Introduction
The Baked Feta Pasta, affectionately nicknamed “The TikTok Pasta,” is arguably the most successful viral recipe of the last decade. Originating in Finland as Uunifetapasta, this dish revolutionized weeknight dinners by proving that a rich, creamy sauce doesn’t require heavy cream. The magic lies in baking a block of salty feta cheese alongside sweet cherry tomatoes and garlic until they soften and melt into a luscious, tangy sauce. It’s incredibly simple, requires minimal chopping, and delivers maximum flavor, making it a perfect example of effortless gourmet cooking.
Ingredients
- 1 block (200 g / 7 oz) Feta cheese, preferably packed in brine
- 600 g (1.3 lbs) Cherry or Grape tomatoes
- 4 cloves Garlic, peeled and left whole
- 80 ml (1/3 cup) Extra Virgin Olive Oil, divided
- 400 g (14 oz) Short pasta (Penne, Rigatoni, or Orecchiette)
- 1 teaspoon Dried Oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon Red Pepper Flakes (optional, for heat)
- Salt and Freshly Ground Black Pepper, to taste
- Fresh Basil leaves, for garnish
Step-by-step Preparation
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**Preheat and Assemble:** Preheat your oven to 200°C (400°F). In a medium-sized baking dish (approx. 9×13 inches), spread the cherry tomatoes and whole garlic cloves. Drizzle 60 ml (1/4 cup) of the olive oil over the tomatoes. Season liberally with salt, pepper, oregano, and red pepper flakes (if using).
*Tip: Ensure the tomatoes are in a single layer for even roasting. -
**Bake the Feta:** Create a space in the center of the tomatoes and place the block of feta cheese. Drizzle the remaining 20 ml (1 tablespoon) of olive oil directly over the feta. Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for 30 to 35 minutes, or until the tomatoes have burst and caramelized, and the feta is soft, slightly browned, and bubbling.
*Tip: For extra depth of flavor, broil the dish for the last 2 minutes to achieve a crispier top on the feta. - **Cook the Pasta:** While the feta is baking, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the pasta according to package directions until it is al dente (usually 8-10 minutes). Before draining, reserve about 120 ml (1/2 cup) of the starchy pasta water.
- **Mix and Serve:** Carefully remove the baking dish from the oven. Using a fork or spatula, gently crush the roasted tomatoes and mash the soft feta cheese together to form a smooth, creamy sauce. Stir well to incorporate the garlic and olive oil. Add the drained pasta to the sauce and toss thoroughly. If the sauce seems too thick, add reserved pasta water, one tablespoon at a time, until the desired consistency is reached. Serve immediately, garnished with fresh basil leaves.
Nutritional Information
Baked Feta Pasta is a surprisingly balanced meal, leaning heavily on the principles of the Mediterranean diet. Per serving (yields 4 servings), it typically contains approximately 450–550 calories, depending on the exact amount of olive oil used. It is rich in healthy monounsaturated fats from the olive oil, antioxidants (Lycopene) from the roasted tomatoes, and provides a significant source of protein from the feta cheese. This dish is naturally vegetarian and a good source of fiber when whole-wheat pasta is used.
Storage
Leftover Baked Feta Pasta should be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 to 4 days. When reheating, the sauce will thicken considerably. To restore its creamy texture, reheat the pasta on the stovetop over medium-low heat, adding a splash of water, milk, or vegetable broth until the sauce loosens and emulsifies again. Avoid reheating in the microwave, as this can make the feta oily and dry out the pasta.
Conclusion
This simple, baked dish is a testament to the power of quality ingredients. While delicious on its own, it offers fantastic flexibility. For a non-vegetarian option, stir in grilled chicken or shrimp at the end. For added color and nutrition, roasted bell peppers or a handful of fresh spinach can be tossed in with the pasta. Serve it alongside a fresh green salad dressed with balsamic vinaigrette for a complete and satisfying meal that is sure to become a regular fixture in your weeknight rotation.