TikTok Baked Feta Tomato Pasta Simple and Tasty Meal
If you’re craving a dish that’s as simple to make as it is delicious, you’ll love TikTok’s baked feta tomato pasta. This trendy recipe combines creamy feta, juicy tomatoes, and al dente pasta for a meal you can’t resist. It’s perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or impressing friends. Follow along as I guide you step-by-step to create this flavorful masterpiece that will leave everyone asking for seconds!
Ingredients
List of Ingredients
- 200g pasta of your choice
- 200g feta cheese, block form
- 400g cherry tomatoes, halved
- 4 cloves garlic, finely minced
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil
- Fresh basil leaves, for garnish
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- A pinch of red pepper flakes (optional)
This dish is simple and fun to make. Start with pasta. You can use penne, fusilli, or any pasta you like. The feta cheese adds creaminess. Use a block for the best texture. Cherry tomatoes burst with flavor when baked. They become sweet and soft.
Garlic gives a nice kick. Mince it finely for even flavor. Dried oregano adds a nice herb taste. Olive oil helps everything bake well together. You can sprinkle salt and pepper to taste. A little red pepper adds spice if you like it hot.
Gather these ingredients before you start. This makes cooking smooth and fast. You will love how they blend together in the oven!
Step-by-Step Instructions
Preheat the Oven
First, set your oven to 200°C (400°F). Preheating is key because it helps cook the dish evenly. If you skip this step, the feta and tomatoes won’t cook right.
Assemble Ingredients
Grab a large, oven-safe baking dish. Place the halved cherry tomatoes around the center. Now, put the block of feta cheese right in the middle. This helps the cheese soak up all the flavors.
Season the Mixture
Next, drizzle 1 tablespoon of extra virgin olive oil over the tomatoes and feta. Sprinkle 4 cloves of minced garlic, 1 teaspoon of dried oregano, salt, and pepper on top. Toss the tomatoes gently to mix. Be careful; you don’t want to break them!
Bake the Dish
Now, slide your baking dish into the preheated oven. Bake for about 25-30 minutes. Look for the tomatoes to burst and caramelize. The feta should be golden and soft. This is when it’s ready.
Prepare the Pasta
While the feta and tomatoes bake, fill a large pot with salted water and bring it to a boil. Add 200g of pasta and cook it according to the package instructions until it’s al dente. Once done, drain the pasta but save a little pasta water.
Combine and Serve
When your baking timer goes off, take the dish out of the oven. Use a fork to mash the baked feta and burst tomatoes together. If it seems too thick, add a splash of the reserved pasta water. Mix the cooked pasta into this creamy sauce. Serve it up in bowls and top each dish with fresh basil leaves and a sprinkle of red pepper flakes for a little heat. Enjoy your tasty meal!
Tips & Tricks
Tips for Perfecting the Dish
- Choosing the right pasta: I love using penne or fusilli for this dish. They hold sauce well and mix nicely with the creamy feta and tomatoes. You can also try other pasta types, but keep in mind the texture.
- Adjusting seasoning for personal taste: Taste is key! Start with the basic salt and pepper. Add more if you like it bolder. You can also try fresh herbs or a squeeze of lemon for extra flavor.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Overcooking tomatoes and feta: Watch your baking time closely. If the tomatoes burst too much, they lose their shape. The feta should be soft but not melting away. Aim for 25 to 30 minutes.
- Not reserving pasta water: Always save a cup of pasta water. It helps bring the sauce together. If the dish seems dry, a splash of this starchy water will help make it creamy.
Serving Suggestions
- Best side dishes to pair: A simple green salad with a light vinaigrette is perfect. Garlic bread also complements this dish well. Both add freshness and crunch.
- Ideas for a complete meal: Serve this pasta with grilled chicken or shrimp for protein. You can also add steamed veggies for a colorful and nutritious plate.
Variations
Ingredient Substitutions
You can switch things up by using different cheeses. Goat cheese adds a tangy twist. If you want something creamier, try cream cheese. Both work well with the tomatoes.
You can also add more vegetables to this dish. Spinach or zucchini can brighten it up. Roasted bell peppers add a sweet flavor. Mix and match based on what you like.
Dietary Modifications
If you need a gluten-free option, use gluten-free pasta. Many brands offer great choices. Just check the package for cooking times.
For a vegan version, replace feta with a plant-based cheese. You can also add nutritional yeast for a cheesy taste. This keeps the dish tasty and plant-based.
Flavor Enhancements
To make this dish pop, add spices or herbs. A pinch of thyme or basil can elevate the flavor. You can also use crushed red pepper for some heat.
If you want protein, toss in chicken or shrimp. Cook them separately and mix them in after baking. This adds extra flavor and makes it more filling.
Storage Info
How to Store Leftovers
Store your leftover pasta in an airtight container. Glass or plastic containers work well. You want to keep air out to keep the dish fresh.
For short-term storage, place it in the refrigerator. It can last up to three days there. If you want to keep it longer, freeze it. Just make sure to use a freezer-safe container. It can stay good for up to three months in the freezer.
Reheating Instructions
For reheating, the oven is the best method. Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F). Place the pasta in a baking dish and cover it with foil. Bake for about 20 minutes. This helps keep the creaminess.
You can also reheat in a microwave. Use a microwave-safe bowl and heat it in short bursts. Stir in between to keep it from drying out. If it seems too thick, add a splash of water or olive oil.
Shelf Life
The dish is safe for up to three days in the fridge. After that, it may spoil. Look for signs of spoilage. If it smells sour or has an odd color, it is best to throw it away. Always trust your senses for safety.
FAQs
What type of pasta works best for this recipe?
For this dish, you can use a few pasta types. I recommend penne or fusilli. Both hold sauce well and add a nice texture. Other options include rotini or farfalle. Choose what you enjoy or have on hand.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare this dish ahead. Cook the pasta and bake the feta and tomatoes. Store them separately in the fridge. When ready to eat, mix them and heat in the oven or on the stove. This way, the pasta stays fresh.
Is this dish suitable for freezing?
Yes, this dish is great for freezing. After baking, let it cool completely. Transfer it to a freezer-safe container. When you want to eat it, thaw it overnight in the fridge. Reheat in the oven until warm.
How can I make this recipe spicier?
To add heat, try using more red pepper flakes. Mix them into the tomatoes and feta before baking. You can also add diced fresh chili peppers or a splash of hot sauce when you combine the pasta. Adjust the spice to your taste!
This dish is a simple blend of pasta, feta, and tomatoes. You learned how to bake it to perfection, add personal touches, and store leftovers. Remember, avoid overcooking and choose the right pasta. Experiment with flavors to make it your own. Now, you can create a tasty meal that impresses everyone. Enjoy making this easy and delicious recipe!
![Here’s what you need for a creamy, dreamy mac and cheese: - 1 lb elbow macaroni - 4 cups water - 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, divided - 1 teaspoon garlic powder - 1 teaspoon onion powder - ½ teaspoon smoked paprika - Salt and pepper, to taste - 2 cups sharp cheddar cheese, shredded - 1 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded - ½ cup cream cheese, softened - ½ cup whole milk Gather these ingredients to make your Instant Pot creamy mac and cheese. The elbow macaroni cooks perfectly in the Instant Pot, soaking up all the flavors. The two types of cheese give a rich taste. Cream cheese adds smoothness, while whole milk makes it extra creamy. Each spice, like garlic and paprika, adds a nice touch. Want to make your mac and cheese even better? Try these add-ins: - Cooked bacon for a salty crunch - Steamed broccoli for a healthy twist - Diced tomatoes for freshness - Jalapeños for heat Feel free to mix and match! You can make it just how you like. For the full recipe, check out the detailed cooking steps. Gather all your ingredients. You will need: - 1 lb elbow macaroni - 4 cups water - 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, divided - 1 teaspoon garlic powder - 1 teaspoon onion powder - ½ teaspoon smoked paprika - Salt and pepper, to taste - 2 cups sharp cheddar cheese, shredded - 1 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded - ½ cup cream cheese, softened - ½ cup whole milk Measure everything out before you start. This makes cooking easier and faster. Pour 4 cups of water into your Instant Pot. Add the elbow macaroni, 1 tablespoon of unsalted butter, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, and a pinch of salt. Stir this mix well to coat the pasta. Now, close the lid and set the valve to sealing. Choose the manual cooking option and set the timer to cook on high pressure for 4 minutes. Once the time is up, do a quick release by moving the valve to venting. Open the lid once the steam has escaped. Add the remaining tablespoon of unsalted butter, shredded cheddar cheese, shredded mozzarella cheese, softened cream cheese, and whole milk. Stir everything together with a spatula until it’s creamy. If it’s too thick, add a little more milk for a smoother texture. Season with salt and pepper to your liking. Stir again to mix in the flavors. For the complete recipe, check out the Full Recipe. Enjoy your creamy mac and cheese! To make your mac and cheese super creamy, use a mix of cheeses. I love combining sharp cheddar and mozzarella. The cheddar gives a bold flavor, while mozzarella adds stretchiness. Cream cheese also helps create a rich texture. If it's too thick, add a splash of whole milk. This will help achieve the creamy consistency you want. Here are some great cheese combos: - Sharp cheddar - Mozzarella - Cream cheese - Gruyere - Fontina Mixing these cheeses gives depth and flavor. Try different amounts to find your favorite mix. You can also add a bit of parmesan for a salty kick. Common mistakes can ruin your dish. First, don't overcook the pasta. Set your timer for 4 minutes. Overcooked pasta becomes mushy. Second, be careful when releasing steam. Always use a kitchen towel for safety. Lastly, remember to season well. Taste your mac and cheese before serving. Add more salt and pepper if needed. For more details, check out the Full Recipe. {{image_4}} You can make your mac and cheese heartier by adding protein. Cooked chicken or crispy bacon works great. Simply chop the cooked chicken or crumble the bacon into pieces. Stir it in after mixing the cheese. This adds flavor and makes it a full meal. For a vegan twist, swap the dairy for plant-based ingredients. Use cashew cream or coconut milk in place of whole milk. Replace the cheese with vegan cheese or nutritional yeast for a cheesy taste. This keeps the dish creamy while making it dairy-free. Add extra flavor by mixing in spices and herbs. A dash of cayenne pepper gives it a kick. Fresh herbs like basil or thyme add brightness. Try Italian seasoning for a different twist. You can also add mustard powder for depth. Experiment to find your favorite mix. For the full recipe, check out [Full Recipe]. To store your creamy mac and cheese, let it cool first. Place it in an airtight container. You can keep it in the fridge for up to three days. Make sure it is sealed tightly to keep it fresh. If you want to enjoy it later, consider freezing it. When you want to reheat mac and cheese, use the microwave or stovetop. If using the microwave, place your serving in a bowl. Add a splash of milk to keep it creamy. Heat it in short bursts, stirring in between. For the stovetop, warm it in a pot over low heat. Stir well and add milk if needed. This helps it regain its creamy texture. To freeze mac and cheese, use an airtight container or freezer bag. Make sure it is cool before you put it in. It can last in the freezer for up to three months. When you are ready to eat it, thaw it overnight in the fridge. Then, reheat using one of the methods above. This way, you can enjoy that yummy flavor again! For the full recipe, check the details above. Yes, you can use gluten-free pasta in this recipe. Just choose your favorite brand. Cook times may vary slightly, so check the package instructions. Gluten-free pasta can be just as creamy and tasty as regular pasta. To spice up your mac and cheese, add cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes. Start with a small amount, like 1/4 teaspoon, and taste as you go. You can also mix in some diced jalapeños for a fresh kick. Adjust it based on your spice level preference. Any Instant Pot model works well for this creamy mac and cheese. I recommend using a model with at least a 6-quart capacity. This size gives enough room for the pasta and water. The Instant Pot Duo or Ultra are popular choices, offering great features for beginners and pros alike. For the full recipe, check the link. This blog has shared everything you need for perfect mac and cheese in your Instant Pot. We covered the needed ingredients, cooking steps, and tips to avoid mistakes. You learned how to make it creamy and flavorful, even with variations. Remember to store leftovers properly for later. Keep experimenting with flavors and ingredients to find what you enjoy. Each recipe can be a new adventure. Enjoy your cooking journey!](https://dishtreats.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/aef5e05b-bf60-4c96-8d62-11668510c0c6-768x768.webp)
