
Crispy Baked Feta Pasta has taken over my weeknight dinner routine because it turns a handful of everyday kitchen staples into an indulgent meal with zero fuss. That golden feta surrounded by juicy tomatoes just begs to be stirred into hot pasta for an epic bowl of comfort everyone will love.
It became an instant hit in my house after just one bite and now has a permanent spot in our dinner rotation I first tried it after seeing it all over social media and realized why people are obsessed
Ingredients
- Pasta of your choice: look for shapes with ridges or curves to catch the creamy sauce
- Block feta cheese: not crumbled go for creamy Greek feta packed in brine for best results
- Cherry tomatoes: sweeter and less watery than large tomatoes pick ones that are plump and glossy
- Olive oil: use a good quality extra virgin olive oil to add fruitiness and richness
- Garlic cloves: freshly minced garlic brings depth avoid bottled or prechopped for best flavor
- Dried or fresh basil: fresh gives brighter flavor but dried works in a pinch
- Salt and pepper: round out the flavors always taste before adding extra salt since feta is salty
- Parmesan cheese (optional): adds bravado as a garnish if you love extra cheesiness
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Preheat Your Oven:
- Set your oven temperature to 400 degrees Fahrenheit or 200 degrees Celsius Give it time to come fully up to temperature before baking
- Arrange the Baking Dish:
- Place the cherry tomatoes in a baking dish Pour in the olive oil and toss the tomatoes with minced garlic salt and pepper until every tomato is shiny and well coated Move the tomatoes to the sides and nestle the block of feta cheese in the center
- Bake to Perfection:
- Slide the dish into the oven and let it bake for 25 to 30 minutes Watch for the tomatoes to split and release their juices and for the feta to turn gold edged and slightly crisp
- Boil the Pasta:
- While the oven does its job bring a big pot of salted water to a boil Drop in your pasta and stir so it does not stick Cook until tender but still with a bite then drain and set aside
- Mash and Mix the Sauce:
- Remove the hot baking dish from the oven Using a fork mash the feta block with the softened tomatoes right in the dish The goal is to create a creamy rosy sauce flecked with tomato bits and herby oil
- Combine and Serve:
- Add your cooked pasta directly into the baking dish Stir everything together gently so every bit of pasta gets coated with the tangy cheesy sauce Top with fresh basil and a shower of Parmesan cheese if you like

Cherry tomatoes are my favorite part for their sweet burst in every bite I remember when my youngest helped mash them and ended up eating half right from the pan The magic is in that scoop of creamy cheese holding it all together
Storage Tips
Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator They will last for up to three days For best texture add a tiny splash of water or milk when warming up so the sauce gets creamy again
Ingredient Substitutions
If you cannot find feta cheese try creamy goat cheese or a block of ricotta salata For a more mild version use crumbled queso fresco Sun dried tomatoes can add a punch of flavor when fresh tomatoes are not in season
Serving Suggestions
This pasta shines on its own but it also pairs well with a big leafy salad or garlic bread For extra substance toss in grilled chicken shrimp or roasted vegetables before serving
Cultural Context
This recipe took off online after a Finnish blogger created a similar version and it became a global trend Overnight it went from cozy Nordic kitchens to dinner tables everywhere I love how it brings people together with just a few simple ingredients
Frequently Asked Questions
- → What type of pasta works best for this dish?
Short pastas like penne, fusilli, or rigatoni absorb the creamy sauce well, but any pasta shape can be used.
- → Can I substitute the feta cheese?
Creamy cheeses like goat cheese or ricotta can work, but feta gives a unique tangy, salty flavor and signature texture.
- → How do I prevent the feta from drying out?
Coat the feta and tomatoes with olive oil, and don’t overbake. The cheese should be golden and lightly crisp, not overly dry.
- → Are there protein options to add?
Grilled chicken or shrimp are tasty additions. Simply cook separately and mix into the finished dish before serving.
- → What garnish works well?
Fresh basil, chopped parsley, and a sprinkle of Parmesan complement the dish’s creamy and savory flavors.