How to Make Baked Feta Pasta (Summer Version)

Ever scrolled through food trends and noticed how some recipes take the internet by storm? That’s exactly what happened with baked feta pasta , a dish that practically broke TikTok in 2021. But today, we’re giving it a warm-weather refresh with this Baked Feta Pasta (Summer Version). Bursting with juicy cherry tomatoes, fragrant basil, and a block of creamy feta that melts into a velvety sauce, this dish is summer comfort food at its finest. Perfect for weeknight dinners or backyard gatherings, this recipe strikes a balance between simplicity and flavor, while remaining light enough for hot summer days.

How to Make Baked Feta Pasta 

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

Ingredients

• 2 pints cherry tomatoes (washed and dried with a collapsible colander)
• 1 block (8 oz) feta cheese
• 3 tablespoons olive oil
• 4 cloves garlic (minced with a garlic press)
• 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
• Salt and freshly cracked black pepper (to taste, ground with a stainless-steel grinder)
• 12 oz pasta of your choice (penne, fusilli, or rigatoni works great)
• 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves (chopped)
• Zest of 1 lemon
• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley (chopped)

Instructions

Step 1: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Place cherry tomatoes in a baking dish and drizzle with olive oil. Sprinkle with salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes. Toss using a silicone spatula to coat evenly.

Step 2: Nestle the feta block in the center of the tomatoes. Bake uncovered for 30 minutes until the tomatoes burst and the feta turns golden around the edges.

Step 3: While baking, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Use a pot strainer to scoop out pasta when done, reserving 1/2 cup of pasta water.

Step 4: Once the feta and tomatoes are done, mash them together with a potato masher or the back of a fork until a creamy sauce forms.

Step 5: Add the cooked pasta to the baking dish. Toss gently using silicone-tipped tongs, adding reserved pasta water as needed for creaminess.

Step 6: Stir in fresh basil, parsley, and lemon zest for a bright summer twist. Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary.

Step 7: Serve immediately with extra basil garnish and a drizzle of olive oil.

Tips & Twists to Try on Your Baked Feta Pasta

• Fold in grilled zucchini, roasted bell peppers, or sautéed spinach to sneak in extra nutrients and add color to the dish.
• For a heartier version, add grilled chicken strips, shrimp, or chickpeas. This turns a side dish into a full, protein-packed meal.
• Stir in a splash of heavy cream, ricotta, or mascarpone right before serving for an ultra-luxurious texture.
• Try whole wheat or gluten-free pasta for a lighter, healthier version that still captures the flavor of summer.
• Add sliced jalapeños or drizzle chili oil over the finished dish for a fiery kick.
• Mix in fresh mint or dill along with basil to brighten the flavor profile and give it a refreshing twist, perfect for hot days.

Health Benefits or Comparison to Other Pasta

The Baked Feta Pasta (Summer Version) is a healthier take compared to the original viral recipe. While still creamy and indulgent, using fresh herbs, olive oil, and summer veggies makes it lighter and nutrient-dense. Tomatoes are rich in lycopene and vitamin C, while olive oil contributes heart-healthy fats. Compared to cream-based pasta sauces, this recipe cuts down on heavy saturated fats and relies on feta for a tangy richness. It’s proof that pasta can be both comforting and nourishing, especially when loaded with seasonal ingredients.

Make Your Own Baked Feta Pasta Today!

There’s no better way to capture summer on a plate than with this easy yet elevated pasta recipe. With its minimal ingredients and big flavors, it’s the kind of meal that impresses without stress. Whether you’re cooking for family or hosting friends, this dish guarantees satisfied smiles and empty plates.

Other Kitchen Tools You Need for This Recipe

To make your cooking smoother, try these other essentials from Zulay Kitchen:

• • Cheese Grater – perfect for sprinkling parmesan or lemon zest.
  • Mixing Bowls – prep your veggies in advance.
  • Nonstick Baking Mats – keep your sheet pans clean and reusable.

Shop these tools and more at Zulay Kitchen to elevate your cooking experience.

Take Your Recipe to the Next Level 

If you really want your summer baked feta pasta to stand out, the secret is in the seasoning. Using high-quality salts and spice blends can completely transform your dish from simple to gourmet. At Zulay Kitchen, we’ve curated collections that pair beautifully with this recipe and give it that extra flavor kick.

• • Italian and French Countryside Spice Blend Collection – Sprinkle a touch of these aromatic blends over your roasted veggies or baked feta to bring out earthy Mediterranean notes that pair perfectly with pasta.
  • Finishing Sea Salts Collection– Add a gourmet flourish at the end by topping your dish with a delicate finishing salt. This enhances the creaminess of the feta while highlighting the freshness of summer tomatoes and herbs.
  • Global Foodie Collection – For adventurous palates, this set offers spice blends inspired by cuisines around the world. A dash of these can take your baked feta pasta in a whole new direction—whether you crave something smoky, zesty, or herbaceous.

Incorporating these premium salts and seasonings will elevate your pasta into a restaurant-quality meal right from your own kitchen. Stock up on these essentials from our premium ingredients shop and explore more ways to add bold, unforgettable flavors to everyday recipes.

Frequently Asked Questions About This Recipe

Can I use a different type of cheese instead of feta?
Yes, but feta is key for its tangy, briny flavor and creamy melt. Goat cheese, ricotta, or even Boursin can work as substitutes if you prefer something milder. Keep in mind that each cheese melts differently, so your sauce texture may vary. For the closest result, use block-style feta packed in brine rather than crumbled. If you want a creamier, less salty version, try combining feta with a spoonful of cream cheese. It’s all about experimenting with textures and flavors until you land on your perfect match.

Can I make baked feta pasta ahead of time?
Yes, but it’s best enjoyed fresh from the oven. If you do prepare it ahead, store the sauce and pasta separately. The feta-tomato mixture can be baked in advance, cooled, and refrigerated for up to two days. When ready to serve, reheat gently on the stove, thinning with a splash of pasta water or cream. Then toss in freshly cooked pasta for best texture. Storing pasta and sauce together often results in soggy noodles, so keep them apart for a better bite.

What type of pasta works best with baked feta pasta?
Short pasta like penne, fusilli, and rigatoni are ideal because they catch the creamy sauce in their grooves. However, you can also use spaghetti or linguine if that’s what you have on hand. Whole grain or gluten-free pasta works well for dietary preferences without losing flavor. In fact, sturdier pasta shapes hold up better for leftovers, too. The key is cooking pasta al dente and reserving a little pasta water to achieve the perfect silky sauce consistency.

Can I add meat or seafood to baked feta pasta?
Absolutely. This summer version works beautifully with grilled shrimp, chicken, or even crispy pancetta. Seafood brings a light, refreshing quality that pairs perfectly with lemon zest and herbs. If you prefer vegetarian, roasted chickpeas add crunch and protein. Just cook your add-ins separately and fold them in at the end to keep the texture right. This way, you elevate the dish from a side or light meal into a filling entrée that’s perfect for entertaining.

How can I make baked feta pasta less salty?
Feta naturally has a salty, tangy profile. To reduce saltiness, choose a block of feta stored in brine rather than pre-crumbled, as it tends to be less salty and creamier. Rinsing the feta block briefly before baking can also help. When seasoning, go light on salt until after you mix everything. Adding extra cherry tomatoes, fresh herbs, or a splash of cream balances flavors too. If you’re salt-sensitive, you can even combine feta with ricotta or cream cheese for a mellower sauce.

What’s the best way to store and reheat leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. For reheating, add a splash of water, milk, or cream to restore creaminess, then warm on the stovetop over medium heat. The microwave works too, but stir halfway through to keep it from drying out. While the pasta won’t be quite as fresh as day one, the flavors often deepen overnight, making it just as satisfying. Avoid freezing, as the cheese texture may turn grainy once thawed.

Is baked feta pasta healthy?
Baked feta pasta can absolutely fit into a balanced diet. Tomatoes provide antioxidants like lycopene, basil adds anti-inflammatory compounds, and olive oil brings heart-healthy fats. Feta, compared to creamier cheeses, is lower in calories and fat while offering calcium and protein. Paired with whole wheat or veggie-based pasta, it’s a nutrient-packed dish. The key is portion control and balance. Serve it with a side salad or roasted veggies, and you have a complete, wholesome meal that doesn’t feel heavy.