Irresistible Tomato Feta Pasta Bake Recipe to Savor

Imagine a dish so delightful that it could make even the pickiest eater swoon. The tomato feta pasta bake is a harmonious blend of tangy tomatoes, creamy feta cheese, and al dente pasta, all baked to perfection. The aroma wafting through your kitchen will draw everyone in like moths to a flame, leaving them eagerly anticipating the first bite.

I still remember the first time I whipped up this comforting classic for a casual family dinner. It was one of those nights when I had no idea what to make, and my pantry was playing hide-and-seek with ingredients. That’s when this gem came into play—an instant hit that turned our mundane evening into a culinary adventure worth repeating. Perfect for cozy weeknights or festive gatherings, this dish is sure to impress without the fuss.

I’ll never forget how my family raved about this dish after I added it to our rotation; their smiles were priceless!

Essential Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

• Pasta: Use your favorite shape like penne or fusilli; they hold sauce beautifully.

• Cherry Tomatoes: Opt for ripe, juicy tomatoes for that sweet burst of flavor.

• Feta Cheese: Crumbled feta adds creaminess and a salty kick; don’t skimp on quality.

• Olive Oil: Choose extra virgin olive oil for its superior flavor and health benefits.

• Garlic: Fresh garlic cloves give an aromatic punch; avoid those jarred versions if you can.

• Fresh Basil: Add fresh basil leaves at the end for a fragrant finish; it’s like summer on a plate!

• Salt and Pepper: Essential for seasoning; adjust according to your taste preferences.

• Parmesan Cheese (optional): Grated Parmesan enhances flavor; sprinkle some on top before serving if desired.

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

Let’s Make it together

Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Spray a baking dish with nonstick cooking spray before diving into the fun part—mixing!

Cook the Pasta

Start by boiling salted water in a large pot. Add your chosen pasta and cook until al dente, usually about 8-10 minutes. Drain and set aside while you prepare the flavorful base.

Sauté the Aromatics

In a skillet over medium heat, drizzle olive oil and toss in minced garlic. Sauté until fragrant—about 1 minute—being careful not to let it burn. Your kitchen should start smelling heavenly!

Add Tomatoes and Feta

Next, add halved cherry tomatoes to the skillet along with crumbled feta cheese. Stir gently until everything is coated in deliciousness. Let it simmer for about 5 minutes until the tomatoes soften.

Combine with Pasta

Now comes the fun part! Mix your cooked pasta into the skillet with tomato-feta goodness. Toss everything together until every piece of pasta gets its fair share of flavor.

Bake to Perfection

Transfer the mixture into your prepared baking dish and spread evenly. Bake uncovered for about 20-25 minutes or until bubbly and golden on top, tempting everyone nearby.

Add Fresh Basil & Serve!

Once out of the oven, sprinkle fresh basil over your beautifully baked creation. Serve hot and watch as your family dives in with gleeful abandon!

This tomato feta pasta bake not only satisfies hunger but also warms hearts—just ask my friends who can’t get enough!

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Start by roasting the tomatoes and feta together for maximum flavor, then cook the pasta while they bake. This sequence ensures everything melds beautifully.

Add Your Touch

Feel free to swap in different vegetables or proteins based on what you have. Toss in spinach or grilled chicken for added nutrition and texture.

Storing & Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat gently in the oven to maintain that lovely baked texture.

Sharing this recipe always reminds me of a cozy family gathering where laughter mingled with delicious aromas, leaving us all eager for seconds.

FAQ

Can I use frozen tomatoes for this recipe?

Yes, but fresh tomatoes provide better flavor and texture.

What type of pasta works best?

Any short pasta like penne or fusilli holds sauce well.

Is this dish vegetarian-friendly?

Absolutely! It’s naturally vegetarian and packed with flavor from the feta.

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Delightful Tomato Feta Pasta Bake

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Indulge in a comforting Tomato Feta Pasta Bake that combines tangy tomatoes, creamy feta, and pasta baked to perfection. This easy-to-make dish is not only visually appealing but also delivers incredible flavor, making it a perfect choice for weeknight dinners or festive gatherings. With its enticing aroma and satisfying taste, everyone will be coming back for seconds!

• Total Time: 40 minutes
• Yield: Serves 6

Ingredients

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• 2 cups penne pasta
• 2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved
• 1 cup crumbled feta cheese
• 3 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional)

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Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C) and prepare a baking dish with nonstick spray.
2. Boil salted water in a large pot; cook the penne until al dente (8-10 minutes). Drain.
3. In a skillet over medium heat, drizzle olive oil and sauté minced garlic for about 1 minute.
4. Add halved cherry tomatoes and crumbled feta to the skillet; simmer for 5 minutes until the tomatoes soften.
5. Combine the cooked pasta with the tomato-feta mixture; toss well.
6. Transfer to the baking dish, spread evenly, and bake uncovered for 20-25 minutes until bubbly and golden.
7. Top with fresh basil before serving.

• Author: Emily Harrison
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 25 minutes
• Category: Main
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: Mediterranean

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 cup (200g)
• Calories: 360
• Sugar: 6g
• Sodium: 680mg
• Fat: 18g
• Saturated Fat: 7g
• Unsaturated Fat: 8g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 35g
• Fiber: 3g
• Protein: 12g
• Cholesterol: 30mg