10 Ingredient Baked Feta Pasta (Viral TikTok Recipe)

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

I enjoy this recipe because it practically cooks itself in the oven. The tomatoes and feta melt together into a naturally creamy sauce without needing complicated steps or extra ingredients. I also like how flexible it is since I can use different pasta shapes or add extra vegetables. It’s perfect for busy days when I want a flavorful meal with very little cleanup.

Ingredients

(Here’s a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• 8 ounces orecchiette pasta
• 2 pints cherry tomatoes
• 8 ounce block feta cheese
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 teaspoon oregano
• Zest of 1/2 lemon
• 1/4 cup extra-virgin olive oil
• 1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped (plus more for serving)
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1/4 cup pasta water

Directions

1. I start by preheating the oven to 400°F.
2. In a baking dish, I add the cherry tomatoes and drizzle them with olive oil. I season them with salt, pepper, garlic, oregano, and lemon zest, then toss everything together so the tomatoes are well coated.
3. I place the block of feta cheese in the center of the dish and drizzle it lightly with olive oil and a bit of pepper.
4. I bake everything for 35–40 minutes until the tomatoes burst and the feta becomes soft and creamy.
5. While the sauce bakes, I cook the pasta according to package instructions. Before draining, I reserve about 1/4 cup of pasta water.
6. Once the baked feta and tomatoes are ready, I remove the dish from the oven and add the chopped basil.
7. I stir everything together until it becomes a creamy sauce, then mix in the cooked pasta and a splash of reserved pasta water to loosen it.
8. Finally, I serve it warm and garnish with extra fresh basil on top.

Servings and timing

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Total Time: 40 minutes
• Servings: 4

Variations

• I sometimes add spinach or arugula at the end for extra greens.
• I like using penne or rigatoni instead of orecchiette for a different texture.
• I occasionally add grilled chicken or shrimp for extra protein.
• When I want more heat, I sprinkle red pepper flakes before baking.
• I also enjoy adding olives or roasted red peppers for a Mediterranean twist.

storage/reheating

I store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, I warm it in a skillet over low heat with a splash of water or olive oil to bring the sauce back to life. I can also microwave it in short intervals, stirring in between. I find the flavor actually deepens after sitting overnight.

FAQs

Can I use crumbled feta instead of a block?

I can use crumbled feta, but I prefer a block because it melts more smoothly and creates a creamier sauce.

Why do the tomatoes need to roast?

I find roasting helps the tomatoes burst and release their natural sweetness, which forms the base of the sauce.

Can I use other types of cheese?

I sometimes experiment with goat cheese, but feta gives the most authentic flavor for this recipe.

What pasta works best for baked feta pasta?

I like using short pasta shapes like orecchiette, penne, or rigatoni because they hold the sauce well.

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

I prefer making it fresh, but I can prep the tomato and feta bake ahead and cook the pasta right before serving.

Conclusion

I always enjoy making this baked feta pasta because it is simple, comforting, and incredibly flavorful with very little effort. The roasted tomatoes and creamy feta create a rich sauce that feels both fresh and indulgent. Whether I make it for a quick dinner or a casual gathering, it always turns out delicious and satisfying.

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