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!
![- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken thighs - 1/2 cup cornstarch - 1/4 teaspoon black pepper - 1 cup panko breadcrumbs - 1/4 cup sesame seeds - 1/4 cup soy sauce - 1/4 cup honey - 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar - 1 teaspoon ginger paste - 1 garlic clove, minced - Green onions, finely sliced - Toasted sesame seeds To make crispy sesame chicken, gather all your ingredients first. This helps you stay organized and enjoy the cooking process. The chicken thighs offer a tender bite while the cornstarch provides that essential crunch. Panko breadcrumbs and sesame seeds create a delightful texture and nutty flavor. For the sauce, soy sauce and honey blend perfectly. Apple cider vinegar adds a hint of tang, while ginger and garlic bring warmth and depth. These simple ingredients make a sauce that truly elevates your dish. Don’t forget your garnishes! Finely sliced green onions and toasted sesame seeds add a pop of color and flavor. When you plate your dish, it not only looks great but also tastes amazing. This is the key to making crispy sesame chicken irresistible. For the detailed steps on how to combine these ingredients, check out the Full Recipe. To start, mix the dry ingredients. In a bowl, combine 1/2 cup cornstarch, 1/2 teaspoon salt, and 1/4 teaspoon black pepper. This mix will help the chicken get crispy. Next, bread the chicken. Take 1 lb of cut chicken thighs. Dip each piece into the cornstarch mix, then into a beaten large egg. Finally, coat each piece with a mix of 1 cup panko breadcrumbs and 1/4 cup sesame seeds. Make sure the coating is even. This step is key for that crunchy texture. Now, heat oil for frying. In a deep skillet, add enough vegetable oil to cover the chicken pieces. Heat it over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, fry the chicken in batches. Cook for about 5-7 minutes until each piece is golden brown and crispy. Drain the fried chicken on paper towels. This keeps it from getting soggy. For the sauce, grab a separate saucepan. Combine 1/4 cup soy sauce, 1/4 cup honey, 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar, 1 teaspoon ginger paste, and a minced garlic clove. Heat the mixture over medium heat. Stir and bring it to a simmer for 3-4 minutes. This thickens your sauce and blends the flavors nicely. Once the chicken is fried, drizzle or toss the sauce over it. Make sure each piece is well-coated. Enjoy your crispy sesame chicken! For more details, check out the Full Recipe. To make your chicken crispy, use cornstarch and panko breadcrumbs. Cornstarch helps absorb moisture, while panko adds crunch. - Use 1/2 cup of cornstarch. - Mix it with 1/2 teaspoon salt and 1/4 teaspoon black pepper. - Coat each chicken piece well before frying. Frying temperature matters too. Heat your vegetable oil to medium-high. The right heat cooks the chicken fast and keeps it crispy. - Fry in small batches. - Cook each batch for about 5-7 minutes. - Drain on paper towels to remove excess oil. To boost flavor, adjust the sauce. This sauce is a mix of sweet and savory, but you can change it to your taste. - Add more honey for sweetness or soy sauce for saltiness. - Try using fresh garlic and ginger. Fresh ingredients add a lively taste and aroma. Use 1 teaspoon of ginger paste and 1 minced garlic clove in your sauce. This makes it more vibrant and tasty. How you serve your chicken makes a big difference. For an attractive plate, use a large platter. - Drizzle extra sauce over the chicken. - Garnish with sliced green onions and toasted sesame seeds for color and texture. This makes your Crispy Sesame Chicken look as good as it tastes! For more tips and the full recipe, check the [Full Recipe]. {{image_2}} You can make Crispy Sesame Chicken lighter. Instead of frying, try baking. Bake the chicken at 400°F for 20-25 minutes. This method keeps the crunch without extra oil. If you want low-sodium soy sauce, use tamari or coconut aminos. Both give a similar flavor but with less salt. You can add spices to the coating for extra flavor. Try paprika or cayenne for a little heat. A pinch of garlic powder adds a nice touch too. To mix things up, use different sauces. Sweet chili sauce or teriyaki sauce can give a fun twist. You can also try a spicy mustard sauce for a zing. Pair your Crispy Sesame Chicken with tasty sides. Steamed broccoli or stir-fried vegetables work well. They add color and nutrition. You can also serve it with rice. Jasmine or brown rice both complement the dish. For a fresh touch, add a side salad with sesame dressing. Enjoy your meal with a mix of flavors and textures! To keep your Crispy Sesame Chicken fresh, refrigerate it right away. Place the chicken in a shallow container. This helps it cool down faster. Cover the container tightly with a lid or plastic wrap. This keeps the chicken from drying out. Use it within three days for the best taste. Use airtight containers for storing leftovers. Glass containers work great since they do not stain. You can also use BPA-free plastic containers. Make sure they are safe for food use. Label your containers with the date. This helps you track how long they have been stored. To enjoy your Crispy Sesame Chicken again, you need to reheat it carefully. The oven is the best choice. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the chicken on a baking sheet. Heat for about 10-15 minutes. This keeps the chicken crispy. The microwave is faster but can make the chicken soggy. If you must use it, heat in short bursts. Check after every 30 seconds to avoid overcooking. Yes, you can freeze Crispy Sesame Chicken! First, let it cool completely. Then, wrap each piece tightly in plastic wrap. Place the wrapped pieces in a freezer bag. Squeeze out the air and seal it. This prevents freezer burn. To thaw, move the chicken to the fridge overnight. This keeps it safe. You can also use the microwave for a quick thaw. Use the defrost setting, checking often. Once thawed, reheat in the oven for the best results. Enjoy your delicious meal again! For the complete recipe, check out the Full Recipe section. You can use chicken breasts as a substitute for chicken thighs. They are leaner but still work well. You may also try chicken tenders, which are tender and cook quickly. For vegetarian options, consider using tofu or tempeh. They absorb flavors well and provide a nice texture when cooked. Look for a golden brown color on the chicken. The coating should be crispy and firm. You can use a meat thermometer to check the temperature. Chicken should reach 165°F (75°C) to be safe to eat. If you do not have a thermometer, cut into a piece. The meat should be white with no pink inside. Yes, you can make the sauce in advance. Just mix all the sauce ingredients in a saucepan. Cook it over medium heat until it thickens slightly. Allow it to cool, then store it in an airtight container. When ready to use, reheat it gently on the stove. You can also microwave it for a quick option. This blog post recaps the steps to make Crispy Sesame Chicken. We covered the ingredients, cooking methods, and tips for perfect results. Whether you fry or bake, the key is achieving crispiness. I shared flavorful sauce ideas and garnishing tips to enhance your dish. Remember to store and reheat leftovers properly for best taste. With simple variations, you can easily adapt this recipe. Enjoy your cooking adventure with these helpful insights, and impress everyone with your delicious meal!](https://dailydishly.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/12f93f23-c091-4c02-8196-bfe71a37e11f-768x768.webp)
