10 Ingredient Baked Feta Pasta (Viral TikTok Recipe)

Introduction

Did you know that a single viral TikTok recipe increased feta cheese sales by over 200% in some grocery stores worldwide? That’s the power of Baked Feta Pasta—a simple yet flavor-packed dish that broke the internet and redefined weeknight dinners.

But here’s the real question: Is the viral baked feta pasta actually worth the hype, or was it just a trend? After testing and optimizing this 10-ingredient version for flavor balance, texture, and nutritional value, I can confidently say—it’s not just viral, it’s brilliant.

This Mediterranean-inspired pasta combines roasted cherry tomatoes, creamy baked feta cheese, olive oil, garlic, and al dente pasta into a luscious, restaurant-quality sauce—all made in one pan. Minimal effort, maximum flavor.

Let’s dive into the ultimate version of the Baked Feta Pasta recipe that’s easy, customizable, and perfectly optimized for busy home cooks.

Ingredients List

This 10 Ingredient Baked Feta Pasta keeps it simple but powerful. Quality matters here.

Core Ingredients

8 oz block feta cheese (full-fat Greek feta preferred)
2 pints cherry tomatoes
3 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
3 cloves garlic, minced
8 oz pasta (penne, rigatoni, or rotini work best)
½ tsp red pepper flakes (optional heat)
½ tsp dried oregano
½ tsp salt
¼ tsp black pepper
Fresh basil leaves (for garnish)

Ingredient Insights & Substitutions

Feta Cheese: Block feta melts creamier than crumbled feta.
Cherry Tomatoes: Their natural sweetness balances feta’s saltiness.
Pasta Type: Short pasta shapes hold the creamy sauce better.
Gluten-Free Option: Use chickpea or brown rice pasta.
Vegan Version: Substitute dairy-free feta alternative.

The beauty of baked feta pasta lies in how roasting intensifies tomato sweetness and softens the cheese into a creamy sauce without heavy cream.

Timing

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 35 minutes
Total Time: 45 minutes

Compared to traditional cream-based pasta sauces that require stovetop monitoring, this one-pan baked feta pasta reduces active cooking time by nearly 40%.

Perfect for weeknights when you want comfort food without the effort.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).

This temperature ensures caramelization of tomatoes while softening the feta.

Step 2: Assemble the Baking Dish

In a medium baking dish:

Add cherry tomatoes
Toss with olive oil, garlic, oregano, salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes

Place the block of feta in the center. Drizzle a little olive oil over it and sprinkle extra seasoning on top.

Pro Tip: Make sure tomatoes surround the feta to prevent burning.

Step 3: Bake Until Roasted

Bake for 30–35 minutes until:

Tomatoes burst and release juices
Feta becomes soft and slightly golden

For extra caramelization, broil for 2–3 minutes at the end.

Step 4: Cook the Pasta

While the feta and tomatoes bake, cook pasta in salted water according to package instructions until al dente.

Reserve ½ cup pasta water before draining.

Why? Starchy pasta water helps emulsify the sauce.

Step 5: Create the Sauce

Remove the baking dish from the oven.

Using a spoon, mash the feta and roasted tomatoes together until creamy and combined.

The heat transforms feta into a rich, tangy sauce.

Step 6: Combine Everything

Add drained pasta directly into the baking dish.

Mix thoroughly, adding reserved pasta water gradually if needed to loosen the sauce.

Finish with fresh basil.

Serve immediately.

Nutritional Information (Per Serving – Approximate)

Calories: 480–520 kcal
Protein: 15g
Carbohydrates: 55g
Fiber: 4g
Fat: 22g
Saturated Fat: 9g
Sodium: 600mg
Vitamin C: 30% DV
Calcium: 20% DV

Because feta is lower in fat than many cream-based cheeses, this viral baked feta pasta is often lighter than Alfredo-style dishes.

Healthier Alternatives for the Recipe

Want to upgrade your baked feta pasta nutritionally?

1. High-Protein Version

Add grilled chicken, shrimp, or chickpeas.

2. Low-Carb Option

Use zucchini noodles or spaghetti squash.

3. Extra Fiber Boost

Mix in spinach, kale, or roasted broccoli.

4. Lower Sodium

Choose reduced-sodium feta and skip added salt.

5. Whole Grain Swap

Use whole wheat pasta for slower-digesting carbs.

These small modifications can improve nutrient density without sacrificing the creamy Mediterranean flavor profile.

Serving Suggestions

This 10 Ingredient Baked Feta Pasta pairs beautifully with:

Garlic bread
Grilled Mediterranean vegetables
Arugula salad with lemon vinaigrette
Roasted chicken or salmon

Hosting tip: Serve in a warm ceramic dish topped with extra basil and cracked pepper for visual appeal.

You can also transform leftovers into:

A pasta salad (served cold)
Stuffed bell peppers
A wrap filling

Common Mistakes to Avoid

1. Using Crumbled Feta

It won’t melt the same way as a solid block.

2. Underbaking the Tomatoes

Tomatoes must burst to release natural sweetness.

3. Skipping Pasta Water

This helps bind the sauce.

4. Overcooking the Pasta

Keep it al dente since it will absorb sauce.

5. Overcrowding the Dish

Tomatoes need space to roast, not steam.

Avoiding these mistakes guarantees creamy, balanced baked feta pasta every time.

Storing Tips for the Recipe

Refrigerate: Store in airtight container up to 4 days.
Reheat: Add a splash of water or olive oil before reheating.
Freezing: Not recommended; feta texture changes.
Meal Prep: Roast tomato-feta mixture ahead of time and refrigerate. Cook pasta fresh when serving.

Flavor often deepens after a day, making leftovers surprisingly delicious.

Conclusion

This 10 Ingredient Baked Feta Pasta proves that viral recipes can truly deliver. With roasted tomatoes, creamy feta, and perfectly coated pasta, it’s an easy, flavorful Mediterranean-inspired meal. Try it tonight, leave your feedback in the comments, and subscribe for more easy viral recipes and cooking tips!

FAQs

Why did Baked Feta Pasta go viral?

Its simplicity, creamy texture, and stunning presentation made it perfect for TikTok. Plus, it requires minimal effort.

Can I make baked feta pasta ahead of time?

Yes, but it’s best served fresh. Reheat gently with added moisture.

What pasta works best?

Short shapes like penne, rotini, or rigatoni hold the sauce better than long noodles.

Can I use different cheese?

Yes. Goat cheese works well, but feta provides signature tanginess.

Is baked feta pasta vegetarian?

Yes, as long as your feta is made without animal rennet.