This viral baked feta pasta is everything I want in a weeknight dinner: easy, flavorful, and effortlessly elegant. Inspired by the dish that swept TikTok by storm, this version delivers creamy, tangy feta paired with jammy roasted tomatoes and just the right punch of garlic and herbs. It all comes together in one dish, no stovetop sauce-making required, making cleanup a breeze and flavor a certainty.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

I love how fuss-free this recipe is. With just a few pantry staples and one baking dish, I get a pasta dish that feels indulgent but is incredibly simple to make. The roasted cherry tomatoes burst with sweetness, the feta softens into a creamy, salty delight, and the garlic and shallots mellow out into rich, savory notes. I also love how customizable this dish is — I can easily switch out herbs, add veggies, or even change the cheese. Whether I’m cooking for guests or just need a cozy dinner, this baked feta pasta always delivers.

Ingredients

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

• 1 shallot, quartered

• 3 garlic cloves, smashed

• 2 pints cherry or grape tomatoes

• 1/2 cup extra-virgin olive oil, divided

• Kosher salt

• Pinch of crushed red pepper flakes

• 1 (8-oz.) block feta

• 3 fresh thyme sprigs

• 12 oz. short tubular pasta (such as macaroni or cavatappi)

• Zest of 1 lemon (optional)

• Fresh basil leaves, for serving

Directions

1. I start by preheating my oven to 400°F and arranging the rack in the center.

2. In a medium baking dish or ovenproof skillet, I combine the quartered shallot, smashed garlic, and cherry tomatoes with all but 1 tablespoon of the olive oil. I season everything with salt and crushed red pepper flakes, tossing well to coat.

3. I place the block of feta in the center of the dish and drizzle it with the reserved tablespoon of oil. I then scatter the thyme sprigs over the top.

4. I bake the dish for 40 to 45 minutes, until the tomatoes burst and the feta turns golden on top.

5. While the dish bakes, I cook the pasta in boiling salted water until al dente, reserving 1/2 cup of pasta water before draining.

6. Once the feta and tomatoes are ready, I remove the thyme sprigs, then stir in the cooked pasta, the reserved pasta water, and lemon zest (if using) until everything is well combined.

7. I finish with fresh basil leaves and serve immediately.

Servings and Timing

• Yields: 4 servings

• Prep Time: 10 minutes

• Cook Time: 40–45 minutes

• Total Time: 45 minutes

• Calories per Serving: Approximately 758

Variations

I like to treat this recipe as a base for creativity. Sometimes I swap feta with goat cheese or a creamy brie for a milder flavor. When I’m in the mood for spice, I throw in extra red pepper flakes or a few chili peppers. I’ve also added sliced zucchini or mushrooms to the tomato mix before roasting, and they turn out tender and flavorful. Fresh rosemary, oregano, or even a touch of balsamic vinegar can completely change the character of the dish while keeping it just as simple to make.

Storage/Reheating

If I have leftovers, I store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When reheating, I like to add a splash of water or a little olive oil to help loosen the sauce before microwaving or warming on the stovetop over low heat. It actually tastes even better the next day, with all the flavors deepened.

FAQs

How do I keep the feta from drying out?

I always make sure the feta is nestled well among the tomatoes and drizzled with enough olive oil. This helps keep it moist and lets it soften beautifully in the oven.

Can I use crumbled feta instead of a block?

While I prefer a block for presentation and texture, crumbled feta works in a pinch. Just be sure it’s piled together in the center to avoid drying out.

What kind of pasta is best for baked feta pasta?

Short tubular pastas like cavatappi, penne, or macaroni work best. They hold the sauce well and are easy to stir into the baked dish.

Is there a way to make this dish gluten-free?

Absolutely. I simply use my favorite gluten-free pasta and prepare it the same way. The sauce is naturally gluten-free.

Can I make this recipe vegan?

To make it vegan, I use a plant-based feta alternative and check that my pasta is egg-free. The result is still creamy, tangy, and full of flavor.

Conclusion

This baked feta pasta proves that viral trends can absolutely live up to the hype. It’s an uncomplicated recipe with extraordinary results—perfect for busy nights, last-minute guests, or any time I crave a comforting, cheesy pasta dish. Once I’ve made it, it quickly earns a spot in my regular dinner rotation.