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Baked Feta Pasta has taken the culinary world by storm, captivating home cooks and food enthusiasts alike with its simplicity and delightful flavors. This dish, which combines creamy feta cheese, sweet roasted cherry tomatoes, and fresh spinach, is a perfect blend of taste and nutrition. Originally popularized on social media, particularly TikTok, Baked Feta Pasta quickly became a viral sensation, and for good reason. With minimal preparation and cooking time, it caters to busy lifestyles while still delivering a gourmet experience. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner or an impressive dish for entertaining, this recipe is sure to satisfy.

Baked Feta Pasta Reinvented

Discover the viral sensation of Baked Feta Pasta with Roasted Cherry Tomatoes and Spinach! This easy-to-make dish combines creamy feta, sweet roasted tomatoes, and fresh spinach for a delightful explosion of flavors. Perfect for busy weeknights or when entertaining, it’s as nutritious as it is delicious. With just a few ingredients and simple steps, you can create a stunning meal that will impress everyone at the table. Dive into a world of creamy, savory goodness!

Ingredients
  

8 oz (225g) uncooked penne pasta

8 oz (225g) block of feta cheese

2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved

3 cups fresh spinach, roughly chopped

4 cloves garlic, minced

1/4 cup extra-virgin olive oil

1 tsp red pepper flakes (adjust to taste)

Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste

1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese

Fresh basil leaves, for garnish

Zest and juice of 1 lemon (optional for added freshness)

Instructions
 

Preheat the Oven: Begin by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C) to ensure it’s hot when you’re ready to bake the dish.

    Prepare the Baking Dish: In a large baking dish (or an oven-safe skillet), combine the halved cherry tomatoes, roughly chopped spinach, and minced garlic. Drizzle the mixture with the extra-virgin olive oil, then season with red pepper flakes, salt, and freshly ground black pepper. Toss everything together thoroughly, ensuring the veggies are well coated with the oil and spices.

      Add the Feta: Create a well in the center of the dish for the feta cheese. Gently place the block of feta in this space, then drizzle a little more olive oil on top and season it with additional salt and pepper.

        Bake the Dish: Transfer the baking dish to the oven and bake for 25-30 minutes. The tomatoes should blister, and the feta should become soft and slightly browned, creating a luscious sauce.

          Cook the Pasta: While the feta and tomatoes are baking, bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Add the penne pasta and cook according to the package instructions until al dente. Once cooked, drain the pasta and set it aside.

            Combine the Ingredients: After the baking time is up, carefully remove the dish from the oven. Using a fork, gently mash the baked feta and stir it with the tomatoes and garlic until it forms a creamy sauce. Add the drained pasta to the dish and mix everything together until the noodles are evenly coated with the sauce.

              Incorporate the Spinach and Season: Fold in the chopped spinach into the pasta mixture, allowing it to wilt slightly from the heat. Taste the dish and adjust the seasoning with more salt, pepper, or red pepper flakes based on your preference.

                Serve the Dish: Use a large spoon to transfer the pasta to serving plates. Generously sprinkle with grated Parmesan cheese, garnish with fresh basil leaves, and, if desired, add a sprinkle of lemon zest and a squeeze of lemon juice for a fresh and zesty finish.

                  Enjoy the Meal: Serve your delicious baked feta pasta immediately while it’s warm and creamy. Enjoy every bite of this flavorful dish!

                    Prep Time, Total Time, Servings:

                      Prep Time: 10 mins | Total Time: 40 mins | Servings: 4