Save A vibrant Mediterranean-inspired pasta dish featuring creamy baked feta, sweet cherry tomatoes, and briny olives, all tossed with al dente pasta for a simple yet irresistible meal.
This cozy chicken stew was an instant favorite at family dinners, bringing everyone together around the table.
Ingredients
- Feta cheese block: 200 g
- Cherry tomatoes: 500 g, halved
- Garlic: 2 cloves, minced
- Short pasta: 300 g (e.g., penne, fusilli, or rigatoni)
- Kalamata olives: 100 g, pitted and halved
- Extra-virgin olive oil: 2 tbsp
- Dried oregano: 1 tsp
- Crushed red pepper flakes: 1/2 tsp (optional)
- Fresh basil leaves: to serve
- Salt and black pepper: to taste
Instructions
- Preheat oven:
- Preheat the oven to 200°C (400°F)
- Arrange ingredients:
- Place the feta block in the center of a baking dish Surround it with cherry tomatoes and olives
- Season:
- Drizzle everything with olive oil Sprinkle with minced garlic oregano and crushed red pepper flakes if using Season with salt and pepper
- Bake:
- Bake for 25 30 minutes until the tomatoes burst and the feta is golden and soft
- Cook pasta:
- Meanwhile cook the pasta in a large pot of salted boiling water according to package instructions until al dente Reserve 1/2 cup pasta cooking water then drain
- Mash feta and tomatoes:
- Remove the baking dish from the oven Use a fork to mash the feta and tomatoes together mixing well to create a creamy sauce
- Toss pasta:
- Add the cooked pasta to the baking dish tossing to coat If needed add reserved pasta water a little at a time for a silkier sauce
- Garnish and serve:
- Garnish with fresh basil leaves and serve immediately
Save This recipe always brings a warm family moment as everyone digs in together enjoying the burst of Mediterranean flavors and creamy textures.
Notes
Use a gluten-free pasta or add extra vegetables like spinach or arugula for a more nutritious meal
Required Tools
Baking dish large pot colander mixing spoon or fork chef's knife and cutting board
Allergen Information
Contains milk (feta cheese) and wheat (pasta unless gluten-free variety is used) Check olives for nut contamination if pre-pitted Always verify ingredient labels to ensure allergy safety
Save 
This delightful baked feta pasta is quick to prepare and delivers rich flavors making it a perfect weeknight dinner.
Recipe FAQs
- → Can I use a different type of pasta?
Yes, short pasta shapes like penne, fusilli, or rigatoni work best to hold the creamy sauce, but any preferred shape can be used.
- → How do I keep the feta from drying out during baking?
Placing the feta in the center surrounded by tomatoes and olives and drizzling olive oil helps retain moisture, resulting in a soft and creamy texture.
- → Can I add greens to this dish?
Adding baby spinach or arugula after mixing adds freshness and color without overpowering the main flavors.
- → What can I serve with this baked feta dish?
A crisp Sauvignon Blanc or a dry rosé pairs well, balancing the salty and tangy flavors of the dish.
- → Is there a way to make this gluten-free?
Substitute the pasta with a gluten-free variety to accommodate dietary restrictions while keeping the same delicious taste.