Baked Feta Pasta
A block of feta roasted with cherry tomatoes until bursting and creamy, then tossed with pasta — the TikTok sensation that broke the internet.
Details
Ingredients
- 400g penne or fusilli
- 500g cherry tomatoes
- 200g block of feta cheese
- 4 cloves garlic, whole
- 3 tbsp olive oil
- 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- Salt and black pepper
- Fresh basil leaves
- Reserved pasta water
Instructions
- 1
Preheat oven to 200°C (400°F). Spread cherry tomatoes in a baking dish. Add garlic cloves, drizzle with olive oil, and season with red pepper flakes, oregano, salt, and pepper. Toss to coat.
- 2
Place the block of feta in the centre of the tomatoes. Drizzle feta with more olive oil.
- 3
Bake for 25-30 minutes until the tomatoes are burst and blistered and the feta is soft and golden on top.
- 4
Meanwhile, cook pasta until al dente. Reserve 1/2 cup pasta water.
- 5
Mash the baked feta into the tomatoes with a fork, creating a creamy sauce. Add the pasta and toss, adding pasta water as needed for a silky coating.
- 6
Tear fresh basil over the top and serve immediately.
About This Recipe
The culinary phenomenon known as Baked Feta Pasta, a vibrant testament to the power of simplicity, shot to global fame from the kitchen of Finnish food blogger Jenni Häyrinen. While its viral moment on TikTok made it a household name, the concept of roasting cheese and tomatoes together echoes ancient Mediterranean traditions, marrying fresh produce with tangy dairy. What truly sets this dish apart is its 'dump-and-bake' method: the minimal effort required yields an incredibly rich, savory, and surprisingly creamy sauce. Key to its success is allowing the cherry tomatoes to burst and caramelize and the feta to soften and slightly brown around the edges, intensifying their natural sweetness and saltiness. These roasted components, once vigorously tossed with al dente pasta and a splash of starchy pasta water, emulsify into a luxurious sauce that clings beautifully. For best results, use a quality block of feta that will melt into a creamy texture, rather than crumbles, and don't skimp on a good olive oil. Variations abound, from adding fresh herbs like rosemary or thyme to incorporating other vegetables like bell peppers or zucchini, or even a different cheese such as goat cheese for a tangier profile. Serve this comforting pasta with a simple green salad and a slice of crusty bread to soak up every last drop of the delectable sauce.
Tips & Tricks
- • To achieve the best flavor and texture, ensure the feta is placed directly in the center of the baking dish, surrounded by the tomatoes. This allows it to soften and become gloriously creamy while the tomatoes burst and release their juices, creating a cohesive sauce base.
- • For an interesting variation, consider swapping a portion of the feta for goat cheese or even a mix of feta and cream cheese to create an even milder, richer sauce. Alternatively, add a handful of kalamata olives or sun-dried tomatoes before baking for an extra layer of Mediterranean flavor.
- • Leftovers of Baked Feta Pasta can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When reheating, add a splash of water or vegetable broth to the pan to help re-hydrate the sauce and maintain its creamy consistency, gently warming over low heat.
- • This robust and savory pasta pairs wonderfully with a light, crisp side salad dressed with a bright lemon vinaigrette to cut through the richness. A glass of chilled Sauvignon Blanc or a light-bodied rosé would also complement the Mediterranean flavors beautifully.
Nutrition Facts
Per serving (approximate)