 5To skillet, add cooked pasta, reserved pasta water, and lemon zest (if using) and stir until combined. Top with basil.
Notes
1. Use High-Quality Feta
- Opt for authentic Greek feta (made from sheep’s milk) for the best creamy texture and rich tangy flavor. Avoid pre-crumbled feta, as it doesn’t melt as well.
2. Choose Sweet, Ripe Tomatoes
- Cherry or grape tomatoes work best because they burst when baked, creating a naturally sweet and juicy sauce. If your tomatoes are not in season, add a teaspoon of honey or sugar to enhance their sweetness.
3. Adjust the Creaminess
- If the sauce is too thick, stir in reserved pasta water, a drizzle of olive oil, or a splash of cream to make it silkier.
4. Enhance the Flavor
- Adding fresh basil, oregano, chili flakes, lemon zest, or sun-dried tomatoes can bring out deeper flavors and complexity.
5. Best Pasta Choices
- Short pasta shapes like penne, fusilli, or farfalle hold the sauce well, but long pasta like spaghetti or linguine can create a smoother bite.
6. Storage & Reheating Tips
- Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days in the refrigerator.
- Reheat on the stovetop with a splash of water or olive oil to bring back the creamy consistency.
7. Customization Options
- Add grilled chicken, shrimp, or crispy bacon for extra protein.
- Stir in spinach, mushrooms, zucchini, or bell peppers for more nutrients.
- Use vegan feta or zucchini noodles for dairy-free or low-carb alternatives.