Feta Fiesta: The Viral Baked Pasta Delight

Introduction

Ready to make a dish so irresistible that even your grandma’s lasagna might get jealous? Say hello to Baked Feta Pasta—the recipe that’s been causing a riot on TikTok and in kitchens worldwide. With just a handful of ingredients, you’ll whip up a dinner that’s not only delicious but also worthy of its own viral moment. Grab your apron and let’s get cheesy!

Key Takeaways

• Simplicity is Key: Minimal ingredients, maximum flavor—this dish is proof that less is more.
• Flavor Explosion: Creamy feta, sweet tomatoes, and aromatic garlic come together to create a sauce you’ll want to drink.
• Customizable: Don’t be afraid to get creative—add veggies, swap cheeses, or throw in some extra herbs.
• Quick & Easy: Perfect for busy nights when you want something fabulous without the fuss.

Photo bySam Miller

Ingredients

• 1 pound pasta (bowtie or any fun shape that holds sauce like a pro)
• ½ cup extra virgin olive oil, plus extra for drizzling (because we’re fancy like that)
• 2 pints (20 oz) cherry tomatoes (go for the juiciest you can find)
• 1 (8-ounce) block of feta cheese (the Greek stuff—accept no imitations)
• 4 garlic cloves, finely chopped (because garlic is life)
• 2 pinches of red pepper flakes (for that sassy kick)
• 1 large handful of fresh basil leaves, roughly torn (bonus points if it’s from your garden)
• Salt and pepper, to taste (because bland is banned)

Directions

1. Preheat the Party (a.k.a. Your Oven)

Set your oven to 400°F (200°C) and let it heat up like it’s getting ready for a Saturday night out. This is where the magic begins.

2. Show Some Love to the Tomatoes

Grab a baking dish, toss in your cherry tomatoes, and coat them with ½ cup of olive oil. Sprinkle with salt and give them a good toss. They should be glistening like they just stepped out of a spa.

3. Feta Center Stage

Plop that block of feta right in the middle of the dish, surrounded by the tomatoes. Drizzle with a bit more olive oil and sprinkle on those red pepper flakes. Think of it as accessorizing your cheese—make it look good!

4. Bake and Shake

Slide that dish into the oven and let it bake for 30 minutes. Crank up the heat to 450°F (230°C) for the last 5-10 minutes to give everything a little extra char. You’re aiming for blistered tomatoes and golden, slightly crispy feta.

5. Pasta Time!

While your feta and tomatoes are doing their thing, cook your pasta until it’s al dente (fancy talk for “not mushy”). Save about 1 cup of pasta water before you drain it—this starchy liquid gold will help make your sauce silky smooth.

6. Sauce It Up

Take the dish out of the oven, add the chopped garlic and basil, and stir it all together. Smash those tomatoes and mix in the feta until you’ve got a creamy, dreamy sauce. Add in your pasta and toss until every piece is coated in cheesy goodness. If the sauce feels a bit thick, drizzle in some of that reserved pasta water until it’s just right.

7. Serve and Devour

Dish out your pasta, garnish with extra basil if you’re feeling fancy, and dig in. This is comfort food at its finest—simple, satisfying, and oh-so-delicious.

Photo bySam Miller

Side Dish Ideas

• Garlic Bread: Because carbs on carbs is always a good idea.
• Simple Green Salad: Toss some mixed greens with a light vinaigrette to balance out the richness.
• Roasted Veggies: Add a little extra nutrition to the plate with roasted zucchini, bell peppers, or asparagus.

Nutritional Facts (per serving)

• Calories: 450-500 (depending on how much you resist the urge to double the feta)
• Protein: 14g
• Carbs: 60g
• Fat: 18g
• Fiber: 4g
• Sugar: 6g

Prep & Cook Time

• Prep Time: 10 minutes (barely enough time to finish your glass of wine)
• Cook Time: 35-40 minutes (just enough time for a dance party in the kitchen)
• Total Time: 45-50 minutes

Photo bySam Miller

Conclusion

And there you have it—the dish that’s more popular than a cat video on the internet. Baked Feta Pasta is everything you want in a meal: quick, easy, and ridiculously tasty. Whether you’re cooking for yourself or feeding a crowd, this recipe is guaranteed to impress. So, what are you waiting for? Get cooking and let the feta fiesta begin!