Feta tomato pasta has taken kitchens by storm—and for good reason. This creamy, flavor-packed dish, inspired by the baked feta pasta recipe, is rich, tangy, and incredibly easy to make. With sweet cherry tomatoes bursting with juice, a golden block of feta melting into a luscious sauce, and perfectly cooked pasta tying it all together, it’s a dinner that feels both effortless and comforting. Minimal effort, bold flavor—this baked feta pasta is a must-try for pasta lovers and trend-watchers alike.
Table of Contents
Ingredients
This feta tomato pasta keeps things refreshingly simple with just a few high-quality ingredients. You likely have most of them on hand already. Here’s everything you need to make this creamy, flavorful dish that tastes like it came from your favorite Italian café.
Main Ingredients:
1 block of feta cheese (about 7–8 oz)
Use a whole block, not crumbled. Roasting a block of feta gives you that creamy, rich texture that melts perfectly into the sauce.
2 pints cherry tomatoes
Fresh cherry tomatoes work best here. They burst in the oven, releasing natural sweetness that balances the saltiness of the feta.
½ cup extra virgin olive oil
Olive oil is key. It helps roast the tomatoes and softens the feta into a silky sauce. Don’t skimp on it.
3 cloves garlic, minced
Adds bold flavor that pairs beautifully with the creamy cheese and sweet tomatoes.
10 oz short pasta (penne, fusilli, or farfalle)
Choose a shape that catches the sauce well. Cook the pasta al dente and reserve some pasta water before draining.
½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
For a gentle kick of heat. Adjust to your spice preference.
Salt and black pepper to taste
A pinch enhances the flavors. Remember that feta is already salty, so taste before adding more.
Fresh basil, chopped (for garnish)
A fresh finish that adds color and brightness to the final dish.
Optional Add-Ins:
Spinach or arugula – Stir in for a boost of greens.
Grilled chicken or shrimp – Add protein to make it a full meal.
Parmesan cheese – For extra creaminess and depth.
Pantry Tips:
If you don’t have cherry tomatoes, grape tomatoes also work.
Crumbled feta can be used in a pinch, but the block of feta cheese delivers better texture and flavor.
Save about ½ cup of pasta water—you’ll need it to loosen and blend the sauce perfectly.
Instructions
This baked feta tomato pasta comes together in a few simple steps with minimal prep. From roasting a block of feta to stirring everything into a creamy pasta sauce, here’s exactly how to make this viral dish at home.
Step 1: Preheat the oven
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). This ensures your tomatoes roast properly and the feta gets golden and soft.
Step 2: Assemble ingredients in the baking dish
In a medium-sized baking dish, add the cherry tomatoes and minced garlic. Drizzle with ½ cup olive oil and season with a pinch of salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes (if using). Toss gently to coat the tomatoes evenly.
Make space in the center of the dish and place the block of feta cheese right in the middle. Drizzle a little more olive oil over the top of the feta and crack some black pepper over it for extra flavor.
Step 3: Roast the feta and tomatoes
Place the dish in the oven and bake for 30–35 minutes, until the cherry tomatoes are blistered and juicy, and the feta cheese is golden and slightly melted.
Step 4: Cook the pasta
While the tomatoes and feta are roasting, boil the pasta in a large pot of salted water. Cook until al dente according to the package instructions. Before draining, save about ½ cup of pasta water and set it aside. This will help you create a creamy sauce later.
Drain the pasta and keep it warm.
Step 5: Create the sauce
Once the feta and tomatoes are roasted, remove the dish from the oven. Use a spoon or fork to gently mash the feta and bursting cherry tomatoes together. Stir everything until a creamy sauce forms. The olive oil and tomato juices will blend with the melted feta for a rich, velvety texture.
Step 6: Add the pasta
Add the cooked pasta directly into the baking dish with the sauce. Toss well to coat every piece. If the sauce feels too thick, add a splash of reserved pasta water—just a tablespoon at a time—until it reaches your desired consistency.
Step 7: Finish and serve
Top the dish with fresh basil, a drizzle of olive oil, or a bit of grated Parmesan if you like. Serve the baked feta pasta hot, straight from the dish, or plate it with extra herbs for a bright, fresh touch.
Pro Tips and Variations
This feta tomato pasta is easy to master, but a few thoughtful touches can take it from good to unforgettable. Whether you’re adjusting for dietary needs or dialing up the flavor, here are some smart tips and fun variations to explore.
Pro Tips for Best Results
Use a block of feta, not crumbles
Crumbled feta doesn’t melt the same way. The block of feta cheese becomes soft and creamy when baked, giving you that signature velvety texture.
Roast until the tomatoes burst
Don’t underbake. The roasted cherry tomatoes should blister and release their juices to help form the creamy sauce.
Save your pasta water
A splash of reserved pasta water makes the sauce smooth and glossy. It also helps everything stick to the pasta better.
Don’t overcook the pasta
Cook pasta until al dente so it holds its shape when tossed in the hot sauce.
Taste before adding salt
Feta is naturally salty. Season lightly, then adjust at the end if needed.
Use high-quality olive oil
Since olive oil is a big part of the sauce, good quality matters. It adds richness and depth.
Delicious Variations to Try
Spicy Kick
Add extra red pepper flakes or a diced chili before baking for a fiery twist.
Creamy Upgrade
Stir in a tablespoon of cream cheese or a splash of heavy cream at the end for an ultra-silky sauce.
Greens and Veggies
Mix in fresh spinach, arugula, or roasted zucchini after baking for extra nutrition and color.
Protein Boost
Serve with grilled chicken, shrimp, or even crispy pancetta for a heartier meal.
Swap the Cheese
Not a fan of feta? Try goat cheese for a tangier flavor, or Boursin for a creamy garlic twist.
Low-Carb Option
Replace regular pasta with zucchini noodles or chickpea pasta for a lighter, gluten-free version.
Add Fresh Herbs
Top with fresh thyme, oregano, or chopped parsley for a Mediterranean flair.
Serving Suggestions
Feta tomato pasta is more than just a trendy dish—it’s a versatile meal that pairs beautifully with a wide variety of sides and enhancements. Whether you’re keeping it casual or dressing it up for guests, here’s how to serve it for the best experience.
Add a Fresh Side Salad
A crisp salad helps balance the richness of the feta cheese and roasted tomatoes. Try these simple combos:
– Arugula with lemon vinaigrette for a peppery, citrusy contrast.
– Cucumber and red onion salad with olive oil and vinegar for crunch and acidity.
– Greek salad with olives, cucumbers, and red peppers to stay in theme.
Serve with Bread
Scoop up every bit of that creamy sauce with a slice of:
– Warm garlic bread
– Crusty baguette
– Toasted pita wedges
You can even spread the leftovers on bread as a warm dip—it’s that good.
Drinks
Make your dinner complete with the right drink:
– Iced herbal tea with mint or lemon makes a fresh, non-alcoholic option.
– Sparkling water with a splash of lime adds a refreshing touch.
Turn It into a Full Meal
Add extra toppings or sides to make it more filling:
– Grilled chicken or pan-seared shrimp on top.
– Roasted vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, or eggplant mixed in.
– A side of baked meatballs for a protein-packed twist.
Presentation Tips
– Serve the pasta in a wide, shallow bowl to let the sauce coat evenly.
– Garnish with chopped fresh basil, a drizzle of olive oil, and a few whole roasted cherry tomatoes for visual appeal.
– Sprinkle Parmesan or toasted pine nuts for texture.
Conclusion
This shockingly good feta tomato pasta proves that great food doesn’t need to be complicated. With just a handful of ingredients—juicy cherry tomatoes, a block of feta cheese, olive oil, and pasta—you can create a rich, creamy dish that tastes like it came from a restaurant. It’s easy enough for a weeknight dinner but impressive enough to serve to guests.
Thanks to the viral TikTok baked feta pasta trend, this recipe has earned a spot in countless kitchens—and once you try it, you’ll understand why. The roasted cherry tomatoes burst with flavor, the feta cheese melts into a velvety sauce, and a splash of pasta water ties it all together for a perfectly creamy finish.
This pasta is customizable, crowd-pleasing, and unbelievably simple. Keep it classic or add your own twist with extra veggies, protein, or herbs. However you serve it, one thing’s certain—it will disappear fast.
Feta Tomato Pasta
Ingredients
Main Ingredients:
- 1 block of feta cheese about 7–8 oz
- Use a whole block not crumbled. Roasting a block of feta gives you that creamy, rich texture that melts perfectly into the sauce.
- 2 pints cherry tomatoes
- Fresh cherry tomatoes work best here. They burst in the oven releasing natural sweetness that balances the saltiness of the feta.
- ½ cup extra virgin olive oil
- Olive oil is key. It helps roast the tomatoes and softens the feta into a silky sauce. Don’t skimp on it.
- 3 cloves garlic minced
- Adds bold flavor that pairs beautifully with the creamy cheese and sweet tomatoes.
- 10 oz short pasta penne, fusilli, or farfalle
- Choose a shape that catches the sauce well. Cook the pasta al dente and reserve some pasta water before draining.
- ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes optional
- For a gentle kick of heat. Adjust to your spice preference.
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- A pinch enhances the flavors. Remember that feta is already salty so taste before adding more.
- Fresh basil chopped (for garnish)
- A fresh finish that adds color and brightness to the final dish.
Optional Add-Ins:
- Spinach or arugula – Stir in for a boost of greens.
- Grilled chicken or shrimp – Add protein to make it a full meal.
- Parmesan cheese – For extra creaminess and depth.
Instructions
Step 1: Preheat the oven
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). This ensures your tomatoes roast properly and the feta gets golden and soft.
Step 2: Assemble ingredients in the baking dish
- In a medium-sized baking dish, add the cherry tomatoes and minced garlic. Drizzle with ½ cup olive oil and season with a pinch of salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes (if using). Toss gently to coat the tomatoes evenly.
- Make space in the center of the dish and place the block of feta cheese right in the middle. Drizzle a little more olive oil over the top of the feta and crack some black pepper over it for extra flavor.
Step 3: Roast the feta and tomatoes
- Place the dish in the oven and bake for 30–35 minutes, until the cherry tomatoes are blistered and juicy, and the feta cheese is golden and slightly melted.
Step 4: Cook the pasta
- While the tomatoes and feta are roasting, boil the pasta in a large pot of salted water. Cook until al dente according to the package instructions. Before draining, save about ½ cup of pasta water and set it aside. This will help you create a creamy sauce later.
- Drain the pasta and keep it warm.
Step 5: Create the sauce
- Once the feta and tomatoes are roasted, remove the dish from the oven. Use a spoon or fork to gently mash the feta and bursting cherry tomatoes together. Stir everything until a creamy sauce forms. The olive oil and tomato juices will blend with the melted feta for a rich, velvety texture.
Step 6: Add the pasta
- Add the cooked pasta directly into the baking dish with the sauce. Toss well to coat every piece. If the sauce feels too thick, add a splash of reserved pasta water—just a tablespoon at a time—until it reaches your desired consistency.
Step 7: Finish and serve
- Top the dish with fresh basil, a drizzle of olive oil, or a bit of grated Parmesan if you like. Serve the baked feta pasta hot, straight from the dish, or plate it with extra herbs for a bright, fresh touch.
Notes
- Calories: 480 kcal
- Fat: 28g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Cholesterol: 40mg
- Sodium: 730mg
- Carbohydrates: 42g
- Fiber: 3g
- Sugars: 5g
- Protein: 14g
FAQs
Can feta pasta be reheated?
Yes, feta pasta can be reheated, and it still tastes great the next day. To keep the texture creamy, add a splash of water or olive oil before reheating. Warm it on the stovetop over low heat or microwave in short intervals, stirring in between to ensure even heating. Avoid overheating, as the feta can become grainy if cooked too long.
Does feta melt when heated?
Feta cheese doesn’t melt like mozzarella or cheddar. Instead, it softens and becomes creamy when baked, especially when surrounded by moisture-rich ingredients like cherry tomatoes and olive oil. That’s what makes this baked feta pasta recipe so special—it creates a rich sauce without needing cream or butter.
How to improve tomato feta pasta?
There are several easy ways to elevate your feta tomato pasta:
Add fresh herbs like basil, oregano, or parsley for brightness.
Incorporate extra vegetables such as spinach, zucchini, or roasted red peppers.
Stir in protein like grilled chicken, shrimp, or chickpeas.
Use high-quality ingredients, especially olive oil and feta. A good block of feta and sweet cherry tomatoes make all the difference.
Finish with texture, like a sprinkle of toasted pine nuts or grated Parmesan for extra depth.
