Easy Baked Feta Pasta in 20 Minutes

Why Is Everyone Obsessed With This Viral One-Pan Wonder?

Have you ever stumbled upon a recipe so simple yet so addictive that it broke the internet? Enter Baked Feta Pasta—a dish that took TikTok by storm and still reigns supreme in kitchens worldwide. This creamy, tangy, and effortlessly delicious meal requires minimal prep, making it ideal for busy weeknights or impromptu gatherings. Blistered cherry tomatoes meld with salty feta into a luxe sauce that clings perfectly to pasta. It’s no wonder TikTok pasta recipes continue to inspire millions!

Ingredients & Kitchen Tools

What You’ll Need:

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  • 2 pts cherry tomatoes
  
  
  
  
  • 1 block (8 oz) feta cheese (sub vegan feta for dairy-free)
  
  
  
  
  • 1/2 cup extra-virgin olive oil
  
  
  
  
  • 3 garlic cloves, minced
  
  
  
  
  • 1 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
  
  
  
  
  • 12 oz pasta (penne, rigatoni, or gluten-free)
  
  
  
  
  • Fresh basil or parsley for garnish
  
  
  • Tools: 9×13 baking dish, large pot, mixing spoon

Prep & Cook Time

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  • Prep: 10 minutes
  
  
  
  
  • Cook: 35 minutes
  
  
  
  
  • Total: 45 minutes
  
  
  • Serves: 4-6

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. 
   
   • Prep: Preheat oven to 400°F. In a baking dish, combine tomatoes, garlic, and olive oil. Nestle feta in the center and sprinkle with pepper flakes.
   
   
   
   
   • Bake: Roast 30 minutes until tomatoes burst and feta turns golden.
   
   
   
   
   • Cook Pasta: Boil pasta until al dente. Reserve 1 cup pasta water.
   
   
   • Combine: Mash tomatoes and feta into a creamy sauce. Toss with pasta, adding pasta water as needed. Garnish and serve.

Pro Tip: For the signature creaminess seen in TikTok pasta recipes, use full-fat feta and don’t skimp on olive oil! This Baked Feta Pasta shines when ingredients meld into velvety perfection.

Nutritional Benefits / Advantages

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  • Rich in Lycopene: Cooked tomatoes boost antioxidant levels.
  
  
  
  
  • Protein-Packed: Feta provides calcium and protein.
  
  
  
  
  • Healthy Fats: Olive oil supports heart health.
  
  
  • Minimal Food Waste: Use up pantry staples!

Tips, Variations, or Substitutions

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  • Add Protein: Stir in shredded chicken or white beans.
  
  
  
  
  • Seasonal Twist: Swap tomatoes for roasted zucchini in summer.
  
  
  
  
  • Spice It Up: Add harissa paste for smokiness.
  
  
  • Small Kitchen Hack: Bake in a cast-iron skillet and serve directly!

Common Mistakes to Avoid

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  • Mistake: Using low-fat feta. Fix: Full-fat ensures creaminess.
  
  
  
  
  • Mistake: Overcooking pasta. Fix: Keep it al dente to avoid mushiness.
  
  
  • Mistake: Skipping pasta water. Fix: It’s key for silky sauce consistency.

Storage / Maintenance Tips

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  • Fridge: Store in an airtight container for 3-4 days.
  
  
  
  
  • Reheat: Add a splash of broth or water before microwaving.
  
  
  • Freezing: Not recommended—dairy may separate.

Ready to Join the Viral Pasta Party?

This Baked Feta Pasta is more than a trend—it’s a foolproof formula for comfort food magic. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or a kitchen newbie, this dish guarantees applause. Experiment with the variations above, and don’t forget to explore other TikTok pasta recipes for more inspiration. Share your creations with #CookingWithDemi!

FAQs

Q: Can I use a different cheese?
A: Feta works best, but goat cheese or ricotta can be substitutes.

Q: Can I make this ahead?
A: Assemble the baking dish, refrigerate, and bake just before serving.

Q: Is it freezer-friendly?
A: The sauce freezes well, but pasta should be cooked fresh.

Q: How can I make it vegan?
A: Use plant-based feta and nutritional yeast for cheesy flavor.