Baked Feta Pasta (Tik Tok Pasta) Recipe

If you’ve spent any time scrolling through social media lately, you’ve probably come across the viral sensation that is the Baked Feta Pasta (Tik Tok Pasta) Recipe. This dish combines the creamy tang of baked feta cheese with sweet, roasted cherry tomatoes and al dente pasta, creating a simple yet incredibly flavorful meal. With minimal ingredients and an easy baking method, it’s a game-changer you’ll want to make again and again. Let me walk you through why this recipe has taken kitchens by storm and how you can master it at home.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The beauty of the Baked Feta Pasta (Tik Tok Pasta) Recipe is in its simplicity. Each ingredient is carefully chosen to build layers of flavor, texture, and color that complement each other perfectly. From the tangy feta to the juicy cherry tomatoes and fragrant basil, this list is straightforward but essential.

• 8 ounce feta cheese block: A whole block retains moisture and bakes evenly to create that creamy center every bite craves.
• 1½ pound cherry tomatoes: These burst during baking and release natural sweetness, balancing the tartness of the feta.
• 4 cloves garlic (smashed): Garlic infuses the dish with subtle savory depth without overpowering the fresher notes.
• ½ cup extra virgin olive oil: Adds richness and helps roast the tomatoes and cheese to perfection.
• Salt and pepper (to taste): Essential seasonings that bring all the flavors to life.
• ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes: A little heat wakes up the palate and cuts through the creaminess.
• 10 ounce pasta (such as penne or rigatoni): These sturdy shapes hold onto the sauce like a dream.
• ¼ cup fresh basil leaves: Brightens the dish with herbal freshness and lovely color contrast.

How to Make Baked Feta Pasta (Tik Tok Pasta) Recipe

Step 1: Prep the oven and assemble

Start by preheating your oven to 400°F. In a 9×13-inch casserole dish, place the block of feta cheese right in the center. Surround it with your cherry tomatoes and scatter the smashed garlic cloves evenly. Drizzle the entire dish with extra virgin olive oil to ensure everything roasts beautifully.

Step 2: Season and bake until bursting

Season the tomatoes and feta generously with salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes. Pop the dish into the oven and bake for 30 minutes, watching as the cherry tomatoes burst open and the feta softens into a luscious, spreadable texture. After 30 minutes, crank the heat to 450°F and bake for an additional 10 to 15 minutes, allowing the feta to develop a gorgeous golden crust on top.

Step 3: Cook the pasta

While your feta and tomatoes are baking, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil over high heat. Cook your pasta to al dente—usually about 13 minutes, but check the package for exact timing. Reserve ½ to 1 cup of the pasta water before draining; this starchy water will help marry the sauce and pasta flawlessly.

Step 4: Combine and toss

When the feta and tomatoes are out of the oven, use a fork to mash them together with the garlic until they form a rich, creamy sauce. Add the hot pasta and fresh basil leaves right into the casserole dish. Toss everything gently but thoroughly so each piece of pasta is coated in that irresistible sauce. If the sauce feels too thick, add the reserved pasta water a little at a time until you reach the perfect consistency. Season once more with salt and pepper to taste.

Step 5: Serve immediately

Serve this heavenly Baked Feta Pasta (Tik Tok Pasta) Recipe piping hot, garnished with extra basil leaves and a sprinkling of freshly grated Parmesan if you’re feeling decadent. The contrast of warm feta, sweet tomatoes, and aromatic herbs is truly unbeatable fresh from the oven.

How to Serve Baked Feta Pasta (Tik Tok Pasta) Recipe

Garnishes

Fresh garnishes can elevate this simple dish into a showstopper. Sprinkle torn basil leaves liberally on top for color and a burst of herbal fragrance. For more depth, a dusting of freshly cracked black pepper or a pinch of red pepper flakes adds a nice kick. If you like a hint of nuttiness, shaved Parmesan or a drizzle of good quality olive oil is a lovely finishing touch.

Side Dishes

This pasta is rich and flavorful enough to stand on its own, but pairing it with crisp sides can create a well-rounded meal. A fresh green salad with lemon vinaigrette or roasted vegetables complements the creamy and tangy sauce beautifully. For something heartier, serve alongside garlic bread or crusty sourdough to mop up every last bit of sauce.

Creative Ways to Present

Want to impress guests? Plate the pasta in shallow bowls to showcase the colorful burst tomatoes and golden feta topping. Adding a few whole cherry tomatoes and basil sprigs around the edges adds an artistic touch. For a party, serve the baked feta and tomatoes family-style in the casserole dish, allowing everyone to toss their own pasta for a fun, interactive experience.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you have any leftovers of this fabulous Baked Feta Pasta (Tik Tok Pasta) Recipe, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. The flavors actually deepen overnight, making the next day’s meal even more satisfying. Eat within 3 days for the best taste and texture.

Freezing

While fresh is always best, you can freeze baked feta pasta if needed. Place the cooled pasta in a freezer-safe container or heavy-duty bag, leaving some space for expansion. Frozen, it will keep well for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Reheating

To reheat, warm the pasta gently on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of water or olive oil to loosen the sauce if it has thickened. Microwaving works too—cover the dish loosely and heat in short increments, stirring occasionally to ensure even warmth without drying out the sauce.

FAQs

Can I use different types of pasta for this recipe?

Absolutely! While penne or rigatoni work best because their ridges hold the sauce well, feel free to experiment with fusilli, farfalle, or even spaghetti depending on what you have. Just make sure to cook it al dente so it doesn’t get mushy when tossed with the hot sauce.

Is it necessary to use a block of feta, or can I use crumbled feta?

Using a block of feta is key for this recipe because it bakes evenly and creates that creamy, spreadable texture. Crumbled feta won’t melt the same way and you’ll miss out on the luscious sauce that forms during baking.

Can I make this recipe vegan or dairy-free?

You can try substituting the feta with a plant-based cheese alternative, and olive oil remains the same. However, the creamy tang that defines this dish comes from feta, so the flavor profile will be different. Adding nutritional yeast or a vegan cheese that melts well can help approximate the experience.

How spicy is the dish with red pepper flakes?

The red pepper flakes add a gentle, warm heat that brightens the dish without overwhelming the flavors. You can easily adjust the amount or omit them if you prefer a milder meal.

Can I add other vegetables or proteins to the Baked Feta Pasta (Tik Tok Pasta) Recipe?

Definitely! Roasted vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, or mushrooms can be added alongside the tomatoes before baking. For protein, grilled chicken, shrimp, or crispy tofu can be tossed in after baking for a more substantial dinner.

Final Thoughts

This Baked Feta Pasta (Tik Tok Pasta) Recipe is a shining example of how simple ingredients prepared with love can create a dish that’s both comforting and exciting. It’s perfect for busy weeknights or casual weekend meals when you want something impressive without any fuss. I encourage you to try this recipe soon — I promise, it will become a favorite in your kitchen just like it has in mine!

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