If you want a pasta dish that feels gourmet but comes together with minimal effort, this Baked Feta Tomato Pasta is a recipe you will return to again and again. Bursting with the sweetness of roasted tomatoes and the rich creaminess of baked feta, it’s a dish that requires almost no hands-on work yet delivers impressive flavor. I first made this on a busy evening when I wanted something comforting but fuss-free, and the combination of melty feta and jammy tomatoes made it instantly unforgettable. The oven does nearly all the work, and the result is a velvety, tangy, herb-scented sauce that clings beautifully to your favorite pasta.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This Baked Feta Tomato Pasta is the definition of simple, wholesome comfort food. With just a handful of ingredients, it transforms into a rich, creamy sauce with vibrant Mediterranean flavors. You’ll love how the tomatoes burst and caramelize in the oven while the feta softens into a smooth, luxurious base. It’s incredibly customizable—add chicken, shrimp, spinach, or use different pastas—yet perfect just as it is. Whether for weeknight meals, casual entertaining, or meal prep, this dish is fast, satisfying, and guaranteed to impress.
Ingredients
(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)
Cherry or grape tomatoes – They roast beautifully and become sweet, juicy, and jammy.
Block feta cheese – The key to the creamy sauce; a block melts more smoothly than crumbled.
Olive oil – Helps the tomatoes blister and the feta brown slightly.
Garlic – Adds aromatic depth once mixed into the roasted feta and tomatoes.
Pasta – Any short pasta works, but I often use rotini or penne to catch the sauce.
Salt and black pepper – Essential for seasoning and enhancing the flavors.
Fresh basil – Adds brightness and freshness to the finished dish.
Red pepper flakes – Optional but adds gentle heat that complements the creamy sauce.
Lemon zest (optional) – Provides a light, citrusy lift to balance the richness.
Directions
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). In a baking dish, add cherry tomatoes and drizzle generously with olive oil. Season with salt, pepper, and optional red pepper flakes. Toss to coat.
Place the block of feta in the center of the dish, nestled within the tomatoes. Drizzle a bit more olive oil on top of the feta. Bake for 30–35 minutes until the tomatoes burst and the feta becomes soft and lightly golden.
While the feta bakes, cook your pasta according to package directions until al dente. Reserve a cup of pasta water, then drain.
Remove the baking dish from the oven and add minced garlic directly to the hot mixture. Use a spoon to mash the feta and tomatoes into a creamy sauce. Add cooked pasta and toss well, adding reserved pasta water as needed to reach desired creaminess.
Finish by stirring in fresh basil and optional lemon zest. Serve warm with extra basil on top.
Equipment needed :
Must-Have Tools to Get Rolling
Here’s what you’ll want to have on hand:
Silicone Spatula – Durable, heat-resistant silicone spatula perfect for mixing, scraping, and spreading. Gentle on non-stick cookware and easy to clean.
Large pot – You’ll need this to boil the whole cabbage head and soften the leaves.
large bowl –Spacious, durable large bowl ideal for mixing, serving, or food preparation. Made from sturdy material and easy to clean.
Sharp knife – For coring the cabbage and slicing out the thick stem in each leaf. A paring knife works best.
Mixing bowl – A big bowl makes it easier to combine your meat and rice filling evenly.
Cutting board – For prepping cabbage leaves and rolling them like a pro.
9×13-inch baking dish – Ideal size to fit your rolled cabbage leaves snugly and prevent them from unraveling.
knife – A sharp, durable kitchen knife perfect for slicing, chopping, and dicing with ease.
Servings and timing
This recipe serves 4 people. Prep time is 5 minutes, baking time is 35 minutes, and pasta cooking takes about 10 minutes. Total time: approximately 45 minutes.
Storage/reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop with a splash of water or olive oil to revive the sauce. Freezing is not recommended, as the feta sauce may lose its creamy consistency after thawing.
Variations and Customizations
Spinach Feta Pasta – Stir in fresh spinach after baking until wilted.
Chicken Feta Pasta – Add cooked shredded chicken for extra protein.
Shrimp Version – Add seasoned shrimp to the baking dish for the last 10 minutes.
Herbed Delight – Add oregano, thyme, or rosemary for a more Mediterranean flavor.
Roasted Red Pepper Twist – Add chopped roasted peppers for sweetness and depth.
Creamier Version – Stir in a splash of heavy cream or cream cheese after baking.
Pesto Finish – Add a spoonful of basil pesto for extra richness.
Olive & Artichoke Mix – Add chopped olives and artichokes for a Greek-inspired version.
Gluten-Free Option – Use your preferred gluten-free pasta.
Spicy Tomato Feta Pasta – Add extra red pepper flakes or a spoonful of chili paste.
FAQs
Can I use crumbled feta instead of a block?
A block melts more evenly, but crumbled feta works in a pinch.
Can I make this dairy-free?
Use a dairy-free feta alternative; textures may vary.
Can I use canned tomatoes?
Fresh tomatoes give the best texture, but canned cherry tomatoes can work.
Does the pasta need to be added immediately?
Yes, adding it while the feta is hot helps create a smoother sauce.
Can I add protein?
Chicken, shrimp, chickpeas, and sausage all work well.
Do I need to stir the garlic in raw?
Yes, the heat from the dish gently cooks it without burning.
Can I add vegetables?
Absolutely—zucchini, spinach, or mushrooms are excellent additions.
What pasta shapes work best?
Short shapes like rotini, penne, farfalle, or shells hold the sauce well.
Can I make it ahead?
It’s best fresh, but leftovers reheat well with added liquid.
How do I prevent the sauce from becoming too thick?
Use reserved pasta water to loosen it to your liking.
Conclusion
This Baked Feta Tomato Pasta is a beautifully simple, comforting dish that delivers big flavor with minimal effort. Creamy, tangy, and bursting with roasted tomato goodness, it’s the perfect weeknight dinner or crowd-pleasing meal for casual gatherings. With endless customization options and a naturally rich, velvety sauce, it’s no surprise this dish has become a modern classic. Once you try it, it will quickly earn a permanent spot in your recipe rotation.
Hungry for more? Visit our website for full recipes and follow us on Pinterest for daily foodie inspo you’ll love to pin!