Introduction
In the ever-evolving world of food trends, few dishes have captured the global imagination quite like Baked Feta Pasta. This simple yet incredibly flavorful dish exploded in popularity on TikTok, becoming a viral sensation that had home cooks everywhere rushing to their kitchens. Its appeal lies in its minimal ingredients, ease of preparation, and undeniably delicious results. If you haven’t tried it yet, you’re in for a treat!
Why Baked Feta Pasta Went Viral
The beauty of Baked Feta Pasta lies in its simplicity and the magic that happens when a few humble ingredients are roasted together. The concept is straightforward: cherry tomatoes and a block of feta cheese are baked until the tomatoes burst and the feta becomes creamy and slightly golden. Olive oil, garlic, and herbs enhance the flavors, creating a rich sauce that coats the pasta perfectly.
It’s a dish that’s both comforting and surprisingly elegant, making it a hit for weeknight dinners and casual gatherings alike.
Ingredients
- 1 pint (about 2 cups) cherry or grape tomatoes
- 1 block (7-8 ounces) feta cheese
- 1/4 cup olive oil, plus more for drizzling
- 2-3 cloves garlic, minced (optional)
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano or Italian seasoning (optional)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
- 8 ounces pasta of your choice (such as penne, rotini, or spaghetti)
- Fresh basil leaves, for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- In a baking dish, combine the cherry tomatoes, olive oil, minced garlic (if using), dried oregano (if using), salt, and pepper. Toss to coat the tomatoes evenly.
- Place the block of feta cheese in the center of the baking dish, nestled among the tomatoes.
- Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the tomatoes have burst and are slightly caramelized, and the feta is soft and lightly golden.
- While the feta and tomatoes are baking, cook the pasta according to package directions until al dente. Reserve about 1/2 cup of the pasta water before draining.
- Remove the baking dish from the oven. Use a fork or spoon to gently mash the roasted feta and tomatoes together, creating a creamy sauce. If the sauce is too thick, add a tablespoon or two of the reserved pasta water to reach your desired consistency.
- Add the cooked pasta to the baking dish and toss to coat evenly with the sauce.
- Garnish with fresh basil leaves (if desired) and serve immediately.
Tips for Success
- Quality Ingredients: While the recipe is simple, using good quality feta cheese and ripe cherry tomatoes will make a big difference in flavor.
- Don’t Overcrowd: Ensure your baking dish is large enough so the tomatoes and feta have space to roast evenly. If they’re too crowded, they’ll steam instead of roast.
- Adjust Seasoning: Taste the sauce before adding the pasta and adjust salt and pepper as needed. You can also add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a little heat.
- Pasta Water is Key: Don’t skip reserving the pasta water! It’s starchy and helps create a smooth, emulsified sauce.
Conclusion
Baked Feta Pasta is more than just a viral trend; it’s a testament to how simple ingredients can come together to create something truly extraordinary. It’s quick, easy, and incredibly satisfying, making it a perfect meal for busy weeknights or when you’re craving something comforting and delicious.
Give it a try and see why this dish has captured the hearts (and stomachs) of so many!