TikTok Baked Feta Pasta Quick and Tasty Recipe

Are you ready to elevate your dinner game? TikTok’s baked feta pasta is not just a trend; it’s a quick, tasty dish that anyone can whip up. With simple ingredients like pasta, feta cheese, and fresh tomatoes, this recipe packs a flavor punch. Follow my easy steps, and you’ll impress friends and family in no time. Let’s dive into this delicious adventure and create a meal that will have everyone asking for seconds!
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
For this dish, I love using these key items:
– 200g pasta (penne or fusilli work best)
– 200g feta cheese
– 2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved
– 4 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup olive oil
These main ingredients create a creamy and rich flavor. The feta melts beautifully and mingles with the tomatoes, forming a delicious sauce.
Seasonings
To elevate the taste, I add:
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
– 1 teaspoon dried oregano
– 1 teaspoon chili flakes (optional)
The salt and pepper bring out the flavors, while oregano adds a nice herbal note. If you like heat, the chili flakes are great!
Garnishes
Finally, I finish the dish with:
– Fresh basil leaves
– Grated Parmesan cheese
The fresh basil gives a pop of color and flavor. The Parmesan adds a salty richness, making each bite even better.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Preparation
Preheating the Oven
Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). This step is important. It ensures your dish cooks evenly.
Preparing the Baking Dish
Next, take a large baking dish. Add 2 cups of halved cherry tomatoes to the dish. Then, mince 4 cloves of garlic and add them too. Pour in 1/4 cup of olive oil. Sprinkle in 1 teaspoon of salt, 1/2 teaspoon of black pepper, and 1 teaspoon of dried oregano. If you like heat, add 1 teaspoon of chili flakes. Mix everything well to combine.
Baking Process
Combining Ingredients
In the center of your tomato mixture, place 200g of feta cheese. Drizzle a little olive oil on top. This will help the feta melt nicely.
Baking Time and Temperature
Now, put the dish in your preheated oven. Bake for about 25-30 minutes. The feta should be soft and golden, and the tomatoes will burst and become saucy.
Final Steps
Mixing Pasta with Sauce
While the feta and tomatoes bake, cook 200g of your choice of pasta. Penne or fusilli work well. Cook until al dente, then drain and set aside. Once the baking is done, take the dish out. Use a fork to mash the feta and mix it with the tomatoes. This creates a creamy sauce.
Serving Suggestions
Add your cooked pasta to the dish. Toss everything together until the pasta is coated in the sauce. Serve hot. Top with fresh basil leaves and a sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese for extra flavor. Enjoy your creamy baked feta pasta!
Tips & Tricks
Perfecting the Recipe
Choosing the Right Pasta
I love using penne or fusilli in this dish. These shapes hold the sauce well. You can also try other pasta types you have at home. Just cook it until al dente for the best texture.
Adjusting Spice Levels
If you like heat, add more chili flakes. Start with half a teaspoon. You can always add more later. If you prefer a milder dish, skip the chili flakes. You can still enjoy the rich flavors.
Enhancing Flavor
Additional Ingredients to Consider
Feel free to add veggies like spinach or bell peppers. They add color and nutrition. You can also toss in some olives or sun-dried tomatoes for a punch of flavor. All these extras work well with the creamy sauce.
Serving and Pairing Suggestions
Serve the pasta hot, topped with fresh basil and grated Parmesan. It pairs nicely with a simple green salad. A crisp white wine complements this dish well too. Enjoy every bite!
Variations
Ingredient Swaps
Vegan Alternatives
You can easily make this dish vegan. Replace feta cheese with a plant-based feta. Many brands offer great taste without dairy. Use nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor. You can also add cashew cream for creaminess.
Other Cheese Recommendations
If you want to try different cheeses, go for goat cheese or ricotta. Goat cheese adds a tangy taste. Ricotta gives a creamy texture. Both blend well with the tomatoes.
Flavor Variations
Adding Vegetables or Proteins
Feel free to add more veggies. Spinach, zucchini, or bell peppers work nicely. For protein, consider cooked chicken or chickpeas. Both boost nutrition and flavor.
Experimenting with Different Herbs
You can switch up the herbs too. Try thyme or rosemary for a different taste. Fresh parsley or dill also adds a nice touch. Don’t be afraid to mix and match flavors!
Storage Info
How to Store Leftovers
To store your baked feta pasta, let it cool first. Place it in an airtight container. This helps keep it fresh. Store it in the fridge for up to three days. If you need to keep it longer, consider freezing it. Just make sure it is in a freezer-safe container. You can freeze it for up to two months. When you’re ready to eat, thaw it overnight in the fridge.
Reheating Instructions
Reheating baked feta pasta can be easy. You want to keep the texture nice. The best way is to use your oven. Preheat it to 350°F (175°C). Place the pasta in an oven-safe dish. Cover it with foil to keep it moist. Heat for about 15-20 minutes. You can also use a microwave. Just add a splash of water to keep it creamy. Heat in short bursts, stirring in between. Enjoy your pasta just like it was fresh!
FAQs
Common Questions
Can I use a different type of cheese?
Yes, you can use other cheeses. Goat cheese or ricotta can work well too. They give a nice creamy texture. Just keep in mind that the flavor will change a bit.
How long does baked feta pasta last in the fridge?
Baked feta pasta lasts about 3 to 5 days in the fridge. Make sure to store it in an airtight container. This helps keep it fresh and tasty.
Cooking Queries
Can I prepare baked feta pasta ahead of time?
You can prep the ingredients ahead but bake it fresh. Mix the tomatoes, garlic, and oil, then cover and chill. Add the feta just before you bake it.
Is this dish suitable for freezing?
Baked feta pasta can be frozen but may lose some creaminess. Cool it completely before freezing in a container. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
This baked feta pasta recipe is simple and fun. You learned about key ingredients like pasta, cheese, and tomatoes. We covered steps to prepare and bake it perfectly. Tips can help you choose the right pasta and add flavors. You can try variations with vegan swaps or extra veggies. Storing leftovers and reheating properly keeps your dish tasty.
Now, get ready to enjoy a delicious meal any night!
